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Summer Menu Planning Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Program Cook

Shelton, WA ยท On-site

$16.50 - $20.75/hr

The Summer Recreation Cook is responsible for the Summer Recreation Program foodservice operations including food preparation, following the planned menu; shopping for kitchen supplies and food as ...

Program Cook

Shelton, WA ยท On-site

$16.50 - $20.75/hr

The Summer Recreation Cook is responsible for the Summer Recreation Program foodservice operations including food preparation, following the planned menu; shopping for kitchen supplies and food as ...

Cooks Assistant

Shelton, WA ยท On-site

$17.35/hr

The Summer Rec. Program Cook's Assistant is responsible for assisting the Summer Rec Program Cook in foodservice operations - including food preparation, following the planned menu; acquiring kitchen ...

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Summer Menu Planning information

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$56K

$103.2K

$157K

How much do summer menu planning jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for summer menu planning in the United States is $103,218.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,500.00 and $116,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Summer Menu Planner, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Summer Menu Planner, you need expertise in nutrition, meal planning, and seasonal food selection, often supported by a background in culinary arts or dietetics. Proficiency with menu planning software, recipe databases, and inventory management systems is typically required. Creativity, attention to detail, and strong organizational skills are standout soft skills for this position. These abilities ensure the creation of appealing, balanced menus that meet dietary needs and maximize the use of fresh, seasonal ingredients.

What are some common challenges in summer menu planning and how can they be addressed?

One of the main challenges in summer menu planning is accommodating seasonal ingredient availability while ensuring the menu remains fresh and appealing. Planners often need to consider dietary preferences, food safety in warmer temperatures, and the logistics of sourcing local produce. Effective communication with suppliers and kitchen staff, as well as flexibility to adapt menus based on product availability, are key strategies for success. Collaborating closely with chefs to create innovative, light, and refreshing dishes can help meet customer expectations during the summer months.

What is summer menu planning?

Summer menu planning is the process of creating balanced, seasonal meal plans specifically for the summer months. It often involves selecting fresh, in-season ingredients and designing dishes that are lighter and more suitable for warmer weather. Summer menu planners may consider factors such as outdoor dining, grilling, and hydration, as well as dietary preferences and nutritional needs. This type of planning is commonly used in restaurants, schools, camps, and for families to make mealtimes easier and more enjoyable during summer.

What is the difference between Summer Menu Planning vs Summer Chef?

AspectSummer Menu PlanningSummer Chef
CredentialsFood service or culinary certifications, experience in menu developmentCooking certifications, culinary training, experience in kitchen
Work EnvironmentOffice or planning meetings, collaboration with culinary teamsKitchen, food preparation, cooking
Employer & IndustryRestaurants, catering, hospitality industryRestaurants, hotels, catering services
Primary FocusDesigning seasonal menus, planning ingredients, dietary considerationsPreparing and cooking dishes, executing menu items

Summer Menu Planning involves designing seasonal menus, selecting ingredients, and coordinating with culinary teams, focusing on planning and creativity. In contrast, a Summer Chef actively prepares and cooks dishes in the kitchen, executing the menu. Both roles are essential in the food service industry but differ in responsibilities and work environment.

What jobs make $3,000 a month without a degree?

Jobs related to summer menu planning, such as food service managers or catering coordinators, can sometimes earn around $3,000 monthly without a degree, especially with experience and strong organizational skills. Other roles like delivery drivers, retail supervisors, or freelance food consultants may also reach this income level, often requiring relevant skills or certifications but not necessarily a college degree.
More about Summer Menu Planning jobs
What cities are hiring for Summer Menu Planning jobs? Cities with the most Summer Menu Planning job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Menu Planning jobs? The most popular types of Menu Planning jobs are:
What states have the most Summer Menu Planning jobs? States with the most job openings for Summer Menu Planning jobs include:
Program Cook

Program Cook

Squaxin Island Tribe

Shelton, WA โ€ข On-site

$16.50 - $20.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

Description:

Job Title: Summer Recreation Program Cook

Department: Tu Haโ€™ Buts Learning Center

Reports To: Youth Activities Manager

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

TS Range: 5/6 ($21.79)

Opening Date: April 24, 2026

Closing Date: May 8, 2026

SUMMARY: The Summer Recreation Cook is responsible for the Summer Recreation Program foodservice operations including food preparation, following the planned menu; shopping for kitchen supplies and food as provided by supervisor. Responsible for maintaining food supply and equipment purchases within the defined budget. Prepares food according to the pre-determined Summer Food Program menu that responds to special needs, i.e.: food allergies, etc.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following. Other duties may be assigned.

Food Preparation & Service

  • Prepare, cook, and serve breakfast, lunch, and snacks using the established six-week balanced menu.
  • Ensure meals are safe, appealing, served on schedule, and meet required preparation standards.
  • Support supervision of the dining area in coordination with Summer Recreation Program staff.

Inventory & Purchasing

  • Maintain accurate inventory of food, milk, supplies, and kitchen equipment.
  • Purchase and unpack food and supplies from an approved shopping list, shopping 1โ€“2 times per week as scheduled.
  • Ensure adequate stock levels through effective planning and monitoring.

Recordkeeping & Compliance

  • Maintain accurate meal counts and food service records as directed by the Summer Food Program Supervisor.
  • Follow all Department of Health regulations and center policies related to food safety, sanitation, and infection control.
  • Ensure safe, proper storage of all food and kitchen supplies.

Kitchen Operations & Sanitation

  • Operate the kitchen in a clean, efficient, safe, and cost-effective manner.
  • Maintain daily kitchen cleanliness, including washing dishes, cleaning tables, and removing trash.
  • Clean kitchen appliances and equipment on a weekly schedule.

Program Support & Youth Engagement

  • Support the programโ€™s prevention curriculum and model positive behavior.
  • Encourage respect for staff, participants, equipment, and facilities.
  • Participate in field trips and supervise youth as needed.

Professional Expectations & Availability

  • Adhere to all program rules, policies, and operating principles.
  • Attend required pre-program staff training (June 22โ€“26).
  • Work the full Summer Recreation Program (June 30โ€“August 8), Mondayโ€“Thursday, 8am-4pm; 8am-2pm on Fridays.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES: There are no supervisory responsibilities with this position.

QUALIFICATIONS: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE: Must have experience working in a facility as a cook, which included menu planning, food and supply purchasing, and inventory and meal and record keeping. Experience should also include safe operation and maintenance of kitchen equipment and supplies. Must have experience cooking for large groups 30 โ€“ 100+ and Associates Degree and 1 year related experience (see above) OR High School Diploma or GED and a minimum of 3 years experience. (See above)

LANGUAGE SKILLS: Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals. Ability to write routine reports and correspondence. Ability to speak effectively before groups of customers or employees of the organization.

MATHEMATICAL SKILLS: Ability to calculate figures and amounts such as discounts, interest, commissions, proportions, percentages, area, circumference, and volume. Ability to apply concepts of basic algebra and geometry.

REASONING ABILITY: Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out instructions furnished in written, oral, or diagram form. Ability to deal with problems involving several concrete variables in standardized situations.

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS: Must have a current Washington State Driverโ€™s License and a current Food Handlerโ€™s Permit. Must receive current Food Handlerโ€™s Permit before 7/01/15. Must pass WATCH and Tribal Court Background Check (No crimes against people.) Must have current CPR/First Aid certification.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear; the employee is also frequently required to stand, walk, use hands to finger, handle or feel, reach with hands and arms; the employee is occasionally required to sit, climb or balance, stoop, kneel or crawl and taste or smell. The employee must also frequently lift up to 10 pounds and occasionally lift 25-50 pounds.

WORK ENVIRONMENT: The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

The employee may occasionally be exposed to toxic or caustic chemicals, and outdoor weather conditions. The noise level in the work environment is moderate.

DRUG FREE WORKPLACE: The successful candidate will be required to have a urinalysis for drug and alcohol screening in accordance with the Tribeโ€™s Drug Free Workplace Policy.

OTHER: Professional attire suitable for the work environment is required.

THERE WILL BE โ€œNOโ€ TOLERANCE FOR THE USE OF ALCOHOL OR ILLEGAL DRUGS WHILE EMPLOYED IN THE SUMMER YOUTH PROGRAM. USE OF TOBACCO IN FRONT OF THE YOUTH OR DURING WORK TIME IS NOT ALLOWED. ANY VIOLATION OF THESE POLICIES IS CAUSE FOR IMMEDIATE TERMINATION.

INDIAN PREFERECE: Indian Preference will be exercised in the hiring of this position in accordance with the Tribeโ€™s Personnel Policies.

TO APPLY: Submit application packets including a resume and cover letter on Paylocity through the Squaxin Island Tribe Career Opportunities website. Contact Human Resources for more information: 360-432-3865.

Requirements: