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Dining Services Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Dining Services Director

Portland, OR ยท On-site

$31.25 - $33.65/hr

As the Dining Services Director at Regency Park, you're responsible for overall management of the dining services department team and operations. You'll lead the way in providing five-star service to ...

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Dining Services information

See salary details

$32.5K

$73.7K

$118K

How much do dining services jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for dining services in the United States is $73,712.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,500.00 and $90,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are dining services?

Dining services refer to the operations and staff responsible for preparing, serving, and managing food and beverages in places such as schools, hospitals, businesses, and other institutions. These services include menu planning, food preparation, meal service, and ensuring food safety standards. Dining services staff may also handle catering for events and maintain cleanliness in dining areas. The goal is to provide nutritious, safe, and enjoyable meals for guests or residents.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in dining services?

To thrive in Dining Services, you need strong customer service skills, basic food safety knowledge, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with point-of-sale (POS) systems, food preparation equipment, and food handling certifications like ServSafe are typically required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication help professionals exceed guest expectations and maintain a positive dining environment. These skills ensure efficient service, food safety, and customer satisfaction, all of which are essential for success in dining operations.

What are some common challenges faced in dining services roles, and how can I prepare for them?

Dining services professionals often encounter challenges such as managing high-volume meal periods, accommodating diverse dietary needs, and maintaining excellent customer service under pressure. To prepare, it's helpful to develop strong communication and multitasking skills, as well as a proactive approach to problem-solving. Familiarity with food safety standards and the ability to work collaboratively with kitchen staff and servers will also help you thrive in this fast-paced environment.

What is the difference between Dining Services vs Food Service Worker?

AspectDining ServicesFood Service Worker
CredentialsMay require food safety certificationsOften requires food handler permits
Work EnvironmentRestaurants, cafeterias, cateringFast food, cafeterias, catering
Employer & IndustryHospitality, education, healthcareFood establishments, institutions
Job FocusCustomer service, meal service, setupFood prep, serving, cleaning

Dining Services typically involves managing meal service, customer interaction, and setup in various settings like hospitals or schools. Food Service Workers focus on food preparation, serving, and maintaining cleanliness. While both roles require food safety knowledge and involve working in food establishments, Dining Services emphasizes customer experience and service management, whereas Food Service Workers concentrate on food handling and operational tasks.

More about Dining Services jobs

What cities are hiring for Dining Services jobs?

Cities with the most Dining Services job openings:

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

The most popular types of Dining Services jobs are:

What states have the most Dining Services jobs?

States with the most job openings for Dining Services jobs include:

Infographic showing various Dining Services job openings in the United States 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 $73,712 per year, or $35.4 per hour.

Director of Dining Services

Front Porch Communities and Services

Chula Vista, CA โ€ข On-site

$100K - $115K/yr

Full-time

Posted 27 days ago


Job description

Fredericka Manor Retirement Community is Hiring!
Director of Dining Services (RD or CDM)
Full Time: Monday - Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Pay Range: $100,000 - $115,000 Annually
Summary:
Under the direction of the Executive Director, with input from the Vice President of Nutrition and Dining Service, the Director of Dining Services (DDS), is responsible for overall organization and operation of the Food Service within all areas of the community, i.e., Residential, Assisted Living and Care Center/Health Services Depts. The Director of Dining Services; maintains a high standard of performance by kitchen and dining room employees and ensures that meals served are attractive and appetizing. The Director ensures that appropriate quality and quantity of food and supplies are purchased while maintaining the dining service operation within the general budgetary limitations prescribed. The DDS ensures that modified diets are followed and that diet counseling is provided for all residents when needed by performing the following duties.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
Includes the following. Other duties may be assigned as necessary.
โ€ข Provides quality Customer Service efficiently to residents, families, co-workers and vendors in a manner to ensure satisfaction.
โ€ข Ability to direct the operations of the Department; ability to work effectively with all levels of employees within the community as well as the corporate office; self-motivated, utilizing initiative and good judgment in assigning tasks, delegation of responsibilities, resolving operational problems and employee grievances.
โ€ข Provides quality Customer Service efficiently to residents, families, co-workers and vendors in a manner to ensure satisfaction.
โ€ข May be a registered dietitian (RD) but if not must be familiar with principles of nutrition as related to menu planning, established patterns for modified diets, and be able to adjust the corporate menu to meet facility needs.
โ€ข Must have the skill to purchase and direct the preparation of quality food on a large scale and knowledge of the principles of management which relate to Kitchen and Dining Room operations, as well as the importance of safety in food handling and equipment; responsible for the purchasing, proper maintenance, and repairs of all equipment in the Dining Services Department.
โ€ข Conducts weekly meetings with management team of the Dining Services Department. Interviews and hires management personnel with the assistance of the Executive Director and the Human Resources Department. Maintains efficient utilization of personnel. Confers with the Vice President of Nutrition and Dining Services and Executive Director concerning Department operation, scheduling, budgeting constraints, and resident food service.
โ€ข Responsible for menu planning, catering special events and theme days. Coordinates this information with the Dining Services Management team.
โ€ข The DDS, if a RD, integrates the dietetic aspects of patient care into the facility's total interdisciplinary program through attendance at the Resident Care Conferences, communication and sharing of specialized information with the medical and nursing staff; completing the nutritional assessments in a timely manner; responsible for dietary representation at patient care conferences at the Care Center with quarterly or more frequent updates; responsible for solving any dietary problems, short term goals and care plans. As part of the interdisciplinary approach to patient care, initiates plans or reviews plans initiated by nursing staff.
โ€ข Confers with the Vice President of Nutrition and Dining Services, and Executive Director concerning operating problems and ongoing challenges. Acts as a liaison between the Care Center and the shared Dining Services, by attending both Department Head Meetings.
โ€ข Must ensure appropriate modified diets are available for residents. If a RD, must be available to residents for dietary counseling and communication with their physicians regarding dietary prescriptions.
โ€ข Responsible for the Dining Services In-services of all personnel; coordinates with the Supervisor/Dietary Manager to provide Dining Services in servicing for staff.
โ€ข Follows highest standards of cleanliness. Follows all federal, state and corporate policies, health codes and guidelines in preparation and handling of foodstuffs.
โ€ข Performs all duties in a safe and efficient manner. Wears safety equipment as required for the job. Reports any safety hazards and/or accidents to supervisor.
โ€ข Ensures & follows department safety standards, practice correct body mechanic techniques and participate in campus-wide safety programs.
โ€ข Attends all mandatory in-service meetings. Complies with all department and facilities policies and procedures.
โ€ข Understand facility's fire and disaster plans; follow established procedures during drills and actual emergencies.
โ€ข Supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the organization's policies and applicable laws include managing subordinate supervisors who supervise employees in the Dining Room and Dining Services Department; responsible for the overall direction, coordination, and evaluation of these units; interviewing, hiring, and training employees; planning, assigning, and directing work; appraising performance; rewarding and disciplining employees; addressing complaints and resolving problems.
Credentials:
Essential:
*Registered Dietitian (RD) preferred, or a Certified Dietary Manager (CDM) from state approved program
* ServSafe or Equivalent Certification required
Education with Equivalent Qualifications:
Essential:
* Bachelor's Degree
Experience with Equivalent Qualifications:
Essential:
* 1 Year 1 yr exp as Dietitian in long term care
* 1 Year Director of Dining Services
* 1 Year Retirement home or geriatric experience preferred
Compensation Disclaimer: The actual compensation offered will depend on a wide range of factors including, but not limited to, the selected candidate's knowledge, skills, experience, training, education, and licensure/certifications (as applicable).
Front Porch is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We support all aspects of diversity and provide equal employment opportunity to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, marital status, national origin, age, sexual orientation, disability or status as a veteran in accordance with the applicable nondiscrimination laws. Final candidates must successfully complete a pre-employment physical, physical abilities test, drug screen and criminal background clearance.