Lead Cook

JobsCloseBy Editorial Insights

Lead Cook at Camp Manyung with YMCA Victoria is a full‑time, on‑site role in Mount Eliza, where you are the heartbeat of the kitchen, feeding campers and guiding kitchen assistants with warmth. You will nourish diverse dietary needs, support the team, and bring homemade touches through baking and pastry while upholding food safety and YMCA values. Shifts span 7am to 11am, 7am to 2pm, and 4:15pm to 7:15pm, rotating with group requirements. The ideal candidate holds a current Food Safety Supervisors Certificate, strong leadership and organizational skills, and a flexible, collaborative approach. To apply, tailor your CV to camp or high‑volume cooking, highlight inclusive menus, and confirm readiness for police and Working with Children checks and a pre‑employment medical, plus a demonstrated passion for youth and community impact.

About the Role

As our Lead Cook at Camp Manyung, you will be the heart of our kitchen, ensuring every camper is fueled for their camp adventures. You will lead by example, supporting our kitchen assistants and ensuring that every meal is prepared with care and served with a smile.

Key responsibilities include:

• Nourishing campers: Preparing and providing delicious, nutritious food for hungry campers, including coordinating special dietary needs so everyone feels included.
• Team leadership: Guiding and supporting kitchen assistants through their daily duties, fostering a positive and collaborative kitchen environment.
• Culinary variety: Undertaking general cooking duties, including baking and pastry cooking, to add that extra touch of homemade care.
• Safety and standards: Applying best practices outlined in our food safety program and ensuring compliance with local government requirements.
• Living our values: Upholding the values of the YMCA in every interaction, ensuring our kitchen is a safe and welcoming space.

Standard shifts are generally; Monday - Sunday depending on the group requirements

• 7am-11am
• 7am-2pm
• 4:15pm-7:15pm

About You

We are looking for a cook who is passionate about food and people. You are a natural leader with a warm approach, capable of building strong, positive relationships with campers, colleagues, and stakeholders.

What you bring to the table:

• Qualifications: You hold a current Food Safety Supervisors Certificate.
• Leadership skills: You have strong interpersonal skills and can lead a team with empathy and clarity.
• Organisational skills: You are well-organised and committed to delivering excellent customer service.
• Compliance knowledge: You have the ability to apply best practices in food safety and follow policies and procedures effectively.
• Flexibility: You are looking for a role that offers flexibility and balance in your workplace.

What's in it for you?

Join a team where your culinary skills make a real difference to the experiences of young people.

• Flexible work: Enjoy flexible working and rostering arrangements that suit your lifestyle.
• Career growth: Access opportunities for career development and learn valuable leadership skills within a supportive organisation.
• Community impact: Know that your work directly supports programs that inspire and empower young people.
• Great perks: Access a range of benefits designed to support your wellbeing.

About Camp Manyung

Camp Manyung is a recreation camp located in Mt Eliza on the beautiful Mornington Peninsula, and managed by YMCA Camps. Catering to schools and groups year-round, the team at Camp Manyung run a variety of programs and activities to suit every group, from snorkeling and kayaking to archery and raft building. Featuring a state-of-the-art recreation centre, flexible and accessible accommodation and picturesque outdoor areas, Camp Manyung is the perfect place to explore the great outdoors.

At the Y, we believe in the power of young people and the communities that support them. We are a fearless and creative organisation, dedicated to championing the value of young people. Our culture is one of heroism and nurturing, where we stand up for our community and support each other with compassion. By joining us, you are becoming part of a movement that fosters belonging and drives positive social change.

Apply Now

If you are ready to venture into the bush, connect with nature, and make an impact through the power of good food, we’d love to hear from you – “APPLY” now!

This position is subject to satisfactory Police Check, Working with Children Check and a pre-employment medical assessment prior to commencement. Pre-employment checks are not used by the Y to prevent any applicant from applying for this position. Each application will be considered on its merits.