Food Service - Lead

SSA Group is a seasoned partner in the hospitality and cultural attraction sectors, committed to creating exceptional guest experiences through innovative and seamless service. With more than 50 years of experience, SSA Group focuses on integrating admissions, culinary, and retail elements to curate an unforgettable hospitality journey known as 452 Hospitality. This unique approach centers on people, innovation, and operational intelligence to create special moments that leave lasting impressions on guests and communities alike.

SSA Group is currently seeking a dedicated and energetic Food Service Lead to join the food operations team at the Great Plains Zoo. This key role involves leading the daily operations of multiple food stands within the park, ensuring that inventory, safety, and cleanliness standards are meticulously maintained. The Food Service Lead is responsible for overseeing food stand preparation, managing staff, and fostering a warm and welcoming atmosphere for visitors. This position requires someone who is comfortable working outdoors in various weather conditions and who can engage guests to deliver the hospitality goals that define the SSA brand.

The Food Service Lead works closely with the Food Service Supervisor(s) and Food Service Operations Manager(s) to ensure smooth daily operations. Key responsibilities include ensuring that each food stand is properly stocked and staffed, supporting food preparation tasks, maintaining safety and sanitation protocols, and creating a positive team environment that motivates staff. The role calls for a proactive individual who can respond effectively to guest feedback, uphold strict hygiene and safety guidelines, and maintain organized workspaces. This leadership position is vital to upholding the zoo's reputation for quality food service and guest satisfaction.

Candidates for this role should possess strong interpersonal and communication skills, exceptional problem-solving abilities, and a flexible approach to fast-paced work environments. Physical endurance to stand for extended periods and handle the physical demands of the job is essential. The role includes varied working hours including nights, weekends, and holidays to align with operational needs. An ideal candidate is a dependable team player, professional in demeanor, upbeat, and energetic, with a demonstrated ability to take initiative.

The Food Service Lead role also emphasizes SSA's commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (IDEA + Belonging). Employees in this position are encouraged to promote an inclusive and supportive team culture, empower growth opportunities, and engage in sustainability and conservation efforts. Moreover, they support community engagement activities to reinforce SSA's mission and social responsibility.

This position offers competitive compensation with eligibility for overtime pay and access to an On-Demand Pay Program, allowing early access to a portion of earned wages before payday. Employees benefit from meal plans and discounts at applicable locations, a 401(k) program with a 15% company match for eligible participants, and tuition discounts through Partnership College. Additionally, paid bereavement leave, holiday pay at 1.5x the regular rate for certain holidays, and paid sick leave in accordance with state and local laws provide comprehensive support to team members.

Join the dynamic and supportive food operations team at the Great Plains Zoo and contribute to creating memorable experiences for guests while advancing your career in hospitality leadership with SSA Group. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis and reviewed as received, ensuring a continuous opportunity to become part of a diverse and inclusive organization dedicated to excellence and community impact.