Join our team at the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo and grow your experience at one of the most unique sites in Calgary! The Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo is seeking a permanent part-time (30 hours/week) Catering Setup Captain who will be responsible for directing a team of setup staff, ensuring all physical aspects of event readiness, from table arrangements and staging to equipment placement and decor, are flawlessly executed according to client specifications and floor plans.

The Catering Setup Captain will take proactive action with exceptional attention to detail, strong communication skills, and the capacity to manage concurrent, busy event schedules, including very early morning shifts, weekends, and holidays. This position is vital in delivering the high standards of presentation and service our clients expect.

Our Purpose | We act for wildlife; saving species and inspiring people to join us.

Our Core Values | Drive impact, nurture connection, cultivate hope, and be bold.

What you will do:

• Direct and motivate a team of set-up staff, providing clear instructions and ensuring tasks are completed efficiently and to the highest standards.
• Oversee and actively participate in the physical setup of banquet rooms and event spaces according to floor plans and client specifications. This includes arranging tables, chairs, staging, dance floors, and other equipment.
• Ensure all necessary equipment (linens, dishware, glassware, audiovisual (AV) equipment, etc.) is available, clean, and properly arranged. Report any damaged or missing items.
• Conduct thorough checks of event spaces before guests arrive to confirm all setup elements are correct, clean, and presentable.
• Work closely with the Catering Managers, Kitchen Staff, and other departments to ensure seamless event transitions and client satisfaction.
• Proactively identify and resolve any setup-related issues or last-minute changes that may arise.
• Follow and communicate all health, safety, and operational guidelines, ensuring a safe working environment for the team and guests.
• Assist with reading and interpreting event floor plans, technical riders, and Banquet Event Orders to determine AV and setup needs.
• Help with take down of events as needed
• Work collaboratively within a team-oriented environment.
• Deliver exceptional service and contributing to positive client experiences.
• Other duties as assigned.

What you will bring:

• At least 1 year of experience in hospitality and banquet services, particularly with setting up and preparing event spaces
• Strong verbal and written communication skills to support with delegating responsibilities to team, communicating with other catering staff, and supporting with guest interactions
• Ability to remain organized and complete tasks according to a clear schedule/timeline
• A high quality of work and attention to detail, as demonstrated by completing tasks according to instructions
• Dependability as demonstrated by consistently fulfilling commitments, both independently and within a team

Working Conditions:

• Consistent availability for very early morning shifts (e.g., 4:00 AM), including weekends and holidays, as dictated by event schedules.
• Ability to lift, push, and move heavy objects (up to 50 lbs), stand for extended periods, and perform duties requiring physical exertion.
• Can succeed in a fast-paced, deadline-driven setting.

The Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo is an outdoor facility and all staff working at the zoo must be comfortable working in a large variety of outdoor conditions. The Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo follows the advice of Environment Canada when responding to temperature and air quality issues.

What the Zoo Offers:

• Competitive compensation, vacation and flex days entitlement
• Flexible benefits plan, including a health spending account
• Employer matching RRSP program
• Discounts on food, beverage, and merchandise
• Participation in the Staff Pass Benefit plan
• A fun, rewarding work environment and the opportunity to work in a park full of wild animals

Are you ready to join one of Canada’s leaders in wildlife conservation? If this position suits your skills, experience and personal attributes, we want to talk to you.

Apply by doing the following:

• Watch this video about the conservation work being done at the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8J1VH1MBXm0)
• Submit your resume with an optional cover letter via our online application system.
• Fill in the Application questions:
  • If hired, when would you be available to start?
  • If hired, what would be your wage expectations for this position?
  • This role has a variable schedule that may require early mornings, weekends, and holidays. Do you have any scheduling limitations that we should be aware of?

Applicants must be legally entitled to work in Canada.

If this position is a fit for you, we encourage you to apply with a resume and cover letter online by August 20, 2025 at 4pm MST.

The Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo strives to cultivate a workplace in which everyone feels welcome and empowered to bring their authentic selves to work. As a conservation organization, we respect and value the diversity of all life and come together as individuals and teammates to achieve the organization’s mission and vision. We recognize the value of diversity, equity, and inclusion, and work to advance our culture to ensure diverse viewpoints are heard and everyone has an equitable chance to succeed and thrive.

All candidates are thanked for their applications and advised that only those selected for interviews will be contacted.