POSITION SPECIFICS
The Assistant Director of Retail Dining is responsible for the leadership, coordination, and day-to-day management of one or more large dining operations; ensures high-quality food service delivery, exceptional customer experience, operational efficiency, compliance with health and safety standards, and alignment with the university’s mission, goals, and strategic priorities; works collaboratively with students, staff, vendors, and campus partners to promote sustainable and fiscally sound dining programs.
Oversee one or more daily dining operations including retail, residential dining, markets, catered events, and special functions
Coordinate staffing schedules, work assignments, and operational workflows to ensure adequate coverage and service quality
Maintain consistent service standards for food preparation, presentation, and customer interactions
Lead efforts to enhance customer satisfaction, including responding to feedback, managing service delivery, and facilitating student engagement initiatives
Investigate and resolve problems related to internal and external customer service, product quality, and personnel performance
Plan and implement programs that support diverse dietary needs (e.g., vegetarian/vegan, allergen-friendly, cultural preferences)
Partner with student organizations and campus groups to integrate dining services into campus life
Monitor and manage operating budgets, labor costs, inventory control, and revenue targets
Analyze financial reports, recommend pricing strategies, and identify opportunities to optimize profitability and cost control
Collaborate with procurement on contract negotiation and vendor performance evaluation
Recruit, train, mentor, and evaluate dining operations staff and supervisors
Establish performance expectations and drive a culture of excellence, accountability, and teamwork
Organize professional development and food safety training in compliance with regulatory requirements
Ensure all food service operations comply with federal, state, and local health codes, environmental and safety regulations, and university policies
Oversee sanitation inspections, corrective action plans, and documentation
Maintain rigorous standards for food handling, storage, equipment maintenance, and emergency response
Work with senior leadership to implement long-term strategic initiatives related to dining services, sustainability, and campus well-being
Evaluate trends in higher education dining, consumer preferences, and industry best practices to guide program enhancements
Promote sustainable practices such as waste reduction, local sourcing, energy efficiency, and recycling initiatives
Adhere to Collective Bargaining Agreement provisions; participate in labor relations activities in coordination with Human Resources
MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS
Bachelor's Degree
8+ years of relevant experience, includes 3+ years of supervisory experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted
Required Certifications:
None
BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES
Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.
SALARY & BENEFITS
The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $72,300.00 - $108,444.00.
Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure
Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.
CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS
Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.
