Banquet Event Cook — Fast-Paced, Flexible Schedule

Friends of Rosamond Gifford Zoo; City of Syracuse (NY); On-site; USD 28,000 - 46,000; Full time

Job summary

Friends of Rosamond Gifford Zoo in Syracuse, NY is seeking a dedicated kitchen staff member to support banquet operations and daily food service. You will prepare ingredients, follow recipes, and ensure meals meet the highest quality and safety standards.

This role requires physical stamina, flexibility to work mornings, days, and weekends, and the ability to collaborate with Supervisors and a team to deliver exceptional guest experiences.

Qualifications

• Must have excellent interpersonal communication skills.
• Must thrive in a team environment with strong organizational skills.
• Ability to lift 50 lbs, push, pull, stock, and stand for long hours.
• Safety oriented and able to work in a fast-paced setting.
• Availability to work a flexible schedule including mornings, days, nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Prior catering or food service experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Demonstrates the ability to complete Banquet Event Orders (BEOs) in a timely, neat, and organized manner to the specifications of each dish and the needs of the guests.
• Prep proteins, chop, slice, dice, peel, and portion fruits and vegetables, following portion control, food quality, and safe food handling standards.
• Safely operate and sanitize all kitchen equipment.
• Follows approved recipes while ensuring proper cooking techniques and the highest quality standards.
• Understands the importance of controlling product costs by managing waste.
• High level quality control of all inventories, including food and kitchen equipment, ensuring that all product/inventory are properly rotated.
• Identifies, utilizes, and builds knowledge base of specific culinary terms (i.e. grilling, dicing, etc.)
• Practices “clean as you go” habits, and leaves the workspace clean, organized, and sanitized.
• Adheres to all CATZ and Health Department Guidelines.
• Strong communication with Supervisor for approval to leave assigned area for breaks, any guest service concerns, broken equipment, or problems with the kitchen areas.
• Manage closing duties including end of day kitchen inspection
• Performs other duties as assigned
• Adheres to Zoo policies and protocols

Skills

Interpersonal communication

Team player

Organizational skills

Safety oriented

Stamina/physical ability

Flexible schedule

Food service experience

Job description

Friends of Rosamond Gifford Zoo in Syracuse, NY is seeking a dedicated kitchen staff member to support banquet operations and daily food service. You will prepare ingredients, follow recipes, and ensure meals meet the highest quality and safety standards.

This role requires physical stamina, flexibility to work mornings, days, and weekends, and the ability to collaborate with Supervisors and a team to deliver exceptional guest experiences.