Catering Chef

Wildlife Conservation Society; New York (NY); On-site; USD 75,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Wildlife Conservation Society is seeking a Catering Chef to lead the events and catering operation at the Bronx Zoo. You will oversee menu production, event execution, staff supervision, inventory control, and cost management, reporting to the Executive Chef.

The role emphasizes strong leadership, culinary expertise, and adherence to food safety standards while driving exceptional guest experiences at a premier zoo venue.

Qualifications

• 5+ years in a managerial role in high-volume catering
• Strong leadership, communication and problem-solving abilities

Responsibilities

• Oversee menu production and event execution
• Supervise staff, scheduling, coaching and performance
• Manage inventory, cost controls and kitchen cleanliness
• Maintain food safety standards per NYC DOH and internal policies
• Coordinate with Executive Chef on recipes and costing
• Ensure sustainability guidelines are followed

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Problem-solving

Education

Culinary degree or certification

NYC food handler/ServSafe certificate

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Job Description

Job Description

Position: Catering Chef

Reports to: Executive Chef

Position Managed: Catering Sous Chef, Part-Time Employees, Seasonal Associates

Location: Bronx Zoo / On Site

Department: Events & Catering

Scope: Bronx Zoo

Position Type: Full Time

Salary: 75,000 - 85,000

About Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS):

WCS stands for wildlife and wild places. As the world's premier wildlife conservation organization, WCS has a long track record of achieving innovative, impactful results at scale. We run field programs spanning 60 countries and the entire ocean. We build on a uniquefoundation: Our reach is global; we discover through best-in-class science; we protect throughwork on the ground with local and indigenous people; we inspire through our world-class zoos,aquarium, and education programs; and we leverage our resources through partnerships andpowerful policy influence. Our more than 4,000 diverse, passionately committed team membersin New York City and around the world work collectively to achieve our conservation mission.

Position Summary:

This role will be the primary culinary leadership for the events & catering operation. You will oversee production of catering menus, the execution of events, supervision of staff, inventory and cost controls, kitchen cleanliness, equipment maintenance, and the overall service of guests.

Principal Responsibilities (include but are not limited to):

• Responsible for menu planning, food purchasing, and food transportation throughout the Zoo.
• Responsible for the development of production documents in accordance with the Executive Chef's policies and procedures on executing catered events.
• Assists with managing overall kitchen expenses by managing food and supplies inventory and limiting product waste.
• Directly responsible for managing the preparation, production, presentation, and execution of food products for events. As well as assisting daily food service operations in these areas.
• Interview, select, train, schedule, coach, and support associates, ensuring they perform in accordance with established standards and norms.
• Responsible for updating costs for recipes and maintenance of menu database.
• Maintain food safety standards in accordance with the NYC Department of Health's requirements, as well as internal Compliance Manager's standards and requirements.
• Follow sustainability guidelines and practices set by WCS's Business Operations leadership.
• Communicates with Executive Chef and culinary team, providing feedback on any issues including but not limited to staff, product, and processes to ensure all goals are met.
• Perform additional responsibilities as directed by Catering Chef.

Qualification Requirements

• 5 years' experience in a managerial position of a high-volume food service establishment preferred with a focus on executing catered events.
• Culinary Degree or certification from an accredited culinary program preferred.
• NYC food handlers' certificate and or Servsafe certificate preferred and may be asked to obtain after hire.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office
• Strong management skills in leadership, communication, and problem-solving abilities
• Valid driver’s license

Workplace Conditions and Environment:

The workplace conditions and environment of the role include working indoors, closely with others, and/or alone, exposure to excess noise, operating power tools and equipment, and use sharp tools and equipment.

Equal Employment Opportunity Disclaimer:

WCS is an equal opportunity employer, and the organization complies with all employment and labor laws and regulations that prohibit discrimination in hiring and ensures that candidates from all backgrounds are fairly and consistently considered during the recruitment process. We are dedicated to hiring and engaging in a diverse workforce. We are committed to cultivating an inclusive work environment and looking for future team members who share that same value. The organization provides equal employment opportunities for all qualified candidates. The organization does not discriminate for employment based on gender, race/ethnicity, religion, color, national origin, sex, age, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, citizenship status, caste, genetic information or any other covered status or characteristic protected by laws and regulations/and similar categories.

It is everyone's responsibility to ensure that we do not tolerate discrimination or harassment based upon a person's membership in one of these protected categories in areas such as recruitment, selection, job assignment, supervision, training, promotions, promotions, job grading, transfers, termination, compensation, benefits, educational opportunities, WCS sponsored recreational activities and facilities. The organization complies with the spirit and intent of relevant local laws and WCS's employment policies.

Note that the salary offer will reflect the selected candidate's individual experiences, skills and qualifications, internal equity, work location and country of work.

Salary Range

$75,000 - $85,000