Operations Manager, Culinary Operations

NAIT; Edmonton; On-site; CAD 93,000 - 124,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading educational institution in Edmonton is seeking an Operations Manager for its Culinary Operations department. This role involves managing daily operations of multiple food service outlets, overseeing team performance, and ensuring compliance with food safety standards. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in food service management and excellent leadership skills, alongside financial acumen. A comprehensive benefits package is offered.

Benefits

Flexible work environment

Paid time off between Christmas and New Year's

Comprehensive benefits package

Qualifications

• Strong leadership and communication skills.
• Proven ability to manage complex operations.
• Experience in a unionized environment is an asset.

Responsibilities

• Lead daily operations across multiple food service outlets.
• Oversee financial performance and inventory management.
• Ensure compliance with food safety regulations.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Interpersonal skills

Financial acumen

Knowledge of food safety standards

Proficiency in Microsoft Office

Education

Completion of a related post-secondary program

Minimum 4–5 years of supervisory experience

Valid Food Handler’s Certificate

Tools

POS systems

Scheduling tools

Job description

In order to ensure your application is received byNAIT for thorough review and consideration, please apply directly through our Careers siteat www.nait.ca / careers

Reporting to the Associate Dean, the Operations Manager is a key member of the leadership team in the Culinary Operations department. This role oversees the daily operations of Ernest’s restaurant, One World, Fresh Express, the Artisanal student market, procurement, stewarding, and major events. The manager ensures efficient, cost-recovery operations that support student learning and enhance the campus experience.

This position is accountable for managing over $2 million in annual cost recovery and leads a diverse team in a fast-paced, instructional food service environment.

Key Responsibilities :

• Lead and coordinate day-to-day operations across multiple food service outlets
• Oversee financial performance, cost recovery, and inventory management
• Supervise and develop staff, including hiring, training, and performance management
• Ensure compliance with food safety, health, and workplace regulations
• Collaborate with instructional teams on menu planning and service delivery
• Manage vendor relationships, capital purchases, and maintenance coordination
• Promote a high-quality customer experience and uphold NAIT’s public image

Skills & Abilities :

Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills

Proven ability to manage complex operations and large teams

Financial acumen and experience with budgeting and cost recovery

Knowledge of food safety standards (HACCP, WHMIS, AHS regulations)

Ability to work under pressure and manage competing priorities

Proficiency in Microsoft Office, scheduling tools, and POS systems

Qualifications :

Completion of a related post-secondary program and / or coursework

Minimum 4–5 years of supervisory experience in a post secondary food service / academic operation

Experience in a unionized and / or institutional environment is an asset

Valid Food Handler’s Certificate or equivalent

Applicants with education credentials earned outside of Canada should have their credentials evaluated by World Education Services or the International Qualifications Assessment Service (IQAS).

Remuneration : $93,024.10 - $123,245.46 annually, plus a comprehensive benefits package.

Please submit a resume and cover letter to be considered for this opportunity.

About NAIT

We are proud to have been named one of Alberta’s Top Employers for 14 consecutive years. Being part of a community that makes a difference in the lives of students, staff, industry clients and partners, NAIT’s culture reflects our shared values of respect, collaboration, celebration, creativity, and accountability.

People are what make NAIT great, and we prioritize the employee experience. We offer benefits and unique perks focusing on health and wellness, work-life balance, recognition, and professional and personal growth. In addition to excellent vacation time, we offer paid time off between Christmas and New Year's.

NAIT supports a flexible work environment, enabling staff to request approval for on-campus, off-site, or hybrid work arrangements based on the nature of the role. Please note that remote positions require employees to reside within Canada.

NAIT is committed to fostering an environment that supports equity and cultivates inclusion through our Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Strategy. We are a proud partner of the Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion and Pride at Work Canada. While we encourage all qualified applicants to apply, only those being considered will be contacted. If you require any accommodations, please connect with us at [e-mail].

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