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Dining Services Director Jobs in Springfield, MO

Cook

Springfield, MO · On-site

$18/hr

The Cook, reporting directly to the Dining Services Director, is responsible for preparing high-quality, nutritious, and appealing meals that meet or exceed the hospitality and service standards of ...

The Cook, reporting directly to the Dining Services Director, is responsible for preparing high-quality, nutritious, and appealing meals that meet or exceed the hospitality and service standards of ...

Cook

Springfield, MO · On-site

$18/hr

The Cook, reporting directly to the Dining Services Director, is responsible for preparing high-quality, nutritious, and appealing meals that meet or exceed the hospitality and service standards of ...

... Culinary Services Director and/or Host/Hostess, to include taking resident orders for meals ... the dining room in-between mealtimes. * Performs all other duties as assigned or required.

Receptionist

Springfield, MO · On-site

$15.75 - $17/hr

... Culinary Services Director and/or Host/Hostess, to include taking resident orders for meals ... the dining room in-between mealtimes. * Performs all other duties as assigned or required.

Receptionist

Springfield, MO · On-site

$15.75 - $17/hr

... Culinary Services Director and/or Host/Hostess, to include taking resident orders for meals ... the dining room in-between mealtimes. * Performs all other duties as assigned or required.

Receptionist

Springfield, MO · On-site

$15.75 - $17/hr

... Culinary Services Director and/or Host/Hostess, to include taking resident orders for meals ... the dining room in-between mealtimes. * Performs all other duties as assigned or required.

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Dining Services Director information

See Springfield, MO salary details

$29.6K

$67K

$107.3K

How much do dining services director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for dining services director in Springfield, MO is $67,050.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,600.00 and $81,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a dining services director do?

A director of dining services oversees the daily and long-term operations of a dining or food service facility. This job is common in large-scale food operations, such as hospital, residential, or school cafeterias, large catering services, and community outreach programs such as soup kitchens or meals on wheels for seniors. As a director of dining services, your responsibilities include administrative and managerial tasks. You hire and train new kitchen staff and other employees, schedule delivery services to residents or institutional customers, oversee purchasing orders, and direct other workers as needed.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a dining services director, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Dining Services Director, you need expertise in food service management, budgeting, menu planning, and often a degree in hospitality or culinary arts. Familiarity with food safety regulations, inventory management systems, and staff scheduling software is typically required. Leadership, customer service orientation, and strong organizational skills set outstanding candidates apart in this role. These skills ensure efficient operations, high-quality dining experiences, and compliance with health standards in a fast-paced environment.

What are some common challenges faced by a dining services director and how can they be effectively managed?

Dining Services Directors often encounter challenges such as maintaining consistent food quality, managing diverse teams, and balancing budget constraints while meeting the needs of residents or customers. Success in this role requires strong organizational skills, proactive communication with both staff and clients, and the ability to adapt menus or operations based on feedback and regulatory requirements. Building a collaborative team environment and investing in staff training can help address these challenges and ensure smooth daily operations.

What is the difference between Dining Services Director vs Food Service Manager?

AspectDining Services DirectorFood Service Manager
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in hospitality, food service, or related field; certifications like ServSafe are commonOften requires a high school diploma or associate degree; certifications like ServSafe are also common
Work EnvironmentOversees multiple dining facilities, often in large institutions like hospitals, universities, or corporate campusesManages daily operations of a specific food service location, such as a restaurant or cafeteria
Employer & IndustryEmployers include healthcare, education, and corporate sectors; industry focus on large-scale food service management

The Dining Services Director and Food Service Manager roles both involve overseeing food operations, but the director typically manages multiple locations or departments, requiring broader strategic planning, while the manager focuses on daily operations at a single site. The director position often demands higher credentials and experience, reflecting its leadership scope.

What job categories do people searching Dining Services Director jobs in Springfield, MO look for?

The top searched job categories for Dining Services Director jobs in Springfield, MO are:

What cities near Springfield, MO are hiring for Dining Services Director jobs?

Cities near Springfield, MO with the most Dining Services Director job openings:

Infographic showing various Dining Services Director job openings in Springfield, MO as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,050 per year, or $32.2 per hour.

$18/hr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 4 days ago


Cedarhurst Senior Living rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 59 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

111th of 243 rated social care providers


Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
Position: Cook
About Cedarhurst:
Cedarhurst Senior Living is a leading provider of senior living communities, dedicated to enriching the lives of residents through exceptional care and personalized services. With a commitment to excellence and innovation, Cedarhurst creates vibrant environments where seniors can thrive and enjoy a fulfilling lifestyle.
Why Work for Cedarhurst:
  • At Cedarhurst, our core values guide how we work together and how we care for those we serve. We expect every team member to be passionate, trustworthy, empathetic, positive, respectful, and approachable. Being part of Cedarhurst means making a meaningful difference every day.
  • We believe our team is our greatest strength. That's why we invest in comprehensive training, as well as opportunities for both personal and professional growth. We're committed to promoting from within and supporting team members who want to build their careers with us.
  • Cedarhurst offers a competitive benefits package, including medical insurance, life insurance, long-term disability coverage, and a 401(k) plan with company match (after one year of service) for eligible employees.
  • At Cedarhurst, we go beyond the standard benefits program to recognize and support our team. Along with comprehensive benefits, we offer GROW Points-a unique rewards system that celebrates your hard work and dedication. You'll also enjoy perks like exclusive Skechers shoe discounts, early paycheck access, and more!

Position Summary:
The Cook, reporting directly to the Dining Services Director, is responsible for preparing high-quality, nutritious, and appealing meals that meet or exceed the hospitality and service standards of the community. This position plays a vital role in supporting residents' health and wellbeing by accommodating individual dietary needs, maintaining food safety and infection control standards, and ensuring meals are served on time and at appropriate temperatures. The Cook also contributes to a positive dining experience by upholding culinary excellence, assisting with kitchen organization, and supporting the training and development of new dining team members. By collaborating with the Dining Services Director, kitchen staff, and other community departments, this position helps foster a welcoming, safe, and resident-focused environment.
Essential Functions:
  • Ensure the proper preparation, portioning, and serving of foods as indicated on the menu cycle and standardized recipes.
  • Taste and prepare food to determine quality.
  • Prepare all special dietary needs as directed by the Dining Services Director and/or menus assigned.
  • Determine food and supplies needed and coordinate meal production with serving hours.
  • Assist with proper documentation of temperature logs, taste panel forms, and cleaning schedules.
  • Assist with orientation and training of new kitchen staff.
  • Handle food in a safe and appropriate manner.
  • Practice all safety and loss prevention procedures.
  • Attend all in-services as required.
  • Maintain safety standards as outlined by Cedarhurst guidelines for infection control.
  • Utilize basic mathematical concepts such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, fractions, percentages, rations, and proportions to practical situations.
  • Maintain appropriate food temperatures by ensuring proper cooling/heating procedures are followed and equipment is working properly.
  • Remains current and up to date with all food safety licensing requirements for FDA, state, county, and local authorities along with ensuring all guidelines are adhered to.
  • Ensure effective communication is being utilized by community staff with the residents' families concerning residents' care, encompassing their physical, personal, and emotional wellbeing.
  • Work well with others and take direction from management, as well as taking initiative with the capability to engage in conflict intervention and resolution for residents, families, employees, and others as needed.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:
  • High School Diploma or equivalent preferred.
  • At least one (1) year experience as a cook is preferred.
  • Applicable state/county licensure required.
  • Food Manager Certification, or ability to obtain, is required.
  • CPR or BLS certification preferred.
  • Demonstrated proficiency in common digital tools and applications, including Microsoft Office programs (Outlook, Excel, Word), web-based platforms, electronic health record systems, and any HR-related systems as applicable.

Working Conditions:
  • This position may need to walk or stand for extended periods and move throughout the community, resident apartments, and other areas of the community.
  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee may occasionally be required to stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl, as well as climb or balance.
  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is required to communicate effectively and identify/interpret written information.
  • This position may need to lift up to fifty (50) pounds independently, and up to 200 pounds with assistance.
  • Individuals in this position are required to follow all infection prevention and control protocols, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) when necessary, to ensure the health and safety of residents, staff, and visitors.
  • This role involves actively participating in all staff activities aimed at fostering teamwork, unity, and morale. The individual will contribute as a collaborative team player, working alongside colleagues to create a supportive and cohesive work environment.
  • Individuals in this position are required to stay current on all training and ongoing education initiatives. They are expected to actively pursue self-improvement and embrace opportunities for continuous learning to enhance their skills and knowledge.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, we will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages prospective employees and incumbents to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.
Cedarhurst considers the health and safety of its residents, family members, and team members as its highest priorities. All offers of employment are contingent upon the successful completion of a background check and drug screening, participation in required health assessments (such as TB testing or physical evaluations), and the use of designated personal protective equipment (PPE) as required by company policy and applicable law.
Salary Description
$18.00 / hour

What Cedarhurst Senior Living employees say

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About Cedarhurst Senior Living

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Cedarhurst Senior Living, headquartered in Saint Louis, Missouri, USA, is a company deeply ingrained in the senior care industry. Their main objective revolves around providing high-quality, comfortable, and enriching housing and care services for seniors. As indicated on their official website, cedarhurstliving.com, Cedarhurst focuses on supporting seniors through various stages of aging. Their comprehensive service portfolio includes Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care, and Personal Care. Established with a strong belief in the importance of community, family, and compassionate care, Cedarhurst has grown as an industry leader prioritizing the comfort and well-being of its residents.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

St. Louis, MO, US

Year founded

2007

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