CATERING & EVENTS - Chef de Cuisine (Full-Time)

Catering Chef

Bronx Zoo (On-Site)

Department: Events & Catering

Reports To: Executive Chef

Catering Sous Chef, Part-Time Team Members, Seasonal Associates

Position Type: Full-Time

Join the Culinary Team Behind One of New York City's Most Unique Event Venues

The Bronx Zoo hosts hundreds of memorable events each year, from elegant galas and corporate gatherings to weddings and private celebrations. We are seeking an experienced and passionate Catering Chef to lead our catering culinary operation and help create exceptional guest experiences in one of New York City's most distinctive settings.

This is an opportunity for a chef who thrives in a fast-paced, high-volume environment and enjoys balancing culinary creativity, operational excellence, and team leadership. The Catering Chef serves as the culinary leader for all catered events across the Bronx Zoo campus, partnering closely with the Executive Chef and Events team to deliver outstanding food, service, and hospitality.

Lead Culinary Operations

Oversee all culinary production and execution for catered events throughout the Bronx Zoo.

Lead menu implementation, event preparation, presentation, and service execution.

Collaborate with the Executive Chef on menu development, seasonal offerings, and special event concepts.

Ensure consistency, quality, and presentation standards across all catered events.

Recruit, train, mentor, and coach culinary team members.

Foster a positive, collaborative kitchen culture focused on excellence and professional growth.

Support the development of future culinary leaders within the organization.

Manage food purchasing, inventory, and product distribution across the Zoo.

Monitor food and labor costs while maintaining exceptional quality standards.

Develop and maintain production schedules, recipes, and event execution documents.

Champion Food Safety and Quality

Ensure proper sanitation, equipment maintenance, and safe food handling practices.

3+ years of culinary leadership experience in high-volume catering, banquet, hospitality, or event operations.

Proven experience executing multiple events while maintaining exceptional food quality and guest satisfaction.

Experience managing inventory, food costs, and labor budgets.

Culinary degree or professional culinary certification preferred.

NYC Food Handler's Certification and/or ServSafe Certification preferred (or willingness to obtain after hire).

Proficiency with Microsoft Office and standard culinary management systems.

Lead culinary operations at one of New York City's most iconic destinations.

Work alongside a passionate culinary and events team.

Opportunity to influence menus, operations, and team development.