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Director Culinary Operations Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Lakeside Hotel Casino

Executive Chef

West Des Moines, IA · On-site

$70K - $96K/yr

Culinary Operations * Direct all food preparation areas, ensuring quality, presentation, and timeliness. * Develop and standardize menus, recipes, and portion controls to ensure consistency.

Lakeside Hotel Casino

Executive Chef

Osceola, IA · On-site

$67K - $92K/yr

Culinary Operations * Direct all food preparation areas, ensuring quality, presentation, and timeliness. * Develop and standardize menus, recipes, and portion controls to ensure consistency.

Compass Group

Director of Dining Services

Davenport, IA · On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

Director of Dining Services - Davenport, IA Salary: $80,000 - $90,000 Other Forms of Compensation ... Ability to quickly evaluate personnel, operations, and culinary situations and make appropriate ...

Compass Group

Director of Dining Services

Davenport, IA · On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

Director of Dining Services - Davenport, IA Salary: $80,000 - $90,000 Other Forms of Compensation ... Ability to quickly evaluate personnel, operations, and culinary situations and make appropriate ...

Compass Group

Director of Dining Services

Davenport, IA · On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

Director of Dining Services - Davenport, IA Salary: $80,000 - $90,000 Other Forms of Compensation ... Ability to quickly evaluate personnel, operations, and culinary situations and make appropriate ...

Unidine

Director of Dining Services

Davenport, IA · On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

Director of Dining Services - Davenport, IA Salary: $80,000 - $90,000 Other Forms of Compensation ... Ability to quickly evaluate personnel, operations, and culinary situations and make appropriate ...

APARIUM HOTEL GROUP

Executive Chef

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$69K - $96K/yr

... the culinary operation. It is critical that you possess a strong background and knowledge of ... Be a key partner with the Director of Food and Beverage, engaging in constant communication. Work ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsCulinary Operations JobsDirector Culinary Operations JobsDirector Culinary Operations Jobs in Iowa

Director Culinary Operations information

See Iowa salary details

$31.9K

$101.1K

$168.6K

How much do director culinary operations jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for director culinary operations in Iowa is $101,140.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $70,900.00 and $127,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a director culinary operations?

A Director of Culinary Operations oversees the strategic and operational aspects of a food service or hospitality organization. They are responsible for menu development, kitchen efficiency, cost control, quality assurance, and staff management. This role ensures that culinary standards align with brand goals, customer expectations, and industry regulations. Additionally, they collaborate with executive leadership to drive innovation, optimize processes, and enhance profitability.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a director culinary operations?

A Director Culinary Operations typically oversees multiple kitchen teams, manages food and labor costs, ensures compliance with safety regulations, and develops menus that align with company goals and customer preferences. They often collaborate with executive chefs, vendors, and management to streamline processes and maintain quality standards. Daily tasks also include monitoring inventory, training staff, and troubleshooting operational challenges. Balancing administrative duties with hands-on kitchen oversight is essential for achieving both culinary excellence and operational efficiency.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the director culinary operations position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Director Culinary Operations, you need extensive experience in food service management, menu development, budgeting, and team leadership, typically supported by a culinary degree and progressive supervisory roles. Familiarity with inventory management systems, food safety certifications (like ServSafe), and proficiency in kitchen equipment and scheduling software are crucial. Exceptional organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills help you lead diverse teams and deliver high-quality guest experiences. These abilities ensure the efficient operation of culinary departments, maintain compliance with industry standards, and drive business success.

How much does a Director Culinary Operations make in the US?

A Director of Culinary Operations in the US typically earns between $80,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the size of the organization. This role often requires strong leadership skills, culinary expertise, and experience managing large teams and budgets.

What does a director of culinary operations do?

A director of culinary operations oversees the planning, development, and management of food service activities within an organization. They ensure quality standards, manage kitchen staff, develop menus, control budgets, and implement safety and sanitation protocols to deliver consistent dining experiences.

What are popular job titles related to Director Culinary Operations jobs in Iowa?

For Director Culinary Operations jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Director Culinary Operations jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Director Culinary Operations jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Director Culinary Operations jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Director Culinary Operations job openings:

Director Culinary Operations jobs near you

Executive Chef

Lakeside Hotel Casino

West Des Moines, IA • On-site

$70K - $96K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago

Lakeside Hotel Casino rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

20th of 164 rated casinos

Job description

Key Responsibilities - (Other duties may be assigned)

Leadership & Management

  • Lead, train, and mentor kitchen managers and staff.
  • Plan, assign, and evaluate work performance, providing coaching, recognition, and corrective action as needed.
  • Oversee hiring, scheduling, and workforce planning to ensure effective operations.

Culinary Operations

  • Direct all food preparation areas, ensuring quality, presentation, and timeliness.
  • Develop and standardize menus, recipes, and portion controls to ensure consistency.
  • Estimate food consumption, order supplies, and monitor inventory.
  • Maintain high standards of sanitation, food safety, and kitchen cleanliness.

Financial & Compliance

  • Control food and labor costs through effective purchasing, portioning, and waste reduction.
  • Ensure compliance with Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission regulations, health and safety standards, and company policies.
  • Accurately maintain departmental records and reports.

Collaboration & Guest Experience

  • Work closely with the Director of Hospitality to align culinary operations with business goals.
  • Support marketing and F&B leadership with special events, banquets, and promotions.
  • Participate in operational meetings and promote strong communication across departments.

Skills & Qualifications

  • Strong leadership and communication skills.
  • Ability to train, coach, and develop a diverse culinary team.
  • Knowledge of food safety, sanitation, and culinary best practices.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office; strong math skills required.
  • Ability to work varied shifts, including weekends and holidays.

Education & Experience

  • High School Diploma or GED required.
  • Culinary Arts degree preferred.
  • Minimum three years of culinary leadership and supervisory experience.

Certifications & Licenses

  • ServSafe Certification (required).
  • Valid Driver’s License.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain an Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission License.

Why Join Our Team?

  • Paid Time Off (PTO) earned each pay period
  • Paid holidays
  • Medical, Dental, Vision, and Virtual Doctor Visits
  • 401(k) with Company Match.
  • Free Life Insurance 
  • Optional coverage: Disability, Additional Life, Accident, and Critical Illness Insurance.
  • Free Employee Assistance Plan (EAP), including counseling, legal guidance, and more.
  • Employee discounts, recognition programs, and team celebrations.
  • Dynamic casino environment with opportunities for professional growth.

DISCLAIMER: This job posting is intended to describe the general nature of this position. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required. Employee benefits may vary by location, position, length of service, and employment status. Final candidates will be required to complete a drug test and a background check. Many positions will require a state gaming license. Affinity Gaming is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, national origin, gender, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, veteran status, or marital status.

#ZRHLK

 

Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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