Executive Chef

San Francisco Zoo, San Francisco, California, United States of America

Job Description

Posted Tuesday, October 15, 2024 at 6:00 AM

SSA Group at San Francisco Zoo is looking for a talented Executive Chef to join our team!

Please note that for this position, we accept applications on an ongoing basis. There is no set deadline for submitting your application. We encourage interested candidates to apply at any time via our website at thessagroup.com, and we will review applications as they are received.

Executive Chef

Who are we:

SSA Group works with zoos, aquariums, museums, and other cultural attractions on integrating dining, retail, admissions and more. We increase revenue opportunities for partners across the United States. With 50 years in the business, SSA has refined the basics while pioneering better ways forward.

Position Title: Executive Chef

Reports to: General Manager

Responsibilities

• Interview, hire, evaluate, reward, and progressively coach kitchen personnel as appropriate.
• Develop culinary training programs for food production employees and serve as a culinary resource to promote quality food services.
• Train kitchen personnel in safe operating procedures of all equipment, utensils, and machinery, as well as food production principles and practices.
• Assist General Manager with accurate forecast of weekly and monthly sales as necessary.
• Direct and coordinate the work of production and dish room staff.
• Maintain a close relationship with the client’s staff to ensure a positive working relationship.
• Manage employees in accordance with State and Federal labor laws.
• Maintain a clean, safe and organized work environment.
• Uphold and demonstrate a complete understanding of company policies and procedures.
• Perform the steps of SSA EXTRA Guest Service to ensure a memorable experience for every guest and client.
• Supervise period end inventory for all food and beverage areas.
• Direct and participate in the daily preparation of standard and gourmet food items.
• Monitor and track proper cooking and holding temperatures.
• Establish maintenance schedules in conjunction with manufacturer's instructions for all equipment.
• Ensure overall consistency and high quality across the various operations; plan menus based on market trends, customer preferences and nutritional considerations.
• Inspect all locations to observe quality of food preparation and service; food appearance; and cleanliness and sanitation of production and service areas.
• Place all food product orders and assist with shipping, receiving, and distribution, and maintain communication with vendors.
• Evaluate the quality of raw food and ensure the quality of the finished products.
• Implement and enforce sanitary practices for food handling, general cleanliness, and maintenance of kitchen and/or dining areas.
• Comply with all food safety regulations and practices.
• Process invoices to office team ensuring smooth communication so that all vendors are paid within terms.
• Manage all operational functions of the Culinary aspects within the Unit’s operation.
• Control food cost within HQ purchasing specifications, storeroom requisition systems, product storage requirements, standardization recipes and waste control procedures.
• Prepare operational reports and analyses setting forth progress, trends and make appropriate recommendations.
• Analyze sales and inventory to maximize opportunities.
• Manage payroll and controllable profit within established guidelines.
• Schedule appropriate staff levels in accordance with budget and business forecast.
• Set precedent to achieve Sales, Per Cap & Controllable Budget.
• Incorporate sustainable resources into the culinary selections.
• Promote an inclusive & supportive approach at the Unit.
• Support unit in being an example for Company & Client guidelines with regard to Sustainability/Conservation efforts.
• Perform other tasks as deemed necessary.

Job Requirements

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Proven leadership skills with an understanding of team building/development.
• Exceptional problem solving/decision making skills.
• Demonstrates financial management, merchandising, analytical, planning and leadership skills.
• Demonstrates the ability to remain flexible in a fast-paced environment.
• Computer knowledge and skill level for basic office functions.
• Physical ability to stand for extended periods and to move and handle boxes (35lbs).
• Ability to work varied hours/days, including nights, weekends and holidays, as needed.

Previous Experience

• Five years Chef experience in high volume restaurant, country club, catering or cultural attraction venue.
• Culinary Arts Degree.
• ServSafe Certified.
• Knowledge of HAACP.

This is by no means an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, skills, duties, requirements, efforts or working conditions associated with this job description. SSA Group reserves the right to revise the job description or to require that other or different tasks are performed when circumstances change.

SSA Group, LLC. is an equal opportunity employer. We embrace diversity and equal opportunity through our commitment to building a team that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills.

Compensation and Benefits

• Full-Time
• Vacation or TAFW (time away from work) Plan
• Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance; employee premiums applicable
• Short-Term Disability and Long-Term Disability, employer sponsored
• Birthing Parent Plan covers up to (6-8) weeks fully paid leave
• (4) Week fully paid Parental leave following birth, adoption or foster event
• 401k program, eligible for enrollment after (1) year of employment
• $75 monthly cell phone stipend

All California Residents: By submitting your job application, you agree you have reviewed the SSA Group California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) Candidate and Employee Privacy Notice.

San Francisco Residents: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.