Assistant Cook
Title: Assistant Cook
Location: Big Cove Camp, Thorburn, NS
Position Status: Full-Time, Temporary
Start Date: June 2026
Compensation: $650+ per week
There is potential inside all of us – we all have it in us to shine.
Every charity exists to help solve a problem – our charity exists to help solve many problems, from childcare shortages, social isolation, mental health issues, access to wellness, and more. Today, our network is spread across 100+ program locations in HRM and the province, meeting the most urgent needs of our communities in mental health supports, accessible childcare, supporting an increasing immigrant population, safe spaces for youth to grow and lead, helping to navigate a precarious labour market, delivering wellness programming for all, and creating community for isolated older adults.
We give people the tools, encouragement, and safe space to discover their inner strength. When they know someone’s in their corner, with unconditional support, they realize they can do more than they thought possible. It’s your support, expertise, and guidance that helps people ignite their full potential and shape our neighborhoods into vibrant and healthy communities.
With us at their side, they can Shine On.
About the role:
The Assistant Cook works alongside the Food Services Manager for the summer. They are responsible to assist with food preparation and serving to all campers, providing each camper with a positive and nutritious camping experience. Additional duties require cleaning and organizing of the kitchen supplies, equipment, and all meal area(s). Accommodations are available on site throughout the length of the contract however it is not required for the Assistant Cook to reside at camp.
In this role, you will:
Food Preparation & Service
- Assist the Food Services Manager with daily meal preparation for campers and staff.
- Help prepare nutritious, age-appropriate meals and snacks following camp menus and dietary guidelines.
- Support the setup, serving, and cleanup of all meals in an efficient and timely manner.
- Ensure food is presented in a clean, organized, and welcoming manner.
Kitchen Operations & Safety
- Maintain a clean, sanitary, and well-organized kitchen environment at all times.
- Follow all food safety, handling, and storage procedures in accordance with YMCA and Public Health standards.
- Assist with washing dishes, pots, pans, utensils, and food-service equipment.
- Monitor kitchen equipment and report any repairs or safety concerns to the Food Services Manager.
Organization & Inventory
- Help organize dry storage, refrigerators, freezers, and service areas.
- Assist with receiving, unpacking, and storing food deliveries.
- Track and rotate stock, ensuring ingredients are fresh and properly labeled.
Teamwork & Camper Support
- Work collaboratively with the Food Services Manager and other staff to ensure all meals run smoothly.
- Support special dietary accommodations by preparing alternative meals as directed.
- Contribute to providing a positive, welcoming dining experience for all campers and staff.
Additional Duties
- Participate in routine cleaning of dining hall and kitchen spaces, including floors, surfaces, and waste disposal.
- Help maintain overall camp cleanliness and organization as needed.
- Optional: reside on-site during the contract term (accommodations provided but not required).
Education and skills qualifications:
- 19 Years of age by December 31, 2026
- Food Handlers Certification
- Previous experience with kitchen/food service work an asset
- Strong attention to detail and safety oriented mindset
- Strong verbal and written communication skills
- Minimum qualifications: Standard First Aid, Bronze Cross and CPR-C, WHIMIS
- Strong work ethic
- Positive team-oriented attitude
- Good judgement
- Patience with children and an interest in their growth and development
To apply:
Please apply online at https://ymcahfx.ca/workwithus/.
Please note that all successful candidates are required to provide:
- A Criminal Record Check, Vulnerable Sector Check, and Child Abuse Register Check (less than 6 months old), if 18 years of age or older
- A valid First Aid and CPR Training
Please note that background checks are reviewed on an individual basis – offenses, if any, are based on role and Child Safeguarding requirements, and may not eliminate candidates from employment at our YMCA.
At the YMCA, we are committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace where every team member feels valued, respected, and empowered to bring their full, authentic self to work. We believe that a variety of perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences enrich our organization, enabling us to better serve our community and achieve our mission. As an equal opportunity employer, we welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, including Black, Indigenous, People of Colour, racially diverse, 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals, gender-diverse people, people with diverse abilities, members of ethnic minorities and faith groups, foreign-born residents, and veterans to apply.
If you require accommodation during the hiring process, please inform us in advance to arrange reasonable and appropriate accommodation.