Food Service Supervisor 1 - SURC Kitchen

About the Role

Central Washington University is seeking a Food Service Supervisor 1 to join the SURC Kitchen team in Ellensburg, Washington. This 10.5-month cyclic, campus-based position plays a key role in enhancing the university's vision by overseeing food quality, service standards, and culinary execution within Student Union Dining Operations. The role involves supervising daily kitchen and front-of-house operations, ensuring proper food preparation, presentation, and safe handling in high-volume campus dining environments.

This position coordinates multiple service periods or events, trains and guides student employees and staff in station setup, sanitation, service execution, and culinary techniques, and monitors employee performance and schedules. The Food Service Supervisor embodies both the university and Dining Services' vision, mission, and values, fostering a culture of student success and inclusivity.

Responsibilities

• Assigns tasks and monitors daily operations according to established guidelines, procedures, and policies.
• Ensures employees have necessary resources, including ingredients, equipment, and tools for proper food preparation and service.
• Maintains consistent oversight of food quality, presentation, and cleanliness of display areas; ensures proper allergen labeling and takes immediate action to resolve issues.
• Verifies adequate quantities of food are prepared, merchandised, and presented on service lines in accordance with quality and safety standards.
• Uses huddles, end-of-shift reports, coaching, and feedback to communicate operational practices among staff and students.
• Identifies and addresses potential safety hazards, submits facilities work orders for equipment or building repairs.
• Monitors ware-washing activities to ensure proper cleaning and sanitization of dishes, utensils, and kitchen tools; directs and assists in cleanup of kitchen, service, and dining areas.
• Tracks attendance, enters callouts, and communicates concerns to leadership; performs timekeeping and payroll approval for student employees.
• Monitors POS terminal functionality, GrubHub, and digital menu screens.
• Reviews safety, allergen, and PCI audit results and implements follow-up actions.
• Actively participates in food preparation while overseeing production activities and providing staff with guidance and feedback.
• Controls food waste, promotes sustainability efforts, and monitors portioning standards.
• Maintains oversight of mise en place, workplace cleanliness, and sanitation practices across dining locations.
• Supervises, directs, and participates in the proper and safe use, cleaning, and maintenance of equipment; recommends repairs and maintenance needs.
• Actively seeks patron feedback and responds promptly to complaints, questions, and special requests.
• Assists with the monthly inventory process.
• Adheres to emergency preparedness procedures and responds appropriately during emergencies.
• Supports the university’s commitment to diversity and inclusivity by ensuring dining services are accessible and welcoming to all.
• Collaborates with the Student Union Dining General Manager, Assistant Manager, and SURC Executive Chef to implement goals and objectives.
• Maintains alignment with the department’s vision, values, and priorities.
• Defines performance expectations for culinary and student staff; ensures accountability and provides ongoing feedback.
• Encourages professional development through culinary skill enhancement, food safety training, and leadership growth opportunities.
• Cultivates a supportive and collaborative environment, fostering motivation, engagement, and teamwork.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Leadership experience, including hands-on training and team supervision.
• Supervisory-level experience in menu execution, overseeing food preparation, and ensuring adherence to allergen, dietary, and nutritional standards.
• Two years of experience working in a large commercial, institutional, or hotel kitchen setting.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with students and colleagues to foster a supportive learning and work environment.
• Must have or be eligible to obtain a WA State Food Handler’s permit within 30 days of hire.
• Must obtain SERVSAFE Certification within 6 months of hire.

Preferred Qualifications

• Two or more years of supervisory experience in a commercial kitchen, food service operation, or high-volume dining environment.
• Demonstrated ability to train, coach, and mentor students in culinary techniques, food safety, and service standards.
• Strong communication and organizational skills, with the ability to coordinate multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.
• Experience with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook) or similar software.
• Ability to incorporate diverse perspectives and relevant societal issues into everyday conversations.
• Demonstrated commitment to improving access to higher education for students.

Benefits

Central Washington University offers a comprehensive benefits package, including:

• Medical, dental, life, and disability insurance.
• Retirement and optional savings plans.
• Tuition assistance for employees and dependents.
• Local discounts and an employee assistance program for individualized counseling.
• Wellness incentive program.

Pay

This position is based on range 41 of the Washington State Classification Listing, with a monthly salary range of $3,738 to $4,980. Individual placement within the range is determined by the candidate’s experience, education, skills, and abilities.

Schedule

This is a 10.5-month cyclic position, with a schedule that varies based on business needs. For more details, refer to CWU Cyclic Leave.