Assistant Director Culinary Services

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Full Consideration Date:

05/13/2026

Job Description:

Primary Function:

Leads a high‑performing catering and bar operation, driving innovative menu development, smart pricing strategies, and exceptional service standards; champions the planning and execution of memorable catered experiences for on‑ and off‑campus clients, ensuring every detail is delivered flawlessly and continuously elevating quality through proactive customer feedback; oversees the fast‑paced daily operations of the central bakery and commissary, ensuring top‑tier production and seamless distribution to dining centers, retail locations, and catered events; leverages FoodPro and related systems to optimize resources, streamline processes, and maintain strong cost controls; provides inspiring leadership to staff through coaching, scheduling, performance oversight, and active involvement in hiring; and plays a key role in strategic planning and budgeting for catering, the central bakery, and the commissary, shaping how these units support and advance the mission of Dining Services.

Required Minimum Qualifications:

Bachelor's degree in hotel, restaurant and institutional management (HRIM), event planning, business or related field; at least three years of food service experience; supervisory experience; and ServSafe, ServSafe Alcohol, and Allergen Training certifications or ability to obtain certifications within nine months of hire required. Regular work performed outside of normal work hours (evenings and weekends), and occasional travel will be necessary.

Preferred Qualifications:

Demonstrated knowledge of culinary terms and food production techniques; experience in the development of menus and food preparation procedures; analytical and organizational skills; ability to work independently as well as in a team environment; proficiency with Windows-based PCs and food production systems; excellent interpersonal skills; and excellent oral and written communication skills preferred.

Position Details:

Job Category:

Professional and Scientific Type of Position:

Regular Service Schedule:

Calendar Year Application Instructions:

All application materials received by May 13, 2026, will be given full consideration. To apply for this position, please click on "Apply" and complete the Employment Application. The following materials must be attached when applying: 1) Resume 2) Cover Letter You will be presented with the opportunity to attach multiple documents when completing the application. Before submitting your online job application, ensure that ALL required materials listed above have been uploaded. Once your job application has been submitted, you cannot make changes. If you have questions regarding this application process, please email careers-support@uni.edu or call 319-273-2422.

Compensation:

$65,000 to

Commensurate Pay Grade:

120

Pay Basis:

Salary Iowa enjoys a lower cost of living than many other states. See how the Waterloo-Cedar Falls area compares by utilizing the cost of living calculator. Our overall compensation package is enhanced by excellent benefits for eligible non-temporary positions. To learn more about the vibrant Cedar Valley community, visit https://livethevalley.com/. If you would like general assistance with the application process or an accommodation due to a disability, please contact Human Resource Services at hrs-employment@uni.edu or call (319) 273-2422. All offers of employment are contingent upon a background check that includes a review of conviction history. A conviction does not automatically preclude University employment. Rather, the University considers conviction information on a case-by-case basis and assesses the nature of the offense, the circumstances surrounding it, the proximity in time of the conviction, and its relevance to the position. UNI is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. The University encourages applications from persons of color, women, individuals living with disabilities, and protected veterans. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, creed, disability, ethnicity, genetic information, marital status, national origin, political affiliation, pregnancy, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, veteran or military status, or any other basis protected by federal and/or state law. Campus Security & Crime Statistics, in compliance with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act, information on crime statistics for recent years, Public Safety personnel and programs, building access, reporting crimes, safety suggestions, and policies, programs, and services regarding alcohol, drugs, and sexual abuse, is available in the UNI Annual Security and Fire Report. A paper copy is available from the Department of Public Safety, 030 Gilchrist Hall, University of Northern Iowa, Cedar Falls, IA 50614. Department of Public Safety, 030 Gilchrist Hall, University of Northern Iowa, Cedar Falls, IA 50614. Privacy Statement | Equal Opportunity and Non-Discrimination Statement | Federal EEO Rights | E-Verify | Policies and Procedures | Tobacco Free Campus The University of Northern Iowa is hiring! Our continued success depends on hiring the most talented people we can. Please explore our current open positions and apply to those you feel best suit you, track your progress in the selection process, and continue to view new postings that may be of interest to you. Thank you for your interest in employment at UNI! The University of Northern Iowa provides a high-quality and diverse educational experience, purposefully guiding students to find and develop their strengths and prepare them for success after college. The university's attractive size, approximately 9,200 students, allows UNI to offer faculty, facilities and academic choices characteristic of a much larger university while retaining a friendly, small-college atmosphere on a park-like campus. UNI has been consistently recognized as one of the "Best Midwest Universities" by U.S. News & World Report. Located in Cedar Falls/Waterloo, the campus is comprised of more than 40 buildings on 940 acres. Designated as a Best Place for Working Parents, UNI supports all individuals through family-friendly policies, practices and benefits. The University provides a comprehensive benefits package, enabling us to be highly competitive within the Cedar Valley and across the state.