Double Rafter Cattle Drives, Inc.
Job Title: Cattle Drive Cook
Job Type: Full-time, for the season of May-October
Pay: $80-150+/day, depending on experience
Location: On the range (camping), without running water or electricity
Job Description:
We’re hiring a seasonal Cattle Drive Camp Cook (May–October) to join our team on six multi-day backcountry cattle drives each year, preparing hearty, high-quality meals for up to 40 guests and crew — all without running water or electricity and the occasional missing ingredient. This role requires strong cooking skills, the ability to regularly lift 50+ lbs, and the grit to work long days outdoors in all weather, waking between 2–5 a.m. to light lanterns and start breakfast. You’ll help the crew pack, set, and break camp, wash dishes, and be a steady, positive presence on the range. Between trips, you’ll assist with shopping, prep work, and organizing for the next drive. The ideal candidate is dependable, adaptable, quick to laugh when plans shift, and thrives where hard work meets unforgettable adventure. Housing provided.
Responsibilities:
Food Preparation: Assist in the preparation of meals for a team of cattle drive guests and staff. This includes chopping vegetables, marinating meats, and preparing ingredients for cooking.
Cooking on Open Fire: Execute cooking techniques suitable for outdoor settings, such as grilling, campfire cooking, and Dutch oven cooking.
Menu Planning: Collaborate with the kitchen team to plan menus with our tried and true recipes that are nutritious, delicious, and suitable for outdoor dining. Consider dietary restrictions, seasonal availability of ingredients, and the energy requirements of cattle drivers working long days on the range.
Food Safety and Hygiene: Adhere to strict food safety standards to ensure the safety and well-being of all team members. Maintain cleanliness and organization in the outdoor kitchen area to prevent food contamination and minimize waste.
Team Collaboration: Work closely with other kitchen staff, to coordinate meal preparation and ensure timely service. Communicate effectively and contribute ideas to enhance the overall dining experience for the cattle drive guests and crew. Work as a team to clean the kitchen and dining area, dishes and put away food, trash and supplies.
Resource Management: Manage food inventory and supplies efficiently, taking into account the limited resources available in a remote camping environment. Minimize food waste and make use of local ingredients whenever possible.
Adaptability: Demonstrate flexibility and adaptability in response to changing weather conditions, logistical challenges, and unexpected situations that may arise during the cattle drive. Embrace the spirit of adventure and contribute to a positive team dynamic.
Positivity: Embrace the opportunity to work in a Christian-oriented environment, upholding the company's values of faith, integrity, and service. Foster a positive and inclusive atmosphere within the kitchen team, promoting teamwork, respect, and camaraderie among staff members and guests.
Camp Tending: Tend to the camp needs by stocking outhouses with supplies, maintaining and restocking beverages, emptying trash, lighting lanterns and setting the overall atmosphere of the camp. Tear down and set up camp as required by cattle drive locations
And other duties as assigned
Qualifications:
Passion for cooking and an interest in outdoor culinary experiences.
Basic culinary skills and knowledge of kitchen operations. Experience preferred.
Strong work ethic and willingness to camp & work long hours outdoors.
Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
Ability to adapt to changing circumstances and thrive in a rustic, outdoor setting.
Food safety certification (preferred but not required).
Duration:
This position is a full-time, seasonal position for the duration of our cattle drive season (May-early October). Candidates must be available for the entire duration of the program.
Benefits:
Housing provided
Paid position, offering $80 - 150 per day, depending on experience
Seasonal schedule (May–October)
Hands-on experience in outdoor cooking and campfire cuisine
Breathtaking backcountry scenery and unplugged living
Tight-knit team environment
Meaningful, hands-on work with immediate impact
Stories you’ll be telling for the rest of your life
Sleep better than ever because you’ll be so tired
Reports to:
Alice Kerns, Kitchen Overseer
Cathryn Kerns, Alice’s Assistant
Join us for an unforgettable culinary adventure on the open range and be part of a team dedicated to delivering memorable dining experiences amidst the beauty of the great outdoors. Apply now to embark on adventure as Camp Cook for Double Rafter Cattle Drives.