Kitchen Manager 00530

Inside Higher Ed; Newport News (VA); On-site; USD 41,120 - 50,257; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive benefits package

Vacation, sick time, and personal leave

Job summary

A prestigious university dining service is seeking a Kitchen Manager to oversee all back of house operations. This pivotal role involves managing food ordering, ensuring compliance with health codes, and training staff on food preparation techniques. The ideal candidate will have management experience in a culinary setting and possess a high school diploma. The position offers a salary starting at $45,689 with comprehensive benefits including retirement plans and medical options.

Qualifications

• Management experience in a culinary setting.
• Experience in inventory management.
• ServSafe certificate and/or other sanitation certification required.

Responsibilities

• Responsible for all back of house operations.
• Order food and paper products for the Commons.
• Monitor equipment repairs and maintenance schedules.
• Train production supervisors and cooks.

Skills

Excellent food preparation and presentation skills

Ability to work well and lead under pressure

Good communication and interpersonal skills

Exceptional customer service skills

Ability to read and write

Basic math skills

Knowledge of cooking methods and recipes

Knowledge of kitchen equipment

Good organizational skills

Ability to complete multiple tasks concurrently

Ability to work in temperature extremes

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Degree in culinary arts or food service management

Tools

Microsoft Word

Spreadsheet software

Job description

Position Overview

Job Title: Kitchen Manager 00530 (Food Service Manager I)

Position Number: 00530

FLSA Status: Non Exempt

Appointment Type: Full Time

Posting Type: General Public

Posting Number: PS1202P | Number of Vacancies: 1

Posting Date: 03/18/2026 | Closing Date: 04/02/2026

Responsibilities

Under the direction of the Commons Dining Operations Manager, this position is fully responsible for all back‑of‑the‑house operations, including ordering food and supplies, testing and executing new menu ideas, maintaining equipment, training staff, and ensuring compliance with health codes and ServSafe standards.

Additional responsibilities include overseeing general duties of food production supervisors and ensuring food quality, safety, and labor management in the absence of the Dining Operations Manager or Assistant Dining Operations Manager.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Excellent food preparation and presentation skills
• Ability to lead and work well under pressure
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Exceptional customer service skills
• Basic literacy and math skills
• Knowledge of all kitchen equipment and cooking methods
• Organizational skills and ability to multitask
• Proficiency with personal computers and associated software
• Ability to handle work in temperature extremes, congested areas, wet processes, and to wear protective footwear
• Flexible shift and weekend availability

Education & Experience (Required)

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Management experience in a culinary setting

Preferred Qualifications

• Degree in culinary arts, food service management, or related field
• ServSafe certificate or other sanitation certification
• Experience in inventory management, menu development, food costing, and ordering supplies
• Proficiency in word processing and spreadsheets
• Experience working at a college or university

Salary & Benefits

Starting salary of $45,689, commensurate with education and experience.

Included benefits: comprehensive health, dental, vision, retirement plans, vacation, sick, personal, and volunteer/service leave. State employees are eligible for discounted travel and other services. For more information on benefits, visit https://cnu.edu/hr/benefits/.

Conditions of Employment

• Classified position; new and returning employees must complete a 12‑month probationary period.
• Selected candidate must attend a 2‑day New Employee Orientation Program.
• Physical requirements: Ability to work in temperature extremes, congested areas, wet processes, wear protective footwear, lift up to 50 lbs, light lifting <20 lbs, standing, reaching, bending, walking, climbing.
• Workspace: Moderate lifting (20‑50 lbs), heavy lifting (>50 lbs), pushing/pulling, standing, sitting (marginal), bending, walking, climbing, reaching, repetitive motion, fast pace.

Telework Eligibility

No telework is eligible for this position.

Application Process

Applications must be submitted online via jobs.cnu.edu by midnight on the closing date (April 2, 2026). Faxed, e‑mailed, hand‑delivered, or mailed applications will not be accepted. The application must provide evidence of the required and preferred qualifications. Responses to supplemental questions alone are not considered evidence of experience and/or education.

EEO/Diversity Statement

Christopher Newport University, an EO Employer, is fully committed to access and opportunity.

Notice of non‑discrimination & Title IX policy statement.

Reasonable Accommodation

CNU will make a reasonable effort to accommodate persons with disabilities. Applicants should contact the Human Resources Office for accommodations.

Alternative Hiring Process

Individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply through the Commonwealth’s Alternative Hiring Process. Applicants should upload an approved AHP Letter from DARS or DBVI with the application.

Background Check

Applicants who advance to the finalist round will complete a CNU‑sponsored background check and an I‑9 form after accepting employment.