Job Description
**Location:**
Ocate, NM, USA
**Who We Are:**
Nestled in the stunning Sangre de Cristo Region of Northern New Mexico, our family-owned working ranch has been dedicated to wildlife management for over thirty years. We offer retreat facilities and all-inclusive services for hunting elk, deer, antelope, and bear, with a strong commitment to sustainable ranching, ethical hunting, and thoughtful conservation.
Our expansive natural habitat spans over 37,000 acres, blending private and State Trust lands in the majestic Rocky Mountains. Beyond the ranch's breathtaking beauty, we support our community through various activities such as cattle ranching, hunting, forestry, lumber milling, lodge and room rentals, retreats, and camping.
We are a community that cherishes remote living in harmony with nature and each other. Our core values include Humility, Hospitality, Honesty, and Happiness. As we expand our team, we seek individuals who share these values and are positive, hard-working, and collaborative.
**Position Summary:**
As the Seasonal Cook, your primary role is to deliver high-quality meals and exceptional dining experiences for our guests, hunters, and staff. During the hunting season and other seasonal retreats, you will be responsible for meal preparation, food ordering, and ensuring a positive guest experience. When not engaged in cooking, you may assist with other customer service duties, such as welcoming guests.
**Detailed Operation:**
From September to the end of January, we operate a small, quality hunting lodge, hosting 4-6 hunters and their guides (2-6), along with occasional family and friends. Groups can range from 6 to 16 people, with an average of about 12 per group. We serve brunch and dinner, with a self-serve continental breakfast and a mid-day snack. Guides assist with serving and cleanup, fostering a community spirit.
Your responsibilities include creating menus, shopping, cooking, and serving meals. Guides and staff will assist as needed, ensuring a smooth operation. Your day typically involves cleaning up after breakfast, preparing and serving brunch around 10:30 am, and prepping for dinner to be served around 8:00 pm (timing varies by season). You'll take a break between 1:00 pm and 5:00 pm and return to cook and serve dinner.
Compensation is primarily tip-based, ranging from $1,000 to $2,000 per 5-day hunt. We host 3 to 4 hunts a month, except for January cow hunts, which we host 5. Base salary is $2,000 a month, with quality lodging, utilities, and high-speed internet provided. Including salary and tips, you can expect to earn around $6,000 total a month, with potential for more based on performance.
**Key Responsibilities:**
- Plan and prepare menus, considering dietary preferences, allergies, and special requests.
- Order and purchase food supplies, ingredients, and kitchen equipment as needed.
- Ensure proper storage, handling, and preparation of food items to maintain quality and safety standards.
- Maintain cleanliness and organization of the kitchen and dining areas, adhering to health and sanitation regulations.
- Coordinate meal service timing to ensure timely delivery of meals.
- Ensure food quality and presentation, making adjustments as necessary.
- Provide exceptional guest experiences with friendly, attentive, and efficient service.
- Anticipate and fulfill guest needs and preferences, ensuring their comfort and satisfaction.
- Collaborate with other staff members, including hunt guides, to ensure smooth meal service.
- Communicate effectively with ranch management and staff to coordinate schedules, menus, and special events.
**Qualifications:**
- Proven experience as a cook or chef in a restaurant, lodge, or similar hospitality setting (preferred but not required).
- Knowledge of cooking techniques, recipes, and menu planning.
- Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment.
- Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.
**Physical Requirements:**
- Ability to stand for extended periods and lift and carry heavy objects (up to 50 pounds).
- Comfort working in a kitchen environment with exposure to heat, steam, and noise.
**Living On the Ranch:**
Living on the ranch is a unique privilege! As part of our team, you'll enjoy:
- Year-round quality housing & utilities, including high-speed internet.
- Food provided during hunts you are guiding or assisting with.
- Access to wilderness for personal recreation, including mountain biking, hiking, and camping.
Please note that we operate as a drug-free/smoke-free workplace. Smoking is not allowed on the ranch property. While we have vehicles for ranch use, employees must have their own personal vehicle for travel to the local town for personal needs.
**Disclaimer:**
The above job description outlines the general nature and level of work performed. It is not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required for the position. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and perform other job-related duties as requested by their supervisor in compliance with Federal and State Laws.
All job requirements are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities. Some requirements may exclude individuals who pose a direct threat or significant risk to the health and safety of themselves or other employees. Requirements represent minimum levels of knowledge, skills, and/or abilities. To perform this job successfully, the employee must possess the abilities or aptitudes to perform each duty proficiently. Continued employment remains on an "at-will" basis.
Employment Type: Full-Time
Salary: $ 41,000.00 65,000.00 Per Year
Job Tags
Holiday work, Full time, Seasonal work, Local area, Remote job, Weekend work, Afternoon shift,