Catlett Marketplace - Assistant Manager

University of Iowa•Iowa City, IA

13d•Onsite

About The Position

University Housing & Dining is seeking to fill an Assistant Manager position in our Marketplace to ensure the quality and presentation of foods prepared and served within the University Housing Residential Dining Marketplaces and other areas of University Dining as assigned. In this role, responsibilities include but are not limited to ensuring the quality and presentation of foods prepared and served within the University Housing Residential Dining Market Places and other areas of University Dining as assigned. Additionally, you will be responsible for scheduling, training, supervising, and coordinating the work of assigned staff as well as performing administrative duties, including the oversight of inventory control related to operational production and product ordering. This role will also collaborate with the management team to coordinate special dinners and events. This position will also be responsible for supporting and implementing the Iowa GROW program with student employees as a part of our commitment to student success.

Requirements

A Bachelor’s degree in Dietetics, Foods and Nutrition, Institutional Management, Hotel & Restaurant Administration or related field; or an equivalent combination of education and supervisory experience.
Experience (typically 6 mo-1yr) in preparation and distribution of foods
Experience (typically 6mo-1yr) in food service management, including staff supervision, training, and inventory control.
Proficient in the use of Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook) software applications.
Demonstrates excellent written and verbal communication skills. Ability to effectively transmit, receive and accurately interpret ideas, information, and needs through appropriate communication methods and behaviors at a working proficiency level.
Demonstrates the ability to adjust and develop self to prepare for new or changing assignments, processes, people or priorities as organizational needs dictate at a working proficiency level.
Experience creating and maintaining a welcoming and respectful environment
Demonstrates a working proficiency in the ability to provide excellent customer service and to meet or exceed customer service needs
Ability to obtain and maintain ServSafe certification within 6 months of hire

Nice To Haves

Working experience in a large-scale food service operation
Working experience with electronic timekeeping systems, inventory systems, and POS systems

Responsibilities

Oversee Food Preparation & Service — Ensures high‑quality production and presentation of menu items in a marketplace dining environment.
Supervise & Develop Staff — Leads, trains, schedules, evaluates, and coaches full‑time and student employees.
Coordinate Daily Operations — Manages workflow, assigns duties, and ensures smooth service throughout all operating hours.
Lead Staff Meetings & Communication — Facilitates team meetings and maintains clear communication with staff and campus partners.
Manage Inventory & Ordering — Oversees inventory levels, purchasing, receiving, and stock rotation using departmental systems.
Ensure Safety & Sanitation Compliance — Maintains Iowa Health Code standards and ensures safe use and maintenance of equipment.
Support Special Events & Menu Execution — Collaborates with management to plan and execute special dinners and campus events.
Provide Customer Service Leadership — Ensures staff deliver excellent service, resolves customer concerns, and monitors service quality.
Analyze Operational Issues & Improve Processes — Identifies trends, recommends improvements, and implements efficiency‑boosting changes.
Maintain Facility Standards — Ensures the dining facility meets institutional expectations for cleanliness, service, and functionality.
Perform Administrative & HR Functions — Handles interviewing, hiring, performance documentation, and recognition programs.
Foster a Collaborative Work Environment — Promotes teamwork, professional growth, and positive workplace culture.