Associate

About the Role

SSA Group at The Fresno Chaffee Zoo is looking for a talented On Call Catering Associate. For over 50 years, SSA has partnered with cultural attractions to design hospitality experiences, focusing on people, innovation, and operational intelligence to create special moments with lasting impact.

Key Responsibilities

• Live out 452 Hospitality by delivering warm, welcoming, and memorable experiences.
• Oversee quality, product levels, and inventory.
• Fulfill guest needs quickly, efficiently, and resolve complaints effectively.
• Meet expectations for event setup, execution, breakdown, and cleanup.
• Execute back of the house, front of the house, and side work duties for banquet event productivity.
• Express knowledge of menus, food presentation, and food service techniques with guest service in mind.
• Perform strenuous manual labor, including equipment storage and event setup/tear down.
• Support placement, movement, and storage of rental orders, buffet cards, and catering items.
• Support supervisors and managers with event problems and provide creative solutions.
• Maintain a friendly and approachable attitude towards clients, guests, and staff.
• Communicate clearly and openly with leaders.
• Display a sense of urgency at all times.
• Uphold a professional appearance and mannerism.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work environment.
• Perform other tasks as deemed necessary.
• Uphold and demonstrate a complete understanding of company policies and procedures.

Requirements & Tech Stack

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, including the ability to articulate to clients, General Manager, and HQ personnel.
• Excellent problem-solving/decision-making skills combined with the ability to be organized.
• Ability to remain flexible in a fast-paced environment.
• Operate all necessary equipment.
• Physical ability to stand for extended periods, move and handle boxes (up to 35lbs), lift, and perform all job functions.
• Ability to work varied hours/days, including nights, weekends, and holidays.

Qualifications

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

Compensation and Benefits

• Eligible for overtime pay.
• On-Demand Pay Program: Access 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 (eligibility requirements apply).
• Tuition Discount through Partnership College.
• Up to 8 hours of Bereavement Leave.
• Holiday pay of 1.5x the regular rate for hours worked on Christmas Day and Thanksgiving Day.
• Paid sick leave in accordance with applicable state and local laws.