Seasonal Camp/Catering Prep Cook at The Wilds

Columbus Zoo Family of Parks•Cumberland, OH

16d

About The Position

Join the Food & Beverage team that helps power unforgettable guest experiences at The Wilds. As a Seasonal Camp/Catering Prep Cook, you’ll prepare fresh meals for campers, assist with catering events, and help create clean, organized, and welcoming dining environments—all while supporting our mission of conservation, education, and exceptional hospitality. Prepare and cook meals for camps and catering events, including setup and breakdown of those services.

Requirements

Customer service experience preferred.
Meal prep and cooking experience.
Experience in event preparation is preferred.
ServSafe certified (can train before starting).
Ability to follow recipes, prep lists, and production schedules.
Positive, professional attitude with strong interpersonal skills.
Ability to adapt easily in a fast-paced environment.
Strong decision-making and problem-solving skills.
Ability to operate a two-way radio.
Ability to work a flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
Ability to plan and organize work efficiently.
Reliable, punctual, and able to work independently with minimal supervision.
Be able to pass a pre-employment drug screening and criminal background check.
Must comply with The Wilds’ Food & Beverage safety policies and procedures at all times.

Nice To Haves

Customer service experience preferred.
Experience in event preparation is preferred.

Responsibilities

Prepare and cook meals for campers.
Learn and follow ServSafe guidelines to ensure a safe and sanitary food environment.
Maintain work areas, including restocking, inventory management, and cleaning.
Check all allergies/restrictions for campers and guests, always ensuring safety first. (original)
Assist with food prep, portioning, labeling, and safe storage following Wilds Food & Beverage protocols.
Ensure food presentation meets established Wilds catering and camp service standards.
Prepare and/or cook meals for camps and catering events; set up and take down these events.
Assist frontline and catering operations as needed.
Support the setup, restocking, and breakdown of buffet services, catering stations, and camp meal lines.
Follow event-specific timelines to support smooth and timely service delivery.
Carry out additional duties as assigned to support Food & Beverage operations.
Follow proper sanitation procedures for equipment, utensils, and food-contact surfaces throughout the shift.
Maintain kitchen, catering, and camp prep spaces to Wilds cleanliness standards, including dishwashing as assigned.
Adhere to Responsible Alcohol Service policies if assisting at events where alcohol is served.
Learn about The Wilds and its species to accurately answer guest questions.
Work collaboratively with other departments to ensure seamless operations.
Strive to further the mission of The Wilds and support the Zoo Family of Parks.
Maintain clear communication with the Food & Beverage Manager, Area Leads, Coordinators, and event staff.
Assist other Visitor Operations roles when necessary to support overall guest experience.