<p>Overview</p> <p>Join The Wilds as a Seasonal Chef/Cook and play a key role in providing high-quality food service for guests, special events, and camp programs. This position is ideal for individuals with culinary experience who thrive in a fast-paced environment and are passionate about delivering exceptional food and service.</p> <p>Responsibilities</p> <p>Food Preparation & Cooking</p> <ul> <li>Serve as the primary Chef/Cook for either the breakfast or dinner shift. </li><li>Prepare and cook meals for catering, special events, and camp programs. </li><li>Ensure compliance with ServSafe standards and maintain proper food safety and sanitation practices. </li></ul> <p>Menu & Inventory Management</p> <ul> <li>Assist the Food & Beverage Manager and Kitchen Coordinator in developing menus and forecasting food orders. </li><li>Monitor food costs and recommend retail pricing. </li><li>Maintain proper inventory levels and assist in ordering supplies, ingredients, and consumables. </li></ul> <p>Operations & Customer Service</p> <ul> <li>Perform daily kitchen tasks, including cooking, food prep, cleaning, and equipment maintenance. </li><li>Provide exceptional customer service and assist with training seasonal staff on company policies and procedures. </li><li>Operate point-of-sale (POS) systems and assist with cashier duties as needed. </li><li>Follow FIFO (First In, First Out) protocols for food storage and organization. </li></ul> <p>Team Communication & Leadership</p> <ul> <li>Work closely with the Food & Beverage Manager, Kitchen Coordinator, and Director of Operations to ensure smooth daily operations. </li><li>Maintain open and effective communication with team members and leadership. </li><li>Assist in training seasonal staff and maintaining adherence to company policies. </li></ul> <p>Safety & Compliance</p> <ul> <li>Follow all OSHA, FDA, and ServSafe food handling policies and procedures. </li><li>Adhere to emergency and safety procedures for food handling and kitchen operations. </li><li>Perform opening and closing duties as required per shift. </li></ul> <p>Qualifications</p> <p>Education & Experience</p> <ul> <li>Formal education in food preparation or extensive experience in a similar role. </li><li>3-5 years of experience in a food service environment. </li><li>Supervisory experience preferred. </li></ul> <p>Skills & Abilities</p> <ul> <li>Strong organizational skills with computer proficiency preferred. </li><li>Ability to make independent decisions and problem-solve efficiently. </li><li>Strong verbal and written communication skills. </li><li>Ability to work a flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, and holidays. </li></ul> <p>Compliance & Safety</p> <ul> <li>Positive attitude with a commitment to excellent service and upholding guest service standards. </li><li>Maintain cooperative working relationships with all Columbus Zoo Family of Parks team members. </li><li>Adhere to standard operating procedures, including safety protocols. </li><li>Possession of a valid state-issued driver's license and a good driving record. </li><li>Successfully complete a drug screening, criminal history background check, and BMV check. </li><li>This position is not eligible for overtime pay. </li></ul>