Catering Server

We are seeking an experienced banquet server to support catered events at the San Francisco Zoo. This is part-time, event-based employment with shifts scheduled according to event needs. Interested employees may have opportunities to pick up additional hours in Food and Beverage. The role serves guests in indoor and outdoor venues, from setup through breakdown.

Key Responsibilities

• Set and reset tables, linens, place settings, buffets, beverage stations, and service areas.

• Provide polished plated, buffet, passed, and beverage service according to the event timeline and lead direction.

• Communicate event details and changes with the event captain, chefs, dining staff, and other teams.

• Know menu components; confirm dietary and allergen questions with the culinary or event lead before responding.

• Serve alcohol within assigned duties and training; check identification and follow responsible service procedures.

• Replenish food, beverages, and supplies; keep service areas presentable and report maintenance concerns.

• Maintain HACCP program requirements, follow food safety and event instructions, and actively prevent accidents.

• Assist with breakdown, cleanup, equipment loading, and final room reset; participate in occasional warehouse organization and preparation days.

• Attend event briefings, monitor assigned service areas, and adjust service as directed when needs change.

• Follow SF Zoo catering standards, service values, and ethics.

Operations and Leadership Responsibilities

• Partner with Food Service leadership to communicate necessary details and changes to dining, catering, kitchen, and other departments.

• Participate in dining and catering operations, staff development, training, and supervision, including hiring, performance evaluations, coaching, and disciplinary action as needed.

• Oversee dining floor and catering operations during service, adjusting as needed to maintain excellent service standards.

• Coordinate regular cleaning and needed maintenance with staff, custodial, and maintenance teams to keep facilities clean and functional.

• Attend Food Service leadership meetings to discuss upcoming groups, staffing, the dining program, spiritual formation, and event planning.

• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• At least one year of banquet service experience and two years of restaurant or comparable table service experience.

• Hands-on food service experience and working knowledge of menu presentation, service sequence, catering etiquette, dietary needs, and food allergens.

• Current TIPS alcohol certification and a current FOOD HANDLER’S CARD.

• Ability to work an on-call schedule that may include evenings, weekends, and holidays, based on event needs.

• Strong guest service and communication skills; dependable, punctual, and able to work efficiently with a team.

• Ability to stand and move throughout service and lift and carry catering supplies and equipment as the assignment requires.

• Well-groomed, professional appearance in the required uniform; no large visible piercings or visible tattoos with offensive content while on duty.

Preferred Experience

• Experience with large guest counts, formal or VIP events, tray passing, beverage service, or kitchen work is a plus. Ability to read and understand banquet event orders (BEOs) and catering terminology is also preferred.

Who We Are:

• SSA Group runs dining, retail, and admissions at San Francisco Zoo and Gardens, home to more than 1,500 exotic, endangered, and rescued animals.

• The zoo is open 365 days a year, working to connect people with wildlife and advance conservation.

• SSA has partnered with cultural attractions for more than 50 years, focused on the guest experience.

Why You'll Love Working Here:

• Pay: $22 an hour

• Part time, onsite work at San Francisco Zoo.

Next Steps:

Ready to join SSA Group as a Catering Associate at San Francisco Zoo? Complete the application below.