Dining Services Operation Specialist

Iowa Lakes Community College • Estherville, IA

87d • $19

About The Position

This is a full-time afternoon and early evening position (approximately noon to 8 p.m.) with occasional weekend events on the Emmetsburg Campus. The Dining Services Operation Specialist plays a vital role in ensuring the efficient and effective operation of the Dining Services department. This position involves culinary responsibilities, teamwork, and adherence to high-quality food standards.

Requirements

• High School Diploma or equivalent required.
• Culinary training or degree preferred.
• ServSafe Manager Certification or willingness to obtain required.
• Ability to represent the College in a positive, professional manner.
• Enthusiastic and energetic, able to deal effectively and courteously with students, staff, and the public.
• Ability to assume responsibility, deal effectively with problems, and exercise good judgement.
• Ability to read and understand written and oral instructions and to verbally issue directions.
• Ability to coordinate with other workers in a positive and effective manner.
• Ability to use common tools/equipment in the food service area.
• Familiarity with sanitation and safety procedures common to food service areas.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to multitask and work efficiently in a fast-paced setting.
• Flexibility in work schedule, including evenings, special catering events, weekends, and holidays.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and cook menu items using standardized recipes and portion sizes.
• Knowledge of measurement equivalents.
• Be able to operate all kitchen equipment (ovens, fryers, mixers, stoves, flat-tops, blenders, slicers, cutting utensils).
• Serve high quality and nutritious meals.
• Adhere strictly to food safety standards, including proper storage, handling, and cooking temperatures.
• Maintain a clean and organized kitchen environment, following sanitation guidelines and regulations.
• Oversight of part-time evening employees and work study students.
• Check event book for daily, weekly, and monthly events.
• Read the menu to estimate meal food requirements and ensure enough is available.
• Monitor inventory levels of food and kitchen supplies.
• Start a list of necessary ingredients and supplies when inventories become low.
• Collaborate with the team to plan and execute menus based on seasonality, dietary needs, and campus community preferences.
• Offer innovative ideas for new dishes and menu variations.
• Ensure cleanliness of kitchen equipment.
• Ensure floors are clean of debris, scrub floors, or wash dishes and pans.
• Run the Point-of-Sale System as needed.
• Serve food on the cafeteria line as needed.
• Coverage for weekend events.
• Report any equipment malfunctions immediately to the Dining Services Supervisor.
• Conduct regular quality checks on ingredients, finished dishes, and presentation before serving.
• Ensure compliance with health and safety regulations and maintain accurate records.
• Other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Paid sick leave, vacation, and holidays.
• Employee health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Partially funded family insurance available.
• Employee life and disability insurance.
• Employee retirement plan.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Industry: Educational Services
• Education Level: High school or GED