Dining Manager, Cornell Dining

Cornell University•Ithaca, NY

2d•Onsite

About The Position

The Dining Manager works in close collaboration with a Senior Dining Manager to deliver an exceptional dining experience and ensure assigned all-you-care-to-eat units meet operational and financial goals. The role oversees daily menu execution, product quality, and visual presentation, maintaining high standards of freshness, consistency, and guest satisfaction throughout each meal period. The manager supports staff training and ongoing skill development, and reinforces food safety, sanitation, and quality-assurance practices to maintain a safe, compliant operation. The Dining Manager coaches employees on the floor, providing real-time feedback to strengthen performance, build confidence, and support professional growth. Through intentional leadership, the manager fosters teamwork, effective communication, and a positive environment where staff feel valued and empowered. The position also contributes to an inclusive, healthy work environment through respectful, cooperative, and welcoming conduct. The role is based on campus in Ithaca, New York. Unit assignments and schedules may change, and the successful applicant must be able to work varied and extended hours, including nights, weekends, and some holidays. Visa sponsorship is not available.

Requirements

Associate's degree in culinary arts, food service, hospitality management, or business management, and/or at least two years of food service experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Technical and computer skills, including experience with Microsoft Office Suite productivity tools.
Highly effective verbal and written communication skills.
Working knowledge of applicable food and health codes.
Demonstrated skill in understanding cultural differences.
Ability to work varied and extended hours, including nights, weekends, and some holidays.

Nice To Haves

Additional professional or educational experience, preferably in a high-quality collegiate dining program.
Familiarity with board plan operations and menu cycles.

Responsibilities

Build strong relationships with campus partners and foster a welcoming, service-focused environment.
Ensure excellent food and beverage service, including prompt responses to concerns.
Maintain a consistent management presence and ensure facilities are clean, attractive, safe, and prepared for guests and staff.
Provide hands-on staff training, daily coaching, motivation, and real-time feedback.
Support employee skill development and a productive team culture.
Understand key financial indicators and identify opportunities to improve efficiency, manage costs, and strengthen profitability.
Support regular shift meetings and help ensure staffing levels meet operational needs.
Uphold Dining and University policies by modeling and reinforcing standards.
Manage competing priorities while maintaining focus on guest experience and operational needs.
Oversee daily menu execution, product quality, and visual presentation.
Reinforce food safety, sanitation, and quality-assurance practices.
Promote teamwork, effective communication, and a positive, inclusive work environment.