Catering - Assistant Operations Manager

894 W Belmont Ave, Fresno, CA 93728, USA

Posted Thursday, January 8, 2026 at 8:00 AM

SSA Group at The Fresno Chaffee Zoo is looking for a talented Assistant Catering Operations Manager to join our team!

Who are we
:

For more than 50 years, SSA has partnered with cultural attractions to design the hospitality experience journey, freeing our partners to remain mission-focused.

We bring together admissions, culinary, and retail with innovation and human connection to shape a seamless guest journey.

Our focus is on people, innovation, and operational intelligence as a means to create special moments with lasting impact. We call it 452 Hospitality, the foundation of how we serve our partners and their communities.

Reports to: Catering Operations Manager

• Oversee quality, product levels and inventory of product.
• Progressively document and discipline employees to promote better work performances compliant to the company policies and procedures.
• Fulfill guest’s needs quickly and efficiently as well as resolve complaints effectively.
• Plan and schedule events with client.
• Promote a positive attitude among teammates and guests.
• Facilitate the maintenance and repairs of the facility and equipment as necessary.
• Support communication with vendors.
• Support and manage communication with the other Catering Manager(s) and/or Director and unit specific contacts.
• Comply with all food safety regulations and practices.
• Maintain client correspondence in a timely manner.
• Maintain a strong positive relationship with the client.
• Create eye catching & innovative displays with Executive Chef and implement with catering staff.
• Manage operations of events and oversee team when multiple events occur.
• Oversee catering training and orientation of staff according to the onsite handbook and set expectations by your guidance.
• Support management of payroll and controllable profit within established guidelines. Meet payroll budget percent expectations by being strategic with coverage, on-call shifts, etc.
• Manage employees in accordance with State and Federal labor laws.
• Schedule appropriate staff levels in accordance with budget and business forecast.
• Perform other tasks as deemed necessary.
• Maintain a clean, safe and organized work environment.
• Uphold and demonstrate a complete understanding of company policies and procedures.

• Promote an inclusive & supportive approach within the Brand team, with networking continuing at all units .
• Focuses on removing barriers and empowering growth and opportunity for team members at all levels .
• Leads by example through Sustainability/Conservation efforts; displays knowledge of efforts in business application as well as giving adequate opportunity for teaching to unit staff as necessary.
• Engages with SSA/Unit in driving community effort through engagement activities and focus. On opportunities of giving back .
• Live out 452 Hospitality by delivering warm, welcoming, and memorable experiences for every guest and client.

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, including the ability to articulate to our client, General Manager and HQ personnel.
• Proven leadership skills with an understanding of the importance of team building/development, while fostering partnerships.
• Exceptional problem solving/decision making skills combined with the ability to be organized.
• Demonstrates financial management, merchandising, analytical, planning and leadership skills.
• Demonstrates the ability to remain flexible in a fast-paced environment.
• Computer knowledge and skill level for basic office functions.
• Physical ability to stand for extended periods and to move and handle boxes (35lbs) as necessary to operation, which entails lifting, and perform all functions as set forth above.
• Ability to work varied hours/days, including nights, weekends and holidays, as needed.

• Two years catering operations and/or event planning management in off-site catering, hotel or cultural attraction catering venue.
• BEO knowledge and execution a must.
• All education backgrounds eligible.

This is by no means an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, skills, duties, requirements, efforts or…