Dining Services Manager

Purdue University Northwest (PNW) is a distinguished public regional university located in Northwest Indiana, recognized for its commitment to transforming lives through innovative education, impactful research, and meaningful community engagement. Serving approximately 9,000 students across its main campus in Hammond, branch campus in Westville, and other regional sites, PNW provides a wide range of academic programs at the baccalaureate, master’s, and applied doctoral levels. As an institution, PNW prides itself on fostering a student-centered culture, promoting values of respect, innovation, excellence, and a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion. PNW is noted for its ranking among the best public regional universities by U.S. News & World Report and its designation as a First Scholars institution and Innovation and Economic Prosperity University. The university’s dynamic environment supports both faculty and staff in contributing to student success and regional development. The Dining Services area at Purdue University Northwest is seeking a dedicated Dining Services Manager to join its team. This role is pivotal in maintaining high-quality dining operations across campus facilities, ensuring an exceptional dining experience for students, faculty, staff, and visitors. The Dining Services Manager is responsible for overseeing the daily front-of-house operations, which includes managing and supervising a diverse team of front-line staff and student employees. The manager will ensure that dining services meet high standards of customer service, food safety, and overall operational efficiency. Key responsibilities include maintaining a clean, organized, and welcoming dining environment; coordinating opening and closing procedures; handling cash and register accountability; and supporting smooth meal service periods. Collaboration with culinary and back-of-house teams is essential for seamless service delivery. Furthermore, the manager will assist with marketing promotions, special campus dining events, and support team development and employee engagement initiatives. This is an exempt position that requires strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills, with the ability to work in a fast-paced setting and manage multiple priorities effectively. The role may involve flexible working hours, including evenings and weekends during peak semesters, and requires the ability to lift, carry, and move equipment weighing between 10 to 40 pounds. The position offers a competitive benefits package inclusive of medical, dental, vision, short-term disability, retirement plans, life insurance, paid time off, and tuition remission opportunities. This role provides an excellent chance to contribute to a positive campus experience in a thriving academic community dedicated to excellence and innovation.