Banquet Lead - Part Time - San Diego Zoo

San Diego Zoo Safari Park; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 30,000 - 39,000; Full time

Job summary

San Diego Zoo Safari Park is seeking a Banquet Lead to oversee event execution, food and beverage service, and staff supervision for on-site banquet events. You will coordinate setup, maintain safety standards, and ensure top-notch guest experiences in a fast-paced environment.

The role emphasizes leadership, strong customer service, and teamwork within the Retail Management scope to deliver “Best in Class” catering at the Zoo and Safari Park.

Qualifications

• Two or more years of experience in a zoo or theme park environment preferred.
• Leadership and staff supervision experience preferred.
• Knowledge of food service safety and sanitation practices expected.

Responsibilities

• Oversee event operations, room setup, and food/beverage execution for banquet events.
• Lead banquet employees, train and coach staff, and ensure safety and service standards.
• Deliver best-in-class guest service from arrival to departure and educate guests on menu items.

Skills

Leadership

Customer service

Multitasking

Communication

Food service knowledge

Education

High School Diploma

Job description

HOW YOU WILL IMPACT OUR MISSION

The Banquet Lead under direction oversees event execution including a variety of moderately difficult duties in the serving of food orders to customers, setting and clearing properly; presents and serves food and beverages in an attractive, safe and efficient manner. This position reports to the Retail Management. This position requires constant fulfillment of all facets of catering to ensure customers at the Zoo or the Safari Park are served in a prompt, courteous and efficient manner; must assist the Retail office in clarification of details of catered events and recommend improvements to enhance service or customer satisfaction. Responsible for execution of “Best in Class” Banquet events. May assist in other Retail outlets as needed.

WHAT YOU WILL DO

Event Execution – Responsible for oversight of event operations and employees, room setup and reset, food and beverage execution and coordination of catering events ensuring the highest standards of hospitality. Oversees the execution and fulfilment of event according to the established banquet booking order. Adapts to last minute schedule or contract changes. Transportation of banquet food and supplies and communicates effectively with Chef/Back of House team. Completes event orders and associated paperwork in a correct and timely manner.

Employee Oversight

Oversees banquet employees including, but not limited to, training, mentoring, and coaching. Works with other organizational departments to ensure successful execution of all banquet events. Facilitate a positive environment amongst staff, an environment where professional ideas are encouraged. Coaches and develops talent through the understanding of different learning styles and provides performance feedback. Ensures team’s compliance of safety, banquet execution best practices, sanitation and alcohol awareness standards.

Guest Service

Ensures team is providing “Best in Class” guest service including greeting guests upon arrival to venue and escorting guests to and from scheduled activity locations. Educates team to advise guests regarding menu items.

Facility Upkeep

Cleans and maintains Banquet equipment and facilities. Assigns tasks and completes cleaning logs. Follow best practice standards established by Retail Management.

Inventory

Oversees inventory. Orders items and supplies for events. Operates point of sale and inventory system.

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR

JOB EXPERIENCE

Education, training, or work experience which would perform the essential duties, knowledge and skills outlined; Lead and supervise responsibilities; effective customer service skills; an example would be two or more years of experience working in a Zoo or Theme Park environment preferred.

EDUCATION AND CERTIFICATIONS

High School Diploma Required

• RBS Training within 30 days
• Food Handler’s Card within 30 days

SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE

• Methods, materials and equipment used in food service
• Safety rules and regulations
• All menu items including ingredients and cooking methods
• Inventory controls, procedures and best practices
• Basic computer usage
• Effective leadership practices
• Operates and understand the point of sale and inventory system
• Keeping accurate and detailed records
• Multi-task and prioritize to meet the demands of business
• Work competently with large groups in a diverse environment
• Perform each Essential job function at a high level
• Understand and carry out instructions
• Communicate clearly and positively concerning all facets of a function