Food Service Specialist - General Manager (OCA Mocha)

UMBC•Baltimore, MD

23d•Onsite

About The Position

OCA Mocha is a unique, multi-purpose community space designed to foster connection between the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC) and neighboring southwestern Baltimore County communities. The space brings two initiatives under one roof: OCA (Opportunities for Community Alliances) serves as UMBC's community hub, featuring an art gallery, performance stage, meeting room, and offices. OCA connects university resources to the public through programming, arts, outreach, and a student internship program. Mocha is the vibrant coffee shop at the heart of the space, owned and operated by UMBC. As the Food Service Specialist - General Manager of OCA Mocha, you will provide operational leadership to ensure smooth daily operations, exceptional service, and compliance with all University and Health Department standards. You will directly supervise staff, manage scheduling and training, and oversee daily workflow to keep the café running seamlessly. Serving as the primary operational liaison between OCA Mocha and UMBC leadership, you will bridge day-to-day hospitality with university collaboration.

Requirements

High School Diploma or GED.
Previous work experience in food service, café, hospitality, or retail operations.
Baltimore County Certified Food Service Manager Certification (or the ability to obtain it upon hire).
Knowledge of food safety, sanitation, and workplace safety requirements (or the ability to acquire required certifications).
Ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 30 pounds.

Nice To Haves

Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Hospitality, Business, or a related field.
Prior supervisory or management experience in a café, food service, hospitality, or retail environment.

Responsibilities

Direct daily café functions, oversee service execution, manage workflow, and coordinate staff to deliver a welcoming customer experience.
Lead, mentor, and support Shift Leads, Service Leads, and Product Leads in their day-to-day roles.
Enforce strict adherence to food safety standards, sanitation guidelines, Health Department regulations, cash-handling procedures, and University policies.
Oversee labor coverage, handle scheduling inputs, and make real-time operational adjustments during peak service hours.
Drive recruitment, onboarding, training, and ongoing performance support for all café staff.
Proactively communicate operational needs, staffing updates, and performance concerns to UMBC leadership.