Executive Sous Chef

SSA Group is a renowned hospitality management company with over 50 years of experience, specializing in partnering with cultural attractions to design and enhance hospitality experiences. SSA Group combines admissions, culinary, and retail operations with a focus on innovation and human connection to create seamless and memorable guest journeys. Their unique approach, known as 452 Hospitality, emphasizes people, innovation, and operational intelligence to deliver special moments that leave a lasting impact on their partners and their communities.

The SSA Group at San Antonio Zoo is seeking a skilled and dedicated Executive Sous Chef to join their dynamic culinary team. This role is full-time and exempt, offering a competitive salary along with a $75 monthly cell phone stipend. The Executive Sous Chef will report directly to the Executive Chef and plays a crucial role in maintaining high culinary standards, operational excellence, and fostering a positive team culture.

In this role, the Executive Sous Chef will be responsible for leading kitchen personnel by interviewing, hiring, coaching, and evaluating staff to ensure quality food production and excellent service. They will develop and implement culinary training programs, enforce safety and sanitation standards, and maintain effective communication with food and catering operations teams to support seamless menu production. Operational responsibilities include supervising food preparation, ensuring compliance with food safety regulations, monitoring inventory, participating in menu planning based on market and nutritional trends, and managing kitchen and dining area cleanliness.

The Executive Sous Chef will also assist in controlling food costs through effective storage and waste control, analyze sales and inventory to maximize profitability, support payroll and budget management, and contribute to scheduling to meet business forecasts. Beyond operations, this position embraces SSA Group's commitment to social responsibility by promoting sustainable culinary practices and fostering an inclusive workplace environment.

The role demands strong leadership and interpersonal skills, problem-solving abilities, and flexibility to adapt to a fast-paced environment. Physical stamina is required to handle the demands of the kitchen, including standing for long periods and lifting up to 35 pounds. The Executive Sous Chef must be able to work varied hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays as needed.

This position is ideal for culinary professionals with three to five years of experience as a Junior Sous Chef or in similar roles within high-volume restaurants, country clubs, catering, or cultural attractions. A degree in Culinary Arts is preferred, along with certifications such as ServSafe or Food Handling and knowledge of HACCP standards.

SSA Group values diversity and inclusion, welcoming applicants from all backgrounds to contribute to their mission of creating exceptional hospitality experiences. The company also offers comprehensive benefits, including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, a 401(k) program with a company match, disability coverage, parental leave, paid leave options, and employee discounts.

Join SSA Group at the San Antonio Zoo as an Executive Sous Chef and be part of a team dedicated to excellence, innovation, and community impact in the culinary field.