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Dining Services Manager Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Director of Dining Services - Davenport, IA Salary: $80,000 - $90,000 Other Forms of Compensation ... Coaches and supports team to optimally manage wages, food & beverage cost, and controllable ...

Director of Dining Services - Davenport, IA Salary: $80,000 - $90,000 Other Forms of Compensation ... Coaches and supports team to optimally manage wages, food & beverage cost, and controllable ...

Director of Dining Services - Davenport, IA Salary: $80,000 - $90,000 Other Forms of Compensation ... Coaches and supports team to optimally manage wages, food & beverage cost, and controllable ...

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Dining Services Manager information

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$10

$22

$38

How much do dining services manager jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for dining services manager in Iowa is $22.49, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.49 and $26.20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a dining services manager?

Dining Services Managers are professionals responsible for overseeing the daily operations of food service establishments, such as cafeterias, restaurants, or dining halls. Their duties include managing staff, ensuring food quality and safety, creating menus, controlling budgets, and maintaining customer satisfaction. They work closely with chefs, servers, and other staff to ensure a smooth and efficient dining experience. Strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills are essential for success in this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a dining services manager?

To thrive as a Dining Services Manager, you need expertise in food service operations, menu planning, budgeting, and typically a degree in hospitality management or related experience. Familiarity with point-of-sale (POS) systems, inventory management software, and food safety certifications like ServSafe are commonly required. Strong leadership, organization, and communication skills help foster a motivated team and ensure excellent customer service. These skills are vital for maintaining efficient operations, compliance, and high-quality dining experiences.

What are some common challenges faced by dining services managers, and how can they be addressed?

Dining Services Managers often encounter challenges such as managing diverse teams, maintaining high food quality standards, and adapting to varying customer preferences. Balancing operational efficiency with excellent customer service can be demanding, especially during peak meal times. Effective communication, ongoing staff training, and implementing clear processes can help address these challenges. Additionally, staying current with food safety regulations and industry trends ensures continued success in the role.

What does a dining services manager do?

A dining services manager oversees the daily operations of food service establishments, including managing staff, ensuring food safety and quality, controlling inventory, and maintaining customer satisfaction. They often coordinate with kitchen staff, handle scheduling, and ensure compliance with health regulations.

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

The most popular types of Dining Services jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Dining Services Manager jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Dining Services Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Dining Services Manager job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,779 per year, or $22.5 per hour.

Catering Manager

Creative Dining Services

Sioux Center, IA • On-site

$47K - $52K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago


Creative Dining Services rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

31st of 68 rated caterers


Job description

Creative Dining Services is looking for a full-time Catering Manager at Dordt University. The Catering Manager works within the Dining Services Department to ensure that excellence in customer service is being provided throughout each catered event, while assuring that food is presented attractively, and in a fiscally responsible and sustainable manner, according to customer wishes and company standards. Works professionally and cooperatively as a valued member of the dining services management team, assisting with any aspect of the dining services operation necessary. 


Core Responsibilities of the Catering Manager 

  • Maintains excellent public relations with all customers, clients, staff, vendors, and the community; achieves high levels of customer and client satisfaction; communicates professionally with clients during events to assure their needs are met 
  • Builds relationships with current clients in order to grow catering sales; promptly responds to all catering inquiries 
  • Maintains established food presentation and service standards; providing ongoing enhancement to these based upon current trends in the catering industry 
  • Updates production and catering staff on changes that occur to a catered event 
  • Communicates catering menu offerings in an attractive and effective manner, paying attention to potential special dietary needs of the customer 
  • Works in conjunction with production, conference services, and sales staff to plan and coordinate details of catered events 
  • Prepares all billing of catered events 
  • Maintains an organized system of comprehensive record keeping for each catered event  

Maintains a neat and organized office area and performs other office duties as directed by the General Manager
 

The Ideal Candidate Will Have: 

  • High school diploma or equivalent; Bachelors in hospitality or related field preferred 
  • 3 + years supervisory experience 
  • ServSafe Certification 
  • Knowledge of proper table service techniques and design preferred  
  • MS Office product computer skills, ability to learn event management software
     

We Offer Full-Time Employees: 

  • Competitive pay and bonus opportunities 
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance 
  • 401(k) with a company match 
  • Paid time off 
  • And much, much more!
     

About Creative Dining Services  

Creative Dining Services partners with college, universities, Fortune 100 companies, full-service senior living communities, conference centers and K-12 schools and camps to provide a different kind of hospitality and facility management services experience – one that’s fun, innovative, and focused on your community. Why? Because that’s how it should be. 


Creative Dining Services is an Equal Opportunity and Veteran Friendly Employer.
 


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