Seasonal Banquet Cook

Calgary Zoo; Calgary; On-site; CAD 35,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

The Wilder Institute / Calgary Zoo seeks energetic Banquet Cooks for its Catering Team, responsible for delivering high-quality food service at various events. Join us to create exceptional experiences while working in a unique outdoor environment dedicated to wildlife conservation. Candidates with a passion for culinary excellence and flexible availability will thrive in this rewarding role.

Benefits

Discounts on food, beverages, and merchandise

Participation in the Staff Pass Benefit program

Opportunity to work among wild animals

Qualifications

• 1-2 years of experience cooking for banquets or events.
• Ability to operate golf carts and 1-ton panel trucks.
• Flexibility to work various schedules including weekends and holidays.

Responsibilities

• Prepare food following Event Orders and catering function sheets.
• Ensure cleanliness and organization of work areas and storage.
• Support other kitchen positions and adhere to health and safety policies.

Skills

Customer Service

Food Preparation

Sanitation

Education

Alberta Food Safety Training

Red Seal Training

Tools

Class 5 Driver’s License

Job description

Broaden your culinary career by joining The Wilder Institute / Calgary Zoo! We are looking for Banquet Cooks to join our enthusiastic and energetic Catering Back of House Team. With 8 unique venues across 120 acres, we house one of the largest catering teams in the city and provide a first-rate dining experience created to delight the senses.

Find out more about our catering and the direction of the Executive Chef and Sous Chefs. Banquet Cooks are responsible for preparing and delivering food service for our catered events at the zoo. You may also have the opportunity to work in our restaurant, Grazers, which showcases locally sourced menu items.

Our Purpose: We act for wildlife; saving species and inspiring people to join us.

Our Core Values: Drive impact, nurture connection, cultivate hope, and be bold.

Contract Details: Start Date: June and July 2025
End Date: December 2025

What you will do:

• Create exceptional experiences through high-quality food and superior customer service
• Prepare food as directed, following specifications on Event Orders
• Read and follow instructions as per catering function sheets
• Ensure work areas are clean, including countertops, utensils, equipment, and refrigeration, in accordance with health regulations
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of all storage areas
• Support other kitchen positions as needed
• Adhere to policies and procedures regarding sanitation and food handling
• Comply with the zoo’s health and safety program
• Perform additional duties as required

What you will bring:

• 1-2 years of experience cooking for banquets or events
• Alberta Food Safety Training is required
• Red Seal Training is strongly preferred
• Class 5 Driver’s License and ability to operate golf carts and 1-ton panel trucks
• Availability to work flexible schedules, including mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays

Working Conditions:

• Exposure to hot and cold elements in the kitchen
• Exposure to flora and fauna on Zoo grounds
• Heavy lifting (up to 50 lbs), walking, and standing for long periods

The Wilder Institute / Calgary Zoo is an outdoor facility. All staff must be comfortable working in various outdoor conditions. The organization follows Environment Canada’s advice regarding temperature and air quality. The Wilder Institute / Calgary Zoo is a no-smoking environment, including vaping.

What We Offer:

• Discounts on food, beverages, and merchandise
• Participation in the Staff Pass Benefit program
• A fun, rewarding work environment and the opportunity to work among wild animals

Are you ready to join one of Canada’s leaders in wildlife conservation? If this position matches your skills, experience, and personal attributes, we want to hear from you.