Lead Food Service Worker

Kent State University, located on its Kent Campus in Kent, Ohio, is a prominent public research university recognized for its commitment to academic excellence, diversity, and community engagement. Established in 1910, Kent State offers a broad spectrum of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs, serving a diverse student population. The university prides itself on fostering an inclusive environment that supports cultural awareness, innovation, and professional growth among its faculty, staff, and students. Kent State is also known for its vibrant campus life, extensive research initiatives, and dedication to providing quality services such as housing, dining, and event management to its university community and visitors.

The Lead Food Service Worker position at Kent State University’s Kent Campus is a vital role within the Catering & Events department. This permanent staff role falls under the classified AFSCME union category and offers a competitive salary range of $17.84 to $18.66 per hour, based on a six-month rate. The position is designed to assist in food preparation and related food service activities while acting as a lead worker overseeing Food Service Worker 1s and student employees. Reporting directly to the Food Service Manager or Food Service General Manager, the lead ensures efficient operation of food service lines, adherence to safety standards, and smooth coordination of catering operations.

This role requires hands-on participation in all aspects of food service, including portioning, slicing, wrapping food, setting up and clearing tables, maintaining cleanliness, and operating kitchen equipment including dishwashers. The Lead Food Service Worker plays an essential role in supervising the food service crew, assigning work tasks, monitoring supplies, maintaining records, and ensuring compliance with Ohio Department of Health food safety regulations. The position demands flexibility to work varied hours including evenings, weekends, and holidays, reflecting the dynamic needs of the campus dining and events environment.

Additional responsibilities include preparing vegetables, fruits, sandwiches, salads, desserts, and beverages, as well as grilling, frying, and reheating foods. The role also involves supervising and training student employees, participating in the onboarding process of new hires, and reporting any irregularities or shortages to supervisors. Candidates for this role must possess a high level of physical stamina, including the ability to lift 50 pounds, and demonstrate the ability to work in a fast-paced, food production environment that requires attention to sanitation, safety, and customer service excellence.

Kent State University promotes a smoke-free and tobacco-free campus and values diversity and inclusion as core organizational principles. This role requires passing a security check and acquiring Ohio Department of Health Level Two certification in Food Protection within the probationary period. Candidates may also need a valid Ohio driver’s license or Commercial Driver’s License depending on assigned duties. This position offers the opportunity to contribute to the university’s vibrant campus life and make an impact on the quality of food service and catering operations at a leading public institution committed to community, diversity, and excellence.