Seasonal Chef/ Cook at The Wilds

Columbus Zoo Family of Parks•Cumberland, OH

6d•Onsite

About The Position

Join The Wilds as a Seasonal Chef/Cook and bring your culinary skills to a one‑of‑a‑kind conservation setting. You’ll craft quality meals for guests, events, and camp programs, uphold top-tier food safety standards, and help create memorable experiences—all while working alongside a supportive team that values service, safety, and sustainability.

Requirements

Formal education in food preparation or extensive experience in a similar role.
3+ years’ experience in a food service environment.
Strong organizational skills with computer proficiency preferred.
Ability to make independent decisions and problem-solve efficiently.
Strong time-management skills for coordinating multiple dishes and deadlines.
Ability to follow recipes, portion standards, and presentation guidelines consistently.
Commitment to maintaining high-quality food presentation and taste standards.
Strong verbal and written communication skills.
Positive attitude with a commitment to excellent service and upholding guest service standards.
Ability to work a flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends and holidays.
Ability to stand on your feet for extended periods and lift up to 35–50 lbs as needed.
Ability to work in a hot, fast-paced kitchen environment and adapt to changing event needs.
Possession of a valid state-issued driver’s license and a good driving record.
Successfully complete a drug screening, criminal history background check, and BMV check.

Nice To Haves

Supervisory experience preferred.
ServSafe certified as Person in Charge is preferred.

Responsibilities

Provide high-quality food service for guests, special events, and camp programs in a fast-paced environment.
Serve as the primary Chef/Cook for either the breakfast or dinner shift.
Prepare and cook meals for catering, special events, and camp programs.
Perform opening and closing duties as required per shift.
Ensure compliance with ServSafe standards and maintain proper food safety and sanitation practices.
Follow all OSHA, FDA, and ServSafe food handling policies and procedures.
Adhere to emergency and safety procedures for food handling and kitchen operations.
Ensure all food temperatures (hot holding, cooling, reheating) meet regulatory standards and maintain logs as required.
Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitized kitchen and prep area throughout each shift.
Label, date, and rotate all food products according to FIFO (First In, First Out) standards.
Ensure safe operation of kitchen equipment, reporting malfunctions immediately.
Comply with The Wilds' emergency procedures, including severe weather, evacuation, and animal-related safety protocols.
Assist the Food & Beverage Manager, Coordinator, and Lead to ensure smooth daily operations.
Assist in training seasonal staff and maintaining adherence to company policies.
Monitor inventory levels and communicate shortages, waste, or equipment issues to leadership.
Assist with setup and breakdown of buffets, serving lines, and event-specific food stations.
Support sustainability efforts by minimizing food waste and following recycling/compost guidelines.