Food Service - Food Service Cook @ The El Paso Zoo

SSA Group is a well-established leader in the hospitality industry, partnering with cultural attractions for over 50 years to design and deliver exceptional hospitality experiences. Their dedication is rooted in supporting partners to maintain their mission focus by seamlessly integrating admissions, culinary, and retail operations. This innovative approach emphasizes human connections and operational intelligence to craft memorable guest journeys. SSA Group's 452 Hospitality philosophy forms the foundation of their service model, prioritizing people, innovation, and a commitment to creating special moments that leave a lasting impact on guests and clients.

The El Paso Zoo, a prominent cultural destination, collaborates with SSA Group to provide outstanding food service as part of its visitor experience. The Food Service Cook position is a part-time role, mostly focused on weekends, and is crucial in ensuring that food preparation and kitchen operations run smoothly within the zoo's hospitality framework. Reporting to the Kitchen Manager(s), Sous Chef(s), and Executive Chef, this position involves supporting back-of-house (BOH) and line operations to meet high standards of food quality, safety, and guest satisfaction.

The role is designed for individuals who live the 452 Hospitality standards by delivering warm, welcoming, and memorable experiences for guests. Responsibilities include preparing food items according to daily needs, ensuring proper food handling and safety, maintaining cleanliness and organization in the kitchen workspace, and actively supporting the overall operation by filling in any operational gaps. This position requires strong communication skills, problem-solving abilities, and flexibility to adapt in a fast-paced environment. Physical endurance is necessary as the cook will be expected to stand for extended periods and handle moderately heavy items as needed.

Candidates who thrive in this role are team players, personable, professional, and energetic with a strong initiative to contribute to a collaborative kitchen environment. The position also embraces the company’s commitment to inclusion, sustainability, and community engagement, ensuring a holistic approach to hospitality that benefits clients, guests, and team members alike. Benefits include eligibility for overtime pay, an On-Demand Pay Program, meal plans and employee discounts, participation in a 401(k) program with a company match, tuition discounts, bereavement leave, holiday pay at 1.5 times the regular rate on major holidays, and paid sick leave as per state and local regulations.

SSA Group and its affiliated companies are equal opportunity employers, committed to diversity and inclusion, and encourage applications from all backgrounds. The Food Service Cook role at The El Paso Zoo is a fantastic opportunity for those looking to grow their culinary skills in a vibrant and supportive environment where every team member plays a vital part in delivering excellent guest experiences while upholding high standards of food safety and operational efficiency.