Food Service Operations Specialist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the dynamic world of hospitality, the focus on Food Service Operations Specialists is increasingly paramount.

As the culinary industry evolves, the demand for skilled individuals who can manage, enhance, and ensure the efficiency of our food service systems grows.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a Food Service Operations Specialist?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply curious about the intricacies of food service operations,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Food Service Operations Specialist job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Food Service Operations Specialist Duties and Responsibilities

Food Service Operations Specialists are responsible for a variety of tasks related to the operation and management of food service establishments.

This role involves ensuring the smooth running of food preparation and service, maintaining health and safety standards, and overseeing staff performance and training.

The duties and responsibilities include:

• Overseeing the daily operations of food service establishments
• Monitoring food preparation and service to ensure adherence to recipes and standards
• Managing food and beverage inventory, including ordering and receiving supplies
• Ensuring compliance with food safety regulations and maintaining a clean and sanitary environment
• Recruiting, training, and managing food service staff
• Developing menus in coordination with chefs or food service managers
• Handling customer complaints and queries in a professional manner
• Assessing and improving efficiency and profitability within the food service establishment
• Implementing promotional activities to drive business growth
• Ensuring a positive dining experience for customers by maintaining high service standards

 

Food Service Operations Specialist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a skilled and organized Food Service Operations Specialist to manage and improve our food and beverage operations.

The successful candidate will be responsible for maintaining high standards of food quality, regulating service operations, and ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations.

The ideal candidate should be knowledgeable about food industry trends, excellent in team management, and adept at optimizing operational efficiency.

 

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily food service operations to ensure quality and compliance with set standards.
• Perform regular audits of food safety practices and procedures.
• Identify areas for operational improvement and implement new processes as needed.
• Manage the recruitment, training, and performance evaluation of food service staff.
• Assist in menu planning and pricing, considering factors such as food costs and seasonal availability.
• Coordinate with vendors and suppliers to ensure timely delivery of food and beverage supplies.
• Maintain inventory levels and order supplies as needed.
• Ensure compliance with all health and safety regulations within the kitchen and dining areas.
• Resolve customer complaints regarding food quality or service.
• Prepare reports on food service operations and financial performance.

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience in food service management or similar role.
• Knowledge of food safety regulations and quality control procedures.
• Strong leadership and team management skills.
• Proficiency in inventory management and cost control.
• Excellent communication and customer service skills.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
• Bachelor’s degree in Hospitality Management, Business Administration, or relevant field.
• Certification in food safety training is a plus.

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Food Service Operations Specialist
• Work Environment: This role will be primarily based in a restaurant or kitchen setting. Some travel may be required for meetings with vendors or to visit other company locations.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Food Service Operations Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $45,000 minimum to $70,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Food Service Operations Specialist Do?

A Food Service Operations Specialist is typically employed in the hospitality industry, working in various settings such as restaurants, hotels, cruise ships, or food service providers.

They are responsible for overseeing the daily operations of food service establishments to ensure that everything runs smoothly.

This includes managing staff, ensuring food safety standards are met, monitoring inventory and food supplies, and implementing operational changes.

The Food Service Operations Specialist often liaises with chefs or kitchen staff to plan menus, create unique food items, and ensure a variety of meals are available to cater to different customer preferences.

They are also in charge of customer service, handling any complaints or issues that may arise, and ensuring that all customers receive a high standard of service.

In addition, the Food Service Operations Specialist may be involved in financial aspects such as budgeting, cost control, and forecasting sales.

Their role requires a combination of management skills and a comprehensive understanding of food preparation and safety standards.

They often work closely with other departments, such as marketing, to promote their establishment and attract more customers.

 

Food Service Operations Specialist Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Food Service Operations Specialist should possess the skills and qualifications that align with the job role, including:

• Strong knowledge of food preparation, food safety regulations, and sanitation standards to ensure the operations meet all regulatory guidelines.
• Excellent organizational and planning skills to manage the various aspects of a food service operation, including inventory, staffing, and customer service.
• Interpersonal skills for effectively communicating with staff, vendors, and customers, and fostering a positive work environment.
• Leadership skills to guide the team, motivate employees, and efficiently manage the operations.
• Problem-solving skills to quickly identify and address operational issues that may affect the quality of service or food.
• Financial acumen to manage the budget, control costs, and understand the financial performance of the operation.
• Customer service skills to ensure patrons are satisfied with their dining experience and to effectively manage customer complaints.
• Physical stamina for standing and moving around the kitchen or dining area for long periods.
• Technological skills for using computer software for inventory management, scheduling, and other operational needs.

 

Food Service Operations Specialist Experience Requirements

Entry-level candidates for Food Service Operations Specialist might have 1 to 2 years of experience, typically gained from working part-time or through an internship in a restaurant, hotel, or other food service establishment.

These individuals may have experience in roles such as a Server, Kitchen Helper, Cook, or other food-service related roles.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience often develop their skills and understanding of food service operations through roles such as Assistant Manager or Supervisor in a food service establishment.

They are expected to have gained comprehensive knowledge about food safety standards, inventory management, customer service, and team management.

Those with more than 5 years of experience are generally considered for senior or managerial roles.

At this point, they may have leadership experience and may have overseen a team, managed budgets, and coordinated catering events.

They might also have experience working with food service vendors, negotiating contracts, and planning menus.

Such individuals are expected to have advanced knowledge of food service operations, including regulatory compliance, quality control, and personnel management.

Continued education in the form of food safety certifications or a degree in hospitality or food service management can be a plus for all levels of Food Service Operations Specialist positions.

 

Food Service Operations Specialist Education and Training Requirements

Food Service Operations Specialists typically require a high school diploma or its equivalent as a minimum educational qualification.

Some formal training in the culinary arts, restaurant management, or hospitality can be advantageous and might be obtained through a vocational school, technical institute, community college, or a four-year college.

Degrees in culinary arts, food service management, or a related field can offer comprehensive education about kitchen operations, food safety standards, and management skills.

Most Food Service Operations Specialists learn their skills on the job.

They start as a kitchen helper or a food preparation worker and gradually learn to take up larger roles.

However, some large hotel and restaurant chains offer paid internship programs to promising candidates that provide hands-on training in food service operations.

Food Service Operations Specialists may also need to obtain a food handler’s card or similar certification, which demonstrates understanding of proper food safety practices.

The requirements for this certification vary by state.

Many Food Service Operations Specialists also pursue continuing education and advanced training to improve their skills and knowledge, which might include courses in inventory management, team leadership, and customer service.

Getting a certification in restaurant management can also provide a competitive edge for career advancement.

Some professionals even opt for a master’s degree in business administration or a related field to widen their career opportunities and seek senior management roles.

 

Food Service Operations Specialist Salary Expectations

A Food Service Operations Specialist earns an average salary of $53,940 (USD) per year.

The actual income may differ based on factors such as experience in the field, the employing organization, and the location of work.

 

Food Service Operations Specialist Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Food Service Operations Specialist need?

Food Service Operations Specialists need to have excellent organizational and leadership skills as they oversee the smooth operations of food service establishments.

They should also possess great communication skills for effective team management and interaction with clients or suppliers.

Being knowledgeable about food safety standards and regulations is key, and they should have strong problem-solving skills to resolve operational issues.

 

Do Food Service Operations Specialists need a degree?

While not always a requirement, many employers prefer Food Service Operations Specialists to have a degree in hospitality, restaurant management, or a related field.

However, extensive experience in food service operations can sometimes substitute for formal education.

Additionally, certifications in food safety can be beneficial for these roles.

 

What should you look for in a Food Service Operations Specialist resume?

Look for a proven track record in managing food service operations effectively.

This can include experience in inventory management, staff supervision, customer service, and meeting health and safety standards.

Also, pay attention to any degrees or certifications related to food service or hospitality management.

Demonstrated leadership abilities and problem-solving skills are also important.

 

What qualities make a good Food Service Operations Specialist?

A good Food Service Operations Specialist is highly organized and able to multitask, as they often oversee several operations at once.

They should be excellent communicators, able to effectively manage a team and interact with clients or suppliers.

A strong understanding of food safety regulations and procedures is crucial, as is a problem-solving mindset to handle any operational issues that arise.

 

Is it difficult to hire a Food Service Operations Specialist?

Hiring a Food Service Operations Specialist can be challenging due to the specific skill set and experience required for the role.

However, by offering competitive salaries and emphasizing opportunities for career growth, you can attract qualified candidates.

Additionally, it is beneficial to provide a supportive work environment that values the contributions of its employees.

 

Conclusion

So there you have it.

Today, we’ve uncovered the intricate details behind the role of a food service operations specialist.

And guess what?

It’s not just about serving food.

It’s about creating memorable dining experiences, one meal at a time.

With our comprehensive food service operations specialist job description template and real-world examples, you’re fully equipped to step into the world of food service.

But why not delve deeper?

Explore further with our job description generator. It’s your ideal resource for creating ultra-specific job listings or refining your resume to culinary perfection.

Remember:

Every meal served contributes to the broader dining experience.

Let’s craft that experience. Together.

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