Catering Sous Chef

Position Description: The primary duty of the Sous Chef is to assist the Executive Chef in overseeing and directing the menu preparation and execution for Catering at the Zoo events. Must lead by example and guide the team in a professional demeanor.

Responsible to: Executive Chef

Oversees: Kitchen Utility and prep staff

Essential Job Functions:

• Functions as the co-lead for the preparation and execution of the banquet event order
• Ability to execute recipes, supervise and train, adjusting as necessary
• Maintain and follow all food handling guidelines in accordance with Department of Health regulations; ensures that others do the same
• Maintains sanitary conditions of equipment and work area in line with Department of Health regulations
• Evaluate food before serving to ensure quality of taste, consistency and visual presentation
• Fulfill line level kitchen duties
• Oversee kitchen utility and prep staff in tasks and direction
• Manage closing duties including end of day kitchen inspection
• Performs other duties as assigned
• Adheres to Zoo policies and protocols

Desired Training/Experience:

• Culinary degree/certification or 2-3 years of directly related experience
• Leadership experience
• Understanding of Health and Safety standards/laws

Skills/Knowledge Required

• Strong communication skills, must be adept at directing/instructing others
• Committed to quality of product and service
• Respects others, must employ strong team skills
• Demonstrates flexibility and self-motivation; Organizational skills
• Able to lift moderate to heavy items (50 – 100 pounds)
• Shifts include days, nights, late nights and/or weekends and holidays
• Requires standing, walking and lifting heavy items
• Working hazards include, but not limited to, hot surfaces, wet floors, hot surfaces and sharp objects

Established in 1970, Friends of the Rosamond Gifford Zoo is a non-profit organization and dedicated partner of the Rosamond Gifford Zoo that exists to raise philanthropic support for and public awareness of the zoo. We are resourceful, passionate, and dedicated about what we do.

The Friends and the Rosamond Gifford share a joint mission of connecting people with the natural world by providing engaging guest experiences, exceptional animal care and unparalleled conservation education. We strive to provide our guests with experiences that excite, memories that endure, and knowledge that inspires worldwide conservation.