Grow your culinary experience at the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo and help deliver memorable moments at one of Calgary’s most unique locations! The Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo is seeking fixed-term Banquet Cooks who will join our Catering Back of House team as they slice, sear, and succeed - together!

Banquet Cooks are responsible for preparing and delivering food service as per the catering function sheet.

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.

Contract:

• Start: May 2026
• End: December 2026

What you will do:

• Create exceptional experience through high quality food and superior customer service
• Adhere to policies and procedures regarding sanitation and sanitary food handling.
• Prepare food as directed, following specifications on Event Orders.
• Ensures work area is clean, including all counter tops, utensils, equipment, and refrigeration is in a clean and sanitary condition in accordance with company health regulations and safety regulations.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of all storage areas
• Support other positions within the kitchen that is in need of help.
• Complies with the Zoo’s health and safety program
• Perform additional duties as required

What you will bring:

• 1-2 years experience in a culinary environment. Strong preference given to those with experience in mid to large sized operations
• A Driver’s License is required with the ability to operate golf carts and 1-ton panel trucks
• Alberta Food Safe Certifications is required.
• Red Seal Certificate is an asset.
• Ability to read and follow instructions as per catering function sheets.

Working Conditions:

• Able to work in fast pace environment
• Exposure to hot & cold elements in kitchen
• Periodical exposure outside the kitchen on Zoo grounds
• Consistent exposure to flora and fauna on Zoo grounds
• Flexible work schedule including early mornings, evenings, weekends and holidays
• Heavy lifting (up to 50 lbs), walking and standing for long periods of time required

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:

• 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 videoabout 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:
  • Confirm eligibility to work in Canada
  • If hired, when would you be available to start?
  • What is your availability throughout the week?
  • Do you have a driver’s licence?
  • Do you have Food Safety Certification?
  • If hired, what are your wage expectations?

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 April 30, 2026.

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 they will be contacted once applications have been reviewed and a final decision has been made.