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Cafeteria Manager Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

VVS INC

Cafeteria Assistant Manager

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$15.50 - $19.25/hr

Complete operating functions such as ordering, inventory management, and scheduling. * Maintain a positive relationship between VVS and its clients. * Complete any other tasks related to the overall ...

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Cafeteria Manager information

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$11

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$24

How much do cafeteria manager jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for cafeteria manager in Iowa is $18.10, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $18.75 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a cafeteria manager?

Cafeteria managers are professionals responsible for overseeing the daily operations of a cafeteria, including food preparation, staff supervision, inventory management, and ensuring health and safety standards are met. They plan menus, order supplies, handle budgeting, and address customer concerns to provide a positive dining experience. Additionally, cafeteria managers often train and schedule employees, monitor food quality, and ensure compliance with local health regulations.

What does a cafeteria manager do?

A cafeteria manager is required to oversee the daily operations of a cafeteria, such as one at a hospital, school, residential rehabilitation facility, or corporate office. In this career, you are responsible for hiring and training new employees, scheduling shifts at the cafeteria, and managing all food production and food preparation. As the cafeteria manager, you also have many administrative duties, such as monitoring inventory, ordering more products, dealing with customer service issues, and consulting with other managers in the department or above you.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a cafeteria manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Cafeteria Manager, you need strong organizational abilities, food safety knowledge, and experience in food service management, often supported by a degree or certification in hospitality or culinary arts. Familiarity with inventory management software, point-of-sale (POS) systems, and compliance with health regulations is typically required. Excellent interpersonal skills, leadership, and the ability to resolve conflicts help you manage staff and ensure customer satisfaction. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining efficient operations, meeting regulatory standards, and delivering a positive dining experience.

What are some common challenges faced by cafeteria managers and how can they be addressed?

Cafeteria Managers often face challenges such as coordinating staff schedules, ensuring food safety compliance, and managing supply inventory. Balancing meal quality with budget constraints is another frequent hurdle. Successful managers address these issues by fostering strong communication within their teams, implementing efficient inventory systems, and staying updated on food safety regulations. Regular staff training and open feedback channels can also help maintain high standards and smooth operations.

What is the difference between Cafeteria Manager vs Food Service Supervisor?

AspectCafeteria ManagerFood Service Supervisor
CredentialsHigh school diploma; some roles prefer food service certificationsHigh school diploma; food safety certifications often required
Work EnvironmentSchool cafeterias, institutional dining facilitiesRestaurants, cafeterias, catering services
Employer & IndustryEducational institutions, government facilitiesFood service establishments, hospitality industry
Primary ResponsibilitiesOversees cafeteria operations, manages staff, handles inventorySupervises food prep, manages staff, ensures food safety standards

While both roles involve managing food service operations, a Cafeteria Manager typically oversees school or institutional cafeterias, focusing on daily operations and staff management. A Food Service Supervisor often works in restaurants or catering, emphasizing food preparation and safety. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

More about Cafeteria Manager jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Cafeteria jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Cafeteria jobs in Iowa are:

What are popular job titles related to Cafeteria Manager jobs in Iowa?

For Cafeteria Manager jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Cafeteria Manager jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Cafeteria Manager jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Cafeteria Manager jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Cafeteria Manager job openings:

Cafeteria Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cafeteria Manager job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,655 per year, or $18.1 per hour.

Cafeteria Assistant Manager

Northeast Iowa Community College

Peosta, IA • On-site

$16.39/hr

Full-time, Part-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Posting Details Position Information Position Title Cafeteria Assistant Manager Posting Number S00506 Full-Time/Part-Time Part Time Work Schedule 28 hours per week. Salary $16.39/hour - Pay Grade: 4 Campus/Center Peosta Location Peosta, Iowa Position Summary Information Job Goal To assist cafeteria manager in all areas of planning, purchasing, and preparing food for students, staff, and guests. Leads cafeteria operations in the absence of the manager. Duties and Responsibilities Demonstrate the values of the college through prompt and courteous service. Prepare menu items as directed. Establish portion controls in relation to food pricing. Plan for usage of foods and supplies as needed to minimize food waste. Supervise the food services cash register activities and train on the cash register processes. Provide an accounting of daily sales and process receipts to the Business Office in the absence of the manager. Process and supervise debit/credit card transactions as required Supervise and assist with serving during scheduled meals. Assist in training and overseeing of cafeteria staff. Maintain the food service area in accordance with state regulations (dishes, pans, etc.). Supervise and assist in utensil and equipment washing in compliance with state regulations. Maintain cleanliness of kitchen and food preparation areas in accordance with state regulations. Assist with catering services for internal college events as directed. Work collaboratively with other departments for college events. Attend college meetings and serve on committees as requested. Promote cafeteria services to college employees and students. Report needed repairs of kitchen equipment to Cafeteria Manager. Training and mentoring college work study employees as needed. Must be able to demonstrate effective practices of maintaining privacy and security of vendor, employee, and student information. Assist in any other food service functions as deemed necessary. Qualifications High school graduate or equivalent. Minimum of two years as a restaurant or institutional cook and/or food preparation experience. Essential Functions Work collaboratively with other departments for college events. Attend college meetings and serve on committees as requested. Promote cafeteria services to college employees and students. Report needed repairs of kitchen equipment to Cafeteria Manager. Training and mentoring college work study employees as needed. Must be able to demonstrate effective practices of maintaining privacy and security of vendor, employee, and student information. Assist in any other food service functions as deemed necessary. Posting Detail Information Open Date 08/28/2025 Close Date Open Until Filled Yes Special Instructions to Applicants

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