Seasonal Banquet Cooks

Calgary Zoo; Calgary; On-site; CAD 30,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a leading wildlife conservation organization as a Banquet Cook. You will be a vital part of the enthusiastic Catering Back of House Team at the Calgary Zoo, responsible for exceptional food service at catered events while ensuring high standards of cleanliness and safety. With your cooking experience and passion for customer service, this is a unique opportunity to work in a fun environment surrounded by nature and wildlife.

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.
• Availability to work flexible hours including weekends and holidays.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and deliver food service for catered events.
• Ensure cleanliness and organization of the kitchen and storage areas.
• Adhere to health and safety regulations.

Skills

Food Safety

Customer Service

Cooking

Education

Red Seal Certification

Alberta Food Safety Training

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: Start Date: May 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 and safety 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 Certification is strongly preferred.
• Class 5 Driver’s License and ability to operate golf carts and 1-ton panel trucks.
• Availability to work a flexible schedule including mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays.

Working Conditions:

• Exposure to hot and cold elements in the kitchen.
• Consistent 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 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.

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