Sous Chef - San Diego Zoo Safari Park

San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is a renowned international nonprofit conservation organization that operates two major facilities: the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. With a commitment to integrating wildlife health and care, scientific research, and education, the Alliance develops sustainable conservation solutions that positively impact both animals and ecosystems worldwide. Rooted in decades of experience and leadership in conservation, the organization plays a pivotal role in the protection and preservation of endangered species and their habitats through innovative programs and community engagement initiatives.

This job opening is for the position of Sous Chef, a key role within the culinary team at San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance. Reporting directly to the Chef/Executive Chef, the Sous Chef will oversee daily kitchen operations and take an active leadership role in managing kitchen staff, ensuring high standards of food quality and service. This position is vital to the success of the organization's food service operations, including their restaurants, banquets, catering, and commissary kitchen.

As a Sous Chef, you will be responsible for a variety of tasks designed to support both the culinary team and the organization's mission. Your duties will include collaborating on interviewing, hiring, scheduling, training, mentoring, and managing kitchen personnel, ensuring that the team functions efficiently and professionally. You will also play a significant role in preparing and executing special events, banquets, and themed menus, working closely with the Executive Chef to maintain excellence in all food-related services.

In addition to overseeing kitchen staff, you will participate in administrative functions such as payroll and scheduling, while working in partnership with front-of-house, catering, and restaurant management teams to ensure seamless service delivery. You will be involved in menu development for various dining venues, overseeing daily kitchen operations including accurate product ordering, inventory monitoring, and forecasting both labor and food supply costs.

Maintaining stringent food safety and sanitation standards is a critical component of this role. You will ensure the kitchen complies with all federal, state, and local regulations through conducting safety training, inspections, and maintaining proper documentation. Furthermore, you will monitor equipment functionality and develop best practice facility standards that align with the Department of Environmental Health (DEH) requirements.

San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance values individuals who are passionate about sustainability and conservation; therefore, the Sous Chef will also research new products and approaches aimed at supporting the organization’s mission while enhancing culinary creativity. This role offers the opportunity to be part of an innovative team committed to community, connection, and outstanding guest experiences.

Located in Escondido, CA, this is a full-time, salaried exempt position with a salary rate of $77,225. Candidates with experience in fine dining and high-volume kitchen environments are preferred, and those who are enthusiastic about growing with a dedicated team in a dynamic setting will find this opportunity especially rewarding. The organization emphasizes diversity, equity, and inclusion, ensuring that all qualified applicants receive consideration, and promotes a culture of belonging that enriches both employees and guests alike.