Canteen & Cool Beans Lead (2 Positions)

The Canteen & Cool Beans Lead plays a vital role in our mission of “Every life impacted for Christ” by creating a hospitable environment and providing excellent customer service. This position is responsible for the daily operation of the camp coffee shop, canteen, and store, ensuring every guest feels welcomed and cared for.

General Qualifications

  • Age & Education: Must be at least 18 years old. Completion of one year of college or post-high school equivalent is required (two years preferred).

  • Spiritual Maturity: Demonstrates a personal relationship with the Lord, a basic Biblical understanding, and a commitment to the values of Portage Lake Bible Camp and the Evangelical Covenant Church.

  • Character: A positive Christian role model with a servant’s heart and a desire for personal and spiritual growth.

  • Leadership: Excellent communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills. Previous ministry leadership or camp experience is highly preferred.

  • Environment: Eager to live and serve in an intentional, rustic, and “unplugged” Christian community.

  • Versatility: A team player capable of serving outside the primary job description as needed.

Specific Qualifications

  • Customer Service: Exceptional hospitality and service skills are required.

  • Industry Experience: Previous experience in the service, hospitality, or sales industry is highly preferred.

  • Culinary Skills: Prior barista experience is highly desired.

  • Safety: Knowledge of or certification in ServSafe practices is highly preferred.

Duties & Responsibilities

Area Leadership & Operations

  • Hospitality: Foster a welcoming environment for all campers, guests, and staff while delivering high-quality products and assistance.

  • Supervision: Train and provide leadership to all staff and volunteers assigned to the Canteen, Cool Beans, and camp store.

  • Food Safety: Strictly follow all ServSafe requirements, including cleanliness, hand-washing, dishwashing, date marking, and proper food storage.

  • Inventory Management: Practice diligent stewardship of the area by maintaining accurate inventory records; report restocking needs to the Food Service Director.

Staff & Community Engagement

  • Discipleship: Act as an initiator and supporter of a healthy, life-giving staff community.

  • Training: Fully engage in all aspects of staff training and onboarding.

  • Counseling Support: Support counseling and leadership staff throughout the day by engaging with assigned cabins and assisting with various events.

General Camp Operations

  • Accountability: Report directly to the Program Director.

  • Program Involvement: Remain active in camp life by attending events, games, and chapel services.

  • Operational Assistance: Participate in general camp cleaning and maintenance; assist in the kitchen as needed to ensure the facility runs smoothly.

  • Reliability: Timely attendance and active participation in all staff meetings and debriefs.

Note: As the Lead for Canteen and Cool Beans, you are often the primary point of hospitality for our guests. Your excellence in service and your Christ-like attitude create a space where people feel at home and ready to hear the Word of God.

Get involved

How to Apply

Apply by February 14th to be eligible for a $150 bonus if hired!

**Reference letters do not have to be submitted just the application and the pending references.

**Applicants must commit to the entirety of the PLCBC summer season (end of May-mid August) to receive bonus.

New staff applicants must have 3 types references: one academic, one spiritual, and one professional. Returning applicants are required to have 1 new reference. You may not use family members, peers or friends, anyone under the age of 18, or a current PLCBC staff member as a reference. You are responsible for contacting references and making sure they complete and submit a form. References can either fill out a form by clicking the button below, or you can share this link:

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Have any questions?

If you have any questions, please email matt@portagelake.org or call camp office at 231-889-5911.

Leadership Staff Training: Beginning May 17th

All-Staff Training: Beginning June 2