Lead Food Service Worker

Job Responsibilities

• Lead food service workers in food presentation and service.
• Maintain and consistently stock all stations, ensure staffing levels, and verify food labeling and printed media accuracy.
• Reject food items not up to standard due to taste or appearance.
• Ensure food and beverage equipment are at proper temperatures and supplies are adequately supplied.
• Follow serving times and open/close the hot line according to schedule.
• Serve food in accordance with Serv-Safe standards, policies, and procedures.
• Schedule and record reservations for private dining rooms and inform staff of reservations.
• Record accurate counts of meals, baked goods, and paper supplies for each meal.
• Inform unit manager of any problems, requests, or opportunities.
• Answer guests' questions about prepared foods, including ingredients, methods of preparation, and known allergens.
• Implement emergency procedures when necessary.
• Execute dining hall opening and closing procedures.
• Promote an atmosphere of positivity and congeniality.

Leadership

• Facilitate pre-meal focus meetings.
• Provide talking points to the First Cook and collaborate with the unit manager for an efficient, organized operation.
• Train staff on effective Dining Services operations with enthusiasm and cooperation, focusing on customer service, food service, and sanitation.
• Ensure staff adhere to sanitation and safety standards.
• Uphold Dining Services standards and procedures.

Safety/Sanitation

• Clean and maintain all areas of the dining room, including tables, chairs, floors, equipment, and décor.
• Practice proper cleaning procedures and observe MSDS policies/procedures for safety and sanitation.
• Maintain material safety data sheets, materials, and chemical use and needs.
• Obey all local, state, and federal safety health codes.
• Update allergens on digital menu boards.

Knowledge, Skills and Competencies

• Discuss food ingredients, including allergens, and preparation methods with guests.
• Perform basic math computations.
• Show respect for diversity of identities and experiences, and demonstrate cultural competency.
• Identify food products with knowledge and commitment to health and safety procedures.
• Adhere to health and safety procedures with food handling and preparation.
• Practice excellent personal hygiene and follow uniform standards.
• Work independently and handle multiple priorities and deadlines simultaneously.
• Communicate effectively (written and verbal).
• Build trust and credibility with students, faculty, staff, and guests.
• Show strong interpersonal skills and a strong customer focus.
• Demonstrate analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Follow confidential policies strictly.
• Be proficient in MS Office and willing to learn additional applications.
• Show high degree of organizational skills and flexibility.
• Follow verbal and written directions, maintain a professional demeanor, and restrain in stressful situations.

Position Requirements

• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• Some college experience helpful.
• ServSafe certification required (must obtain within 60 days of hire).
• Minimum 1 year food service experience required.
• Experience in large volume production and knowledge of quantity food preparation methods and terminology preferred.
• Directly related experience in a high volume kitchen and fast-paced environment preferred.
• Experience in an academic institution preferred.
• Demonstrated experience directing work assignments of support staff required.
• Experience working with adolescents in an educational setting preferred.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand for extended periods.
• Ability to go up and down flights of steps.
• Ability to lift and push heavy objects up to 50 lbs without assistance.
• Ability to work under a range of temperature conditions.

Additional Requirements

• Successfully complete a criminal background check (reviewed every 5 years).
• This position is considered "Essential Personnel" in the event of emergencies on the PEA Campus or in the vicinity, or inclement weather forcing campus closure.
• Essential Personnel must report to or remain at work if instructed to do so if contacted directly by the supervisor (or his/her designee), the Principal, or a member of the Principal's Staff (Leadership Team).