Calling all full time camp cooks!

[firefighterla130]

I am looking for some information from those that are employed as full time camp cooks. Mostly what I am wondering is what you do during the off seasons? Do you move from place to place or do you have other jobs? I am very excited to have a new career but I want to be able to support myself. I am also looking for a basic pay scale and any other info would be great! Like are any of you married and is your significant other not involved in any outfitting. What are the best areas for getting jobs?

[cast iron cook]

Usually I can work about eight months of the year as a cook. In the off season I mark timber as I was a forester before I started doing this. Some places in New Mexico and Arizona work later than they do up north in Montana or Idaho. Usually after eight months of working in the backcountry I need some time off to recharge my batteries. Winter months are slow in this business. I'm sure you could pick up some skills that could hold you over during the lean times.