Food Service Worker Lead

Job Summary

Central Washington University is recruiting a Food Service Worker Lead to join our Student Union Dining team in Ellensburg, Washington. We are seeking dedicated team members who want to help change students' lives. Grow your career in the dynamic world of College and University Dining, and support the campus community through food. In addition to promotion and growth opportunities, CWU offers incredible benefits, including 8 credits in tuition waivers each quarter for employees and 50% off for dependents, generous paid time, and retirement matching. The role is a 10.5-month cyclic campus-based position, which means you get to see the lives you are impacting. We're offering a salary, depending on experience, from $40,032 - $53,136 annually plus the awesome CWU benefits.

Who we are:

We are a team of individuals committed to Changing Students' Lives. No matter what job, each of us plays a part in supporting and empowering our students to fulfill their dreams.

Working in higher education provides career growth and career choice. Think of a university campus like a mini city, operating across 380 acres. You'll find diverse academics, libraries, athletics and sporting events, full service and quick serve dining, conferences and events from small to large, recreation centers, housing, health services, police and public safety for the campus population of ~10,000 students.

Central Washington University has been named a Fulbright U.S. Scholar Program Top Producing Institution for the 2022-2023 academic year. In addition, for the seventh time in eight years, CWU is a recipient of the prestigious Higher Education Excellence in Diversity (HEED) Award from INSIGHT Into Diversity magazine. RentCafe has also named CWU #13 of the Top 20 Best College Towns in the U.S. in 2025.

Come join us on our journey to encourage, inspire, and create spaces where all identities thrive on campus.

Tour our campus in Ellensburg here. www.youtube.com/watch?v=HjdhOegDa9A

What we offer:

Our investment in you begins the day you join our team, a healthy and successful future for you is important to us. We offer medical, dental, life and disability insurance, retirement and optional savings plans, tuition assistance for you and your dependents, discounts across town, an employee assistance program for individualized counseling, and a wellness incentive program. Learn more: Benefits, Perks, and Leave and Total Rewards Calculator.

The Role:

A Cafe's and Markets Lead is responsible for leading the work of others, and may operate a standalone cafe, market and/or dining concept. Working under general supervision, they regularly assign, train, instruct, and check the work of employees in their areas. While independently operating their area of responsibility, they also perform the operational functions and support other dining services as needed. This position is directly involved in leading, directing and training the staff including student cafe and food workers and on-call staff. This position ensures professional food and beverage preparation, leads Cafe Drinks and Markets Operational Standards, Oversees, Stocks, and Maintains the Markets, ensures proper drink and food safety practices are taken, and maintains a sanitary work environment.

The Shift Lead is responsible for preparing all beverages according to recipes and standards, with accountability for:

• Ensuring drink recipes compliance, execution, and food safety practices
• Preparing all recipes to meet company standards for flavor, color, and aroma
• Guiding Cafe's and Markets Help and assisting with their training
• Performing all Back of House (BOH) and Front of House (FOH) responsibilities

This position may support all Cafe and Market locations across campus. This position also may support other Dining Operations outside of Cafe's & Markets on an as needed basis to aid Dining Operations.

In alignment with Central Washington University's vision, mission, and values, CWU Dining Services plays a key role in supporting these principles while also upholding our department's own vision, mission, and values. Our vision is to be a key campus partner in promoting the growth of our diverse community through shared culinary and educational experiences. As a member of Dining Services, you will be directly involved in these efforts and are expected to embody both the university, and department, vision, mission, and values in your work. All employees are expected to support CWU's commitment to diversity and to bring and support inclusion into the university environment.

Job Duties

Area Lead:

• Ensures the successful and timely execution of the drink menu and recipes.
• Prepares drink menu selections for customers according to established production standards and specific recipes.
• Prepare and sell products to order which may include cold/hot drinks, light food prep, and RTE (ready to eat) products.
• Leads student staff.
• Regularly assigns tasks, instructs and checks work of student employees and temporary employees.
• Assigns and checks work and provides training. May provide feedback to supervisor to assist with work assignments and job performance.
• Properly sets up and uses equipment for production. Cleans and sanitizes equipment once production is completed.
• Reads, interprets and follows standardized recipes. Adjusts weights and measurement of ingredients to match quantity produced. Stages necessary ingredients for production.
• Reads, interprets and follows production guidelines produced by the menu management software system (Computrition). Looks up and prints recipes as needed. Fills out all production guides for assigned shift. Makes sure all amounts prepared, consumed and leftovers are imputed on appropriate lines.
• Answers questions on recipes interpretations and explains established kitchen/production procedures.
• Monitors customer counts and consumption of drink and food items during service hours.
• Always ensures the availability of fresh and properly garnished products for customer selection. Decides on alternative menu selection if production requires additional or alternative items.
• Visually inspects drinks and recipes before and during service to ensure quality.
• Adjust recipes to volume of demand.
• Sandwich assembly and heating required at some locations.
• Ensures drinks are properly garnished and merchandised at all times.
• Uses Espresso Machines, Blenders, mixers, ovens, , steamers, and warmers.
• Supports department mission of serving exceptional food and drinks to the campus community.
• Interprets and explains established Cafes and Markets production procedures. Initiates needed corrections on recipes and production guides.
• Makes sure each employee is fully trained on each piece of equipment used in the Cafe and Markets. Sets up equipment as necessary.
• Ensures the performance of duties such as slacking frozen products for proper tempering, cleaning work areas, FIFO'ing (First In First Out), dating items and monitoring expiration dates, stocking and binning market items to bring full and fresh experience for guests and increase revenue.
• Makes sure production is within reasonable limits to keep waste to a minimum.
• Ensure leftover food items (pastries, donuts, etc.) are properly packaged, labeled, stored and incorporated into menus to eliminate food waste and extended storage where applicable.
• Ensure a safe work environment. Report safety hazards immediately.
• Coordinates preparation of special dietary needs.
• Ensures correct serving and portion sizes are served and monitored.
• Advises of specific need for non-menu items not ordered through Computrition. Record inventory on monthly reports. Assist in rotating products in storage areas.
• Assist with inventory and binning as assigned by the Unit Manager.
• Participates in the physical counting in storage locations. Straightens up storage area, mark cases, boxes, and bags for efficient inventory.
• Assist with transporting daily food and drink orders to proper storage location after delivery from the warehouse or vendors as needed.
• Orders needed items on a daily, weekly and/or monthly basis from various vendors and accounts.
• Meets all deadlines and timelines for operational ordering from all vendors.
• Has a general understanding of nutritional values and allergy awareness.
• Performs more detailed cleaning of work area during non-operational time.
• Leading, directing and training the student employee staff including student food workers and on-call staff.
• Leads student employees in the absence of the Service Supervisor.
• Report safety issues and equipment malfunctions to the supervisor.
• Identifies and creates accountability with student employees in regard to uniforms, punctuality, professional communication and student employee performance.
• Actively leads, inspires excellence, mentor's student employees to develop skills and solves problems innovatively.
• Leads with purpose, delegating effectively and promoting and improving a healthy culture and work environment.
• Provides clear technical guidance and support.
• Fosters, maintains and enhances relationships with vendors and campus partners.
• Embraces changes, and pivots to meet operational needs.
• Develops strategic initiatives with callouts and coverage within operations.
• Assists in development, training and fostering support of student leaders.

Operations and Customer Service:

• Receive customer orders and operate point of sales system. Embrace and manage technology to improve flow through in the operation.
• Maintains ongoing training and focus on all aspects of customer service within operations.
• Assist in managing the inventory from ordering to utilization, including purchasing, receipt, storage, payment processing, distribution, production, display and sale.
• Logs all callouts, late calls and no shows and communicates with management.
• Assist in monitoring compliance with marketing standards and promotions and take corrective action.
• Maintains all logs, compliances, and procedures to ensure safe and consistent operations.
• Continuously monitors the appearance and quality of all drink and food display areas.
• Assists, as needed, with ordering, delivery and preparation of food to meet planned menu and service needs.
• Follow proper reporting procedures for unit performance data to include cash sales (when needed), labor hours worked and inventory.
• Assists, as needed, in oversight and training in proper handling, preparation and storage of food products.
• Open/close processes for applicable shift.
• Operate registers and prepare applicable financial reports.
• Operate point of sale system, keying in sales, taking payments, assisting with refunds and comps for errors or recovery, and account for receipts at the end of the work shift.
• Gather, assemble, create, package, and serve menu items to customer order.
• Assists in working and setting up for special events on or off campus as needed.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• 2+ years in customer service or sales experience in a food service or coffee shop environment.
• Knowledge of operation, production, Market coolers and kitchen equipment.
• Must possess a valid Driver's License
• Must have strong customer service skills
• Demonstrated willingness and/or experience working with students and/or co-workers from a wide range of abilities, backgrounds and experiences.
• OR equivalent combination of experience and/or training which demonstrates the ability to perform the essential functions of the position.

Additional Conditions of Employment

• Must have or be able to obtain a WA. State Food Handlers permit within 30 days of initial hire date.
• Must be able to obtain SERVSAFE Certification within 6 months of initial hire date.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience leading other staff in a large-scale Coffee Shop, Market, and/or food service operation or front of house customer service operation.
• Cafes and Markets experience within a university or hospitality driven environment.
• Experience with Microsoft Word and Excel.
• Demonstrated participation in programs designed to promote inclusion.
• A record of promoting inclusivity in the work environment.
• Knowledge of Espresso Machines, Turbo Chefs, and Blenders

Competencies

• Accountability/Dependability: Accepts responsibility for quality of own work; acknowledges and corrects mistakes. Shows up on time, meets standards, deadlines, and work schedules.
• Judgement: Makes timely, informed decisions. Analyzes options and determines appropriate course of action.
• Teamwork: Promotes cooperation and mutual support to achieve goals. Encourages participation and mutual support.
• Adaptability/Flexibility: Responds positively to changing business needs and responsibilities. Adapts approach and methods to achieve results; recovers quickly from setbacks and finds alternatives.
• Commitment to Belonging: Values the uniqueness of every individual and fosters an environment where everyone feels respected and empowered to thrive.

Don't meet every single requirement? At CWU, we're committed to creating a welcoming and genuine workplace. If you're excited about this role but your experience doesn't align perfectly with every qualification, we still encourage you to apply. This could be the opportunity you're looking for!

Pay, Benefits, & Work Schedule

Salary: This position is based on the range 37 of the Washington State Classification Listing, which has a minimum annual salary of $40,032 and maximum annual salary of $53,136. In accordance with RCW 49.58.110, the above salary reflects the full salary range for this position. Individual placement within the range is based on the candidate's current experience, education, skills, and abilities related to the position.

Schedule/Appointment: Varies / Dependent on department needs / 10.5 month cyclic appointment / WFSE Bargaining Unit 1

Working Conditions: Work is performed in an indoor office setting with frequent in-person interactions. It is essential to be able to remain at a desk/computer workstation for prolonged periods of time, perform extensive data entry and other computer-related tasks and create/maintain filing systems for departmental records. Work is also at various locations across campus; must be comfortable driving/walking to these locations throughout the week. Some evening or weekend work and/or occasional travel may be required. Work is performed primarily indoors, at times in hot/cold/noisy/wet areas with some exposure to hazardous equipment and products. Working in temperatures from 0 degrees (freezer) to 350+ degrees (around cooking equipment) is common. Work requires walking and standing (often in a stationary position) for the majority of each shift. Bending/climbing/carrying/pulling/pushing/lifting associated with loading/unloading of supplies and preparation, plating and serving of food is required. This position requires working a schedule that varies based on business needs. This entails attending and participating in events that occur seven days a week and outside normal business hours.

Benefits: CWU offers a comprehensive benefits package including medical and dental insurance, retirement and optional savings plans, life and disability insurance, along with vacation and sick leave plans depending on employment classification. For additional information please visit Benefits, Perks, and Leave and Total Rewards Calculator.

An employee of CWU may be eligible for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program if the employee has student loans. To learn more, visit: .

How To Apply

To apply for this position, you must complete the on-line application and attach:

• Resume including work history, education, training; and

• Contact information for three professional references.

Screening Begins: July 16, 2025

Priority will be given to applications received by the screening date. Incomplete applications may not be considered.

Contact Information

Name: Kyle Martin

Title: Assistant Manager Student Union Dining Operations

Email: ...

Phone: ...

Website:

Please contact Human Resources at ... or ... if you require technical assistance with the on-line application process.

Conditions of Employment

Background Check/Reference Check Process:

Prior to employment, final candidate(s) will be required to sign a Sexual Misconduct disclosure in pursuant to RCW 28B.112.080 and submit to a background check. All information obtained through background investigations will be strictly confidential and revealed only to those required to have access.

This position is part of a Washington Federation of State Employees Bargaining Unit I.

Notice to Prospective Employees:

Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Statement

Central Washington University is an EEO/AA/Title IX Institution. Central Washington University's policies and practices affirm and actively promote the rights of all individuals to equal opportunity in education and employment. Discrimination on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression, age, marital status, disability, or status as a protected veteran is prohibited. The university provides an internal procedure for reporting discrimination and affords protection against retaliation for participating in the complaint process. Central Washington University complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws, regulations, and executive orders including when soliciting bids and in the fulfillment of all contracts with governmental agencies. Direct related inquiries to Civil Rights Compliance, 202 Barge Hall, Ellensburg, WA 98926-7501; Telephone ...; or email ....

Reasonable Accommodations

Central Washington University provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities who are employees or applicants for employment. Employment opportunities will not be denied because of the need to make reasonable accommodations for a qualified individual with a disability. If you need assistance or accommodation in applying because of a disability, please contact Human Resources at ... or call .... This job announcement and other material on this site will be made available in alternate formats upon request to an individual with a disability.

Annual Security and Fire Safety Report (Clery Act)

For the Central Washington University Annual Security and Fire Safety Report (i.e. Clery Report) which includes statistics about reported crimes and information about campus security policies, available online here or call CWU Police and Parking Services at ... for a paper copy.