Catering - Associate

About the role

The SSA Group at The Fresno Chaffee Zoo is seeking an On Call Catering Associate to deliver warm, welcoming, and memorable experiences for every guest and client. This role supports the execution of catered events, including setup, service, breakdown, and cleanup, while maintaining high standards of food quality, presentation, and guest satisfaction.

Responsibilities

• Live out 452 Hospitality by delivering exceptional guest and client experiences.
• Oversee quality, product levels, and inventory of catering products.
• Fulfill guest needs quickly and efficiently; resolve complaints effectively.
• Ensure proper setup, execution, breakdown, and cleanup of each catered event.
• Perform back of house, front of house, and side work duties as assigned.
• Demonstrate knowledge of menus, food presentation, and food service techniques with a focus on guest service.
• Perform strenuous manual labor as required (equipment storage, event setup, tear down of tables and chairs).
• Support placement, movement, and storage of rental orders, buffet cards, and catering items.
• Assist Catering Supervisor(s) and Catering Operations Manager in resolving event issues and providing creative solutions.
• Maintain a friendly and approachable attitude toward clients, guests, and staff.
• Communicate clearly and openly with leadership for overall success.
• Display a sense of urgency at all times and uphold a professional appearance and mannerism.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work environment.
• Perform other tasks as deemed necessary by leadership.
• Uphold and demonstrate a complete understanding of company policies and procedures.

Requirements

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, including the ability to articulate to clients, General Manager, and HQ personnel.
• Excellent problem-solving and decision-making skills with the ability to stay organized.
• Demonstrated ability to remain flexible in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to operate all equipment necessary to perform job duties.
• Physical ability to stand for extended periods and move/handle boxes (35 lbs) as needed, including lifting and performing all required functions; accommodations available upon request.
• Ability to work varied hours/days, including nights, weekends, and holidays, as needed.

IDEA + Belonging

• Promote an inclusive and supportive approach within the Brand team, fostering networking at all levels.
• Focus on removing barriers and empowering growth and opportunity for team members at all levels.
• Lead by example through sustainability and conservation efforts; share knowledge with unit staff as necessary.
• Engage with SSA/Unit in driving community efforts through engagement activities and giving-back opportunities.

Preferred Experience

• Catering and/or event industry experience is a plus.
• All educational backgrounds are eligible.

Benefits

• Eligible for overtime pay.
• On-Demand Pay Program: Access to a portion of earned wages before payday.
• Meal Plan & Employee Discounts at applicable locations.
• Participation in a 401(k) program with a 15% company match (must be 21 years or older, eligible after one year of employment with 1,000 hours worked, available to enroll during Open Enrollment Periods).
• Tuition Discount through Partnership College.
• Up to 8 hours of Bereavement Leave.
• Holiday pay of 1.5× the regular rate for hours worked on Christmas Day and Thanksgiving Day.
• Paid sick leave provided in accordance with applicable state and local laws (accrual rates, caps, and usage rules vary by location).