Executive Sous Chef - Lead Culinary at a Zoo Kitchen

SSA Group; Jacksonville, Northern (FL, KY); Hybrid; USD 65,000 - 95,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Cell phone stipend

Flexible time off

Medical, dental, vision insurance

401(k) with company match

Parental leave support

Job summary

SSA Group at Jacksonville Zoo & Gardens is seeking an Executive Sous Chef to lead culinary operations, develop menu concepts, and train production staff. The role emphasizes quality, safety, and cost control within a high-volume, guest-focused environment.

The candidate will manage kitchen personnel, coordinate with operations, and ensure adherence to health and sanitation standards while delivering exceptional guest experiences at the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens.

Qualifications

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Proven leadership experience in high-volume kitchens.
• Solid problem solving and decision-making abilities.
• Financial management and cost-control skills.
• Knowledge of HAACP and food safety practices.

Responsibilities

• Interview, hire, evaluate, reward, and coach kitchen personnel; develop culinary training programs.
• Train staff in safe operating procedures and food production practices.
• Direct and coordinate production and dish room staff; ensure staffing efficiency.
• Maintain communications with Operations teams to ensure menu quality and standards.
• Plan menus based on market trends and customer preferences; price out menus for strategic pricing.
• Inspect locations for quality, sanitation, and staff appearance; ensure compliance with health regulations.

Skills

Communication

Leadership

Problem solving

Financial acumen

HAACP

Education

Culinary Arts Degree

ServSafe Certification

Job description

SSA Group at Jacksonville Zoo & Gardens is seeking an Executive Sous Chef to lead culinary operations, develop menu concepts, and train production staff. The role emphasizes quality, safety, and cost control within a high-volume, guest-focused environment.

The candidate will manage kitchen personnel, coordinate with operations, and ensure adherence to health and sanitation standards while delivering exceptional guest experiences at the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens.