Assistant Cook (Summer 2026)

Location: Sundance Trail Guest Ranch, Colorado
Reports To: Head Chef
Compensation: Competitive hourly pay + tips + (room & board included)
Seasonal Position

Sundance Trail Guest Ranch is seeking a reliable and enthusiastic Assistant Cook to support our kitchen team in creating hearty, home-cooked meals for guests and staff. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys working in a collaborative kitchen environment, takes pride in cleanliness and organization, and values being part of a welcoming, guest-focused ranch experience.

Key Responsibilities:

Food Preparation & Meal Service:

• Assist the Head Chef with preparation and serving of meals, snacks, and desserts.
  
  
• Help prepare fruits, salads, baked goods, and other meal components as directed.
  
  
• Ensure guests have ample food during meals and assist with refills as needed.
  
  
• Support special meal services such as outdoor cookouts, picnic lunches, campfire meals, and candlelight dinners.
  
  
• Assist with proper food storage and use of leftovers to maintain quality and variety.
  
  

Kitchen & Dining Room Cleanliness:

• Maintain a clean, organized kitchen and dining space throughout the day.
  
  
• Wash, dry, and properly store dishes, pots, pans, and kitchen equipment following sanitation guidelines.
  
  
• Clean and sanitize countertops, cutting boards, and frequently touched surfaces.
  
  
• Sweep, mop, vacuum, and maintain floors and dining areas after meals.
  
  
• Assist with cleaning windows, doors, and shared kitchen spaces as needed.
  
  

Compliance & Safety:

• Follow all Health Department Safety Standards and food-handling regulations.
  
  
• Assist with daily temperature logs for refrigerators and freezers.
  
  
• Follow proper food handling, cooling, reheating, and storage procedures.
  
  
• Dispose of food waste responsibly to protect the ranch’s septic system.
  
  

Guest Experience & Team Support:

• Assist with greeting guests and providing refreshments upon arrival when needed.
  
  
• Help maintain a warm, welcoming dining atmosphere for guests.
  
  
• Work collaboratively with the Head Chef, dish staff, housekeeping, wranglers, and management to ensure smooth operations.
  
  
• Participate in special ranch events, themed dinners, and guest activities as requested.
  
  

End-of-Day Responsibilities:

• Ensure the kitchen is fully cleaned and ready for the next day’s service.
  
  
• Take out trash and follow bear-proofing procedures.
  
  
• Turn off kitchen equipment, properly store food, and secure the kitchen for the night.
  
  

Qualifications:

• Previous experience in food preparation or kitchen support preferred.
  
  
• Basic understanding of food safety, sanitation, and cleanliness standards.
  
  
• Strong teamwork skills and willingness to take direction from the Head Chef.
  
  
• Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced, hands-on environment.
  
  
• Willingness to work flexible hours, including mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays.
  
  
• Ability to stand for long periods and lift/carry kitchen supplies as needed.
  
  
• Positive attitude and appreciation for hospitality and guest service.
  
  

Perks:

• Room & Board Included: Live and dine on-site at the ranch.
  
  
• Tips: Earn additional income based on guest satisfaction.
  
  
• Ranch Lifestyle: Work in a beautiful Colorado mountain setting with a close-knit team.
  
  

If you enjoy cooking, value teamwork, and want to be part of creating memorable guest experiences at a Colorado dude ranch, we’d love to hear from you!‍

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How to Apply: Please complete our online job application and submit your resume along with a brief cover letter outlining your culinary experience and why you’d be a great fit for this role.