The opportunity
About this role
SSA Group is hiring a Jr. Sous Chef at Riverbanks Zoo and Garden in Columbia, SC. This full time role wants proven kitchen leadership experience. You will lead food production for guests and events while keeping your kitchen safe and on schedule.
Who You Are:
You are a steady leader who builds a strong team and real partnerships across departments.
You are a clear communicator with your team, your client contacts and company leadership.
You think fast and stay organized, solving problems without losing your cool.
You have a sharp eye for numbers, menus and planning.
You stay flexible and focused in a fast-paced kitchen.
You bring computer skills for basic office tasks like scheduling and ordering.
You bring the stamina to stand for long shifts, lift up to 35 pounds, and work nights, weekends and holidays as needed.
Who We Are:
SSA Group runs dining and hospitality at Riverbanks Zoo and Garden, a 170 acre zoological park, aquarium and botanical garden on the Saluda River in Columbia, SC that welcomes over one million visitors a year.
With 50 years in the business, SSA Group builds a plan for each partner instead of running one playbook everywhere.
Sustainability, inclusivity and innovation guide the work, and the company points to its start as a family business.
What You Will Do Each Day:
Supervise and help prepare high quality food for events and daily food service.
Train, coach and support your culinary team.
Monitor food safety, sanitation and proper cooking and holding temperatures.
Assist with menu pricing, food estimates and ordering for events.
Keep kitchen and storage areas clean and up to code.
Why You’ll Love Working Here:
Full time, onsite work in Columbia, SC.
Lead a culinary team at a destination that welcomes over one million visitors a year.
Grow with a hospitality company that has 50 years in the business.
Next Steps:
Ready to lead the kitchen as Riverbanks Zoo and Garden’s next Jr. Sous Chef? Complete the application below.
Meet the team
About SSA Group at Riverbanks Zoo and Garden
Riverbanks Zoo and Garden is a 170-acre zoological park, aquarium, and botanical garden situated along the Saluda River in Columbia and West Columbia, South Carolina. Opened on April 25, 1974, it welcomes more than one million visitors annually.

