JOB DETAILS

Year-Round Cook

CompanyCOASTAL MAINE BOTANICAL GARDENS
LocationBoothbay
Work ModeOn Site
PostedMay 15, 2026
About The Company
At nearly 325 acres, Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens is the largest public garden in New England. Voted #1 on TripAdvisor, the nationally recognized public garden is located in Boothbay, Maine. With two miles of hiking trails, 19 acres of ornamental and themed gardens featuring native plants of Maine, a children’s garden, a sensory garden, and so much more, there’s something for everyone. The mission of the Gardens is to inspire meaningful connections between people and nature and promoting plant conservation through horticulture, education, and plant science.
About the Role

Description

Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens is hiring a Cook!


 $1,000.00 Sign-on Bonus 

Half when hired and the remaining half after 6 months of employment.


Are you a Cook who is passionate about delicious, local food, excited about inspiring meaningful connections among people and nature in one of the most beautiful settings in Maine, and committed to supporting the Gardens’ Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility goals?  


This is a Year-round, Full-time, benefits eligible position. 

$27.00 - 28.00 hourly (base rate + tip pool), non-exempt 

Year-round employees receive personal and sick paid time off, health and retirement benefits, discounts in our culinary programs and Gardenshop, and a Gardens membership. 


The Cook will be responsible for preparing and cooking a variety of dishes according to established recipes and standards. This position supports the mission by using local, seasonal and Gardens grown ingredients to connect our guests to the natural world around them. In coordination with the Chef, the Cook also supports menu development, event planning and execution, and Culinary special projects.    


Weekend availability is required. Open hours for the summer season (May-October) are 9:00 am – 5:00 pm. Evening availability is required for Gardens Aglow (November-December), which is open 4:00 – 9:00 pm.  


Primary Functions:

  • Prepare and cook a wide range of menu items, following recipes and portion control guidelines.  
  • Assist in planning and developing new dishes, specials, and menu items, while considering seasonality, dietary restrictions, and guest preferences.  
  • Ensure all food items are cooked and presented with consistent quality and presentation.   
  • Adhere to all food safety and sanitation standards, maintaining a clean and organized kitchen workspace.   
  • Contribute to a positive and collaborative team environment, working effectively alongside kitchen staff.   

Physical Requirements:

  • Ability to stand for extended periods of time.  
  • Ability to lift and carry heavy items up to 50 pounds.  
  • Required to use hands to hold, carry, handle or feel; required to reach hands and arms.  
  • Occasionally required to bend, lift, stoop, reach, or climb. 

Requirements

  • Previous experience as a Cook in a professional kitchen setting required.  
  • Strong understanding of various cooking methods, ingredients, equipment, and procedures. 
  • Knowledge of food safety and sanitation regulations.   
  • Ability to work under pressure and maintain composure during busy periods.   

 


Key Skills
CookingRecipe FollowingPortion ControlMenu DevelopmentEvent PlanningFood SafetySanitationTeamworkSeasonality AwarenessDietary Restrictions Knowledge
Categories
Food & BeverageHospitalityEnvironmental & Sustainability
Benefits
Paid Time OffSick Time OffHealth BenefitsRetirement BenefitsDiscountsGardens Membership
Job Information
📋Core Responsibilities
The Cook is responsible for preparing and cooking a variety of dishes following established recipes and standards, while supporting the mission by using local and seasonal ingredients. This role also involves assisting the Chef with menu development, event execution, and special culinary projects.
📋Job Type
full time
💰Salary Range
$27 - $28
📊Experience Level
2-5
💼Company Size
69
📊Visa Sponsorship
No
💼Language
English
🏢Working Hours
40 hours
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