Executive Chef - San Diego Zoo Safari Park

San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is a renowned international nonprofit conservation organization that operates through two remarkable public gateways: the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. This organization is dedicated to integrating wildlife health and care, scientific research, and educational programs, all with the objective of developing sustainable conservation solutions worldwide. Committed to advancing global wildlife preservation efforts, the Alliance merges innovative science with hands-on care to protect endangered species and their habitats, while educating and inspiring visitors through immersive experiences at their world-class facilities.

The San Diego Zoo Safari Park, a premier wildlife destination in Escondido, California, houses over 3,500 animals representing more than 400 species and subspecies. It plays a vital role not only as a visitor attraction but also as a significant contributor to conservation science and wildlife education. The Park’s culinary operations are integral to the guest experience, providing diverse, high-quality, and sustainable food services across more than 25 outlets with annual revenues exceeding $50 million. The culinary team supports the organization's mission by enhancing visitor satisfaction through exceptional dining experiences that reflect current culinary trends and incorporate sustainable practices.

The Executive Chef position at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park is a pivotal leadership role responsible for overseeing and enhancing all culinary operations within this dynamic environment. This full-time, salaried exempt position commands a salary range of $130,421 to $146,724, reflecting the high level of expertise and responsibility it entails. Reporting directly to the Director of Retail Operations and indirectly coordinating with the Associate Retail Director responsible for Banquets and Full-Service Operations, the Executive Chef ensures culinary excellence and operational efficiency throughout the Park’s dining venues.

Key responsibilities of the Executive Chef include leading the creation and execution of innovative menus tailored to various dining formats including banquets, full-service restaurants, quick service outlets, and VIP events. The role demands a sophisticated understanding of culinary arts, particularly in high-volume and multi-unit environments. The Executive Chef collaborates closely with departments such as the CEO’s office, Event Sales, Philanthropy, and Operations to curate memorable dining experiences that align with event themes and charitable initiatives. Financial stewardship is critical, with the Chef managing budgets, food costing, pricing strategies, and inventory controls to sustain profitability while maintaining quality and compliance with health and safety standards.

Beyond menu development and financial management, the Executive Chef leads a diverse culinary team, emphasizing recruitment, training, mentoring, scheduling, and performance management to foster a productive and positive kitchen culture. The role requires strong leadership skills to build cohesive teams motivated by a shared commitment to quality and hospitality. Maintaining strict adherence to food safety, sanitation, and regulatory requirements is a top priority to ensure the health and safety of both guests and employees.

Candidates for this role are expected to have over seven years of progressive culinary leadership experience, with at least five years in an Executive Chef or Executive Sous Chef capacity within large and multi-unit settings. Experience spanning fine dining, catering, and high-volume quick service environments is highly valued. Educational qualifications preferably include a bachelor's degree and culinary certifications, with mandatory ServSafe certification obtained within the first 90 days of employment.

In addition to offering a competitive salary, the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance provides significant benefits such as free admissions, family passes, complimentary tickets, on-site parking, local discounts, employee assistance programs, and wellness initiatives. This position represents a unique opportunity for culinary professionals passionate about conservation, hospitality excellence, and working within a world-class organization committed to environmental stewardship and community engagement.