Food Operations Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

We are seeking an experienced Food Operations Manager 3 for Descanso Gardens in La Canada Flintridge, CA.

Descanso Gardens is a renowned nonprofit botanical garden in La Canada Flintridge, CA, welcoming 750,000+ visitors annually. Known for its world-class plant collections, seasonal displays, and International Camellia Garden of Excellence designation.

About the job

Join a leadership role responsible for overseeing on-site food service operations and delivering consistent, high-quality service outcomes. This position drives operational performance, safety compliance, financial results, and long-term client success through hands-on leadership and strategic execution.

The role of an individual contributor within the organization focuses on completing specific tasks and projects; contributing directly through their skills and expertise. Performs specialized technical tasks to support operations. Work is primarily achieved independently, however may collaborate with a team.

Pay Range: $89250 - $115500

What's in it for you

• Lead a high-performing team that directly influences client satisfaction and daily service experiences.
• Drive operational excellence across food quality, safety, and service delivery.
• Manage high-volume dining operations with ownership of financial and performance outcomes.
• Champion sustainability initiatives and culinary standards that elevate the dining experience.
• Build trusted client partnerships while delivering on contractual commitments.
• Gain professional growth through responsibility for people leadership, planning, and execution.

What you'll bring 

• Experience leading, training, and developing on-site food service teams.
• Knowledge of HACCP standards, regulatory requirements, and high-volume dining environments.
• Hospitality-focused approach centered on service quality and guest experience.
• Experience developing and executing operational and strategic plans aligned with client objectives.
• Creative mindset supporting culinary innovation, sustainability, and continuous improvement.

Requirements

• Education Requirement: Bachelor's degree
• Management Experience: 3 years
• Related Experience: 3 years

What we offer 

Compensation is fair and equitable, partially determined by a candidate's education level or years of relevant experience. Salary offers are based on a candidate's specific criteria, like experience, skills, education, and training. Sodexo offers a comprehensive benefits package that may include: 

• Medical, Dental, Vision Care and Wellness Programs 

• 401(k) Plan with Matching Contributions 

• Paid Time Off and Company Holidays 

• Career Growth Opportunities and Tuition Reimbursement 

More extensive information is provided to new employees upon hire.

Who we are 

At Sodexo, our purpose is to create a better everyday for everyone and build a better life for all. We believe in improving the quality of life for those we serve and contributing to the economic, social, and environmental progress in the communities where we operate. Sodexo partners with clients to provide a truly memorable experience for both customers and employees alike. We do this by providing food service, catering, facilities management, and other integrated solutions worldwide. 

Our company values you for you; you will be treated fairly and with respect, and you can be yourself. You will have your ideas count and your opinions heard because we can be a stronger team when you're happy at work. This is why we embrace diversity and inclusion as core values, fostering an environment where all employees are valued and respected. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to individuals regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, gender identity, pregnancy, disability, sexual orientation, military status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. If you need assistance with the application process, please completethis form.