Food Server - Part Time - San Diego Zoo Safari Park

San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance•Escondido, CA

9d•$20•Onsite

About The Position

San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is a nonprofit international conservation leader, committed to inspiring a passion for nature and creating a world where all life thrives. Empowering people from around the globe to support our mission to conserve wildlife through innovation and partnerships, we support cutting-edge conservation, and bring the stories of our work back to our two world-famous front doors — the San Diego Zoo and San Diego Zoo Safari Park — giving millions of guests, in person and virtually, the opportunity to experience conservation in action. The deep and extensive knowledge gained from more than a century of experience in wildlife care, health, veterinary services, nutrition and conservation makes us invaluable in the global effort to save species. Our team members play a crucial role in driving our conservation efforts forward and bringing us closer to a world where all life thrives. HOW YOU WILL IMPACT OUR MISSION The Food Server performs a variety of moderately difficult duties in greeting and taking orders from restaurant guests, serving guests, keeping assigned tables and areas clean and orderly. This position reports to the Lead Food Server, Manager and Supervisor. WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR The Mkutano House is an upcoming restaurant concept built around community, connection, and exceptional guest experiences. We are seeking passionate, reliable, and service-oriented individuals who are excited to help bring this vision to life from the ground up. If you excel in a fast-paced environment, take pride in your craft, and believe outstanding food is best enjoyed alongside genuine hospitality, you will find a strong sense of purpose here. This is more than a position—it is an opportunity to grow with a dedicated team, help shape a new dining destination, and contribute meaningfully from day one. Applicants must be at least 18 years old. Ability to work a flexible schedule including weekdays, evenings, weekends, and holidays. Please note, if you are selected for this role, you will be required to take a Registered Beverage Server (RBS) training course and pass an exam upon hire.

Requirements

At least one year of full service or fine dining restaurant experience.
Wine, premium beers and specialty cocktails
Standard menu items and daily specials
Cash handling procedures
Safety and sanitation methods used in the preparation and serving of food
Basic inventory controls and best practices
Basic usage and care of standard kitchen equipment and utensils
Guest service standards and policies
Operate and understand the cash register system
Proficiently handle cash and credit card transactions
Understand and carry out oral and written instructions
Make simple arithmetic calculations
Communicate effectively (verbal and written)
Interact tactfully and courteously with guests and employees
Work effectively in a team environment
Multi-task and prioritize to meet the demands of business
Work in a high volume, fast-paced environment
Work competently with large diverse groups of people
Perform required clean-up work

Responsibilities

Welcomes and greets guests
Takes and serves food and beverages orders tableside
Prepares certain menu items including salads, appetizers, and desserts
Advises customers’ regarding menu items
Make Customer Service a top priority
Politely and professionally answers guests’ questions regarding the Zoo or Safari Park
Professionally handle difficult situations with employees and guests
Keeps assigned areas clean, orderly and in a safe condition
Assists new personnel as needed
Assists (Lead, Cooks, Manager and Supervisor) as needed
Assists with special events when needed
Compliance with the SDZWA and Health Departments uniform standards
Maintains a passing grade on the County of San Diego Department of Environmental Health Food Handlers exams
Maintains a passing grade on the Environmental Health Department tests
Adheres to all SDZWA and department policies and practices
Performs related duties and responsibilities as required