Dining Operations Manager

About the role

The Dining Operations Manager plays a critical leadership role within Amherst College Dining Services, supporting the College's mission by ensuring exceptional foodservice experiences in the Student Center and across campus dining environments. This position is responsible for communicating and executing the department's vision, mission, and goals while maintaining the highest standards of service, quality, and hospitality.

Responsibilities

• Manage all daily foodservice operations within the Student Center and other campus dining venues, ensuring excellence in service, efficiency, and guest satisfaction.
• Provide leadership, direction, and support to service teams, reinforcing standards for food quality, portion control, presentation, and timely service.
• Ensure adherence to food safety protocols, sanitation practices, and standard operating guidelines (HACCP, allergen awareness, and Amherst College policies).
• Maintain accurate menu identifiers and transparency around dietary information for students, faculty, staff, and guests.
• Hire, train, supervise, schedule, and evaluate service staff across multiple dining spaces, fostering continuous improvement and team cohesion.
• Develop and deliver ongoing training in customer service, safety, equipment use, and departmental procedures.
• Support engagement, morale, motivation, and recognition of team members to maintain a productive and positive work culture.
• Monitor service flow, customer interactions, and feedback to ensure consistent, high-quality dining experiences in all operational areas.
• Predict and respond to service challenges, adjusting staffing or workflow as needed to maintain efficiency and guest satisfaction.
• Collaborate with culinary, production, and administrative teams to support menu execution, special dietary needs, and operational adjustments.
• Oversee operational standards for cash handling, point-of-sale systems, and financial reconciliation.
• Review and approve timesheets, ensuring compliance with labor guidelines and accurate timekeeping.
• Maintain inventory and supply controls, track usage trends, and identify opportunities for cost savings or efficiency improvements.
• Ensure compliance with College policies, departmental procedures, and all relevant health and safety regulations.
• Oversee maintenance and functionality of dining equipment and spaces in the Student Center and other dining locations.
• Submit and track work orders, coordinate vendor services, and ensure timely repairs to prevent disruptions.
• Evaluate space and equipment utilization to support long-term planning and improved workflow efficiency.
• Maintain strict cleanliness and sanitation standards at all times, both before and after service hours.
• Support college-wide and student-driven events by providing operational expertise, staffing coordination, and flexible service solutions.
• Adapt dining operations to accommodate special schedules, seasonal needs, visiting groups, and institutional initiatives.
• Proactively create and engineer excellent student and guest experiences through collaboration with departmental and campus partners.

Qualifications

• A High School Diploma or equivalent.
• 7-10 years of progressive foodservice and operational management experience.
• Equivalent work experience in lieu of minimum education and related experience; proven proficiency in math, reading, and writing.
• A valid driver's license and successful credentialing is required in order to operate college vehicles.
• Extensive knowledge of contemporary food trends.
• Experience with P&L and financial accountability.
• Proven leadership and coaching.
• Strong written and verbal communication.
• High-level interpersonal skills, including conflict management.
• Proficiency with computer systems and technology.
• SERVSafe certified.
• Allertrain certified.
• Successful completion of required reference and background checks.
• An acceptable criminal offender records information (CORI) check.
• Successful completion of pre-employment physical and lift test.

Benefits

Amherst College is pleased to provide a comprehensive, highly competitive benefits package that meets the needs of staff and faculty and their families. Click here for Benefits Information.