Line Cook: Lead High-Volume Kitchen & Culinary Craft

San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance; Escondido (CA); On-site; USD 36,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

The San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is seeking a Line Cook to support mission by preparing food in large quantities with a positive attitude. This role reports to Retail Management and works under minimal supervision, contributing to kitchen operations, plate presentation, sanitation, and banquet prep.

You will follow recipes, assist culinary team, train and mentor staff, manage inventory, order supplies, and maintain a clean, high-volume kitchen while upholding safety standards and quality

Qualifications

• Experience as cook/fry cook; apprenticeship or vocational training is desirable.
• Food Handler's Card required within 30 days of hire.

Responsibilities

• Prepare recipes of increasing complexity and oversee daily kitchen production.
• Assist chef and culinary team in kitchen execution and plating.
• Maintain clean, safe, and organized kitchen areas; follow sanitation standards.
• Manage inventory, par sheets, and supplies.
• Train and mentor new cooks and kitchen staff.
• Support banquet, full-service, and QSR catering needs.

Skills

Food preparation

Large-volume cooking

Kitchen sanitation

Recipe execution

Team mentorship

Inventory management

Safety compliance

Quality control

Communication

Education

Culinary education or equivalent experience

Job description

The San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is seeking a Line Cook to support mission by preparing food in large quantities with a positive attitude. This role reports to Retail Management and works under minimal supervision, contributing to kitchen operations, plate presentation, sanitation, and banquet prep.

You will follow recipes, assist culinary team, train and mentor staff, manage inventory, order supplies, and maintain a clean, high-volume kitchen while upholding safety standards and quality