Looking for a meaningful summer role supporting kids’ health and wellbeing? Working as a Food Specialist at a summer camp in the U.S. could be a great fit.
Food Specialists play an important role in creating a safe, inclusive, and supportive dining experience for campers and staff. From daily meal prep to managing dietary needs, you’ll help ensure everyone is well-nourished and cared for throughout the summer.
This role is ideal for someone with a genuine interest in nutrition and working with children. Experience with food preparation, dietary requirements, and food safety is especially valuable.
In this role, you’ll support the nutritional needs of the entire camp community by:
- Preparing and serving balanced, nutritious meals
- Supporting campers with dietary needs, including allergies, gluten sensitivities, and vegetarian diets
- Reading and managing food labels to ensure safety
- Maintaining clean, organized kitchen and dining spaces
- Following food safety and hygiene standards
- Assisting with menu planning and meal coordination
- Working closely with camp staff to support camper wellbeing
- Creating a positive and welcoming dining environment
Food Specialists need to be organized, attentive, and confident working in a fast-paced kitchen environment. Just as importantly, they should be friendly and approachable, helping create a positive experience for campers at every meal. Having experience working with children or in community settings is also a big plus!
Typical Summer Camp Food Specialist Job Requirements
- Background in nutrition and experience in food preparation, catering, or kitchen environments
- Knowledge of dietary needs, allergens, and food safety practices
- Food hygiene or food safety certification (preferred but not always required)
- Ability to read and manage ingredient labels for allergen awareness
- Strong organizational and multitasking skills
- Ability to work in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment
- Flexible attitude and willingness to support the wider camp team
- Friendly, patient, and community-focused mindset
- Experience working with children or young people (preferred)
- Ability to pass a background check according to camp policies and local laws
Camp Food Specialist Salary
Salaries depend on credentials and experience and vary from one camp to the next. However, most camps provide food and housing during the summer as part of their compensation package.
Typical Camp Food Specialist Job Benefits and Information
- Contracts typically begin in early to mid-June (before campers arrive)
- Positions usually run through mid to late August
- Housing and meals are often included
- Opportunity to work in a supportive, community-focused environment
- Gain valuable hands-on experience in nutrition, food service, and working with children
Quick Apply
Summer Camp Food Specialist / Nutritionist Positions
Fill out the short application below to submit your resume to our summer camp partners!
