Line Cook - Part Time - Safari Park; Mkutano

Job Description

Posted Wednesday, January 21, 2026 at 11:00 AM | Expires Thursday, February 5, 2026 at 10:59 AM

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 Line Cook works under minimal supervision and performs a variety of moderately difficult duties in the preparation and cooking of food in large quantities. This position reports to the Senior Line Cook and Sous Chef.

• Assists chef and Senior Line Cook in the overall planning and supervision of the kitchen
• Understands and Executes Complex Recipes
• Ensures Correct Plate Presentation
• Maintains Speed of Service
• Assists chef in menu planning
• Prepares and cooks menu items
• Ensures that preparations are complete for the day's menu
• Prepares main and side dishes for banquets and buffets
• Follows proper plate presentation and garnish set up for all dishes
• Ensures that the kitchens are maintained in a clean and orderly condition
• Oversees daily food preparation
• Corrects issues that affect food production, service or quality
• Provides support to the chefs, manager, supervisor, senior line cook and lead of the area
• Assists with new hire training and mentors staff
• Engages in the organization’s mission and vision
• Adheres to all SDZWA and department policies and practices

• JOB
  
  EXPERIENCE:
  
  Education, training and/or experience which clearly demonstrate the ability to perform the essential functions, knowledge and skills listed; an example would be experience as a cook or fry cook
• Experience in other restaurants and operations such as catering or fine dining; a degree in culinary arts is desirable
• EDUCATION AND
  
  CERTIFICATIONS:
  
  Completion of a commercial cooking apprenticeship or other vocational training certificate programs and/or experience
• SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE:
  Proper preparation and cooking methods for a wide variety of food items
• Proper usage and care of commercial kitchen equipment and utensils
• Sanitation and safety methods for food preparation and handling
• Inventory control procedures and best practices
• Informational Zoo facts
• Effective customer relations skills
• Effective leadership skills
• Cook and bake food in large quantities
• Understand recipes and menus
• Evaluate food condition, doneness, and decorations
• Operate commercial equipment and utensils correctly and safely
• Train and supervise cooks and kitchen helpers
• Communicate effectively (written and verbal)
• Keep simple records
• Use cash register (as needed)
• Accurately complete the period-end inventory
• Maintain a passing grade on Environmental Health Department tests
• Work in a high volume, fast-paced environment
• Work in a team environment and motivate others in a diverse environment
• Multi-task and prioritize
• Follow directions effectively
• Be a role model in all areas of performance
• Deal tactfully and courteously with others in a diverse environment
• Perform each essential job function at a high level

• Free admission to the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park
• Family Passes
• Complimentary Tickets
• Free Parking at the San Diego Zoo & San Diego Zoo Safari Park
• Local and In-House Discounts
• Employee Assistance Program

• Position Type:
  Hourly Part-Time Non-Exempt Union Position - If selected, there will be fees and dues to be paid to the union
• Hourly Rate: $24.07