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Ku Dining Jobs (NOW HIRING)

KU Dining Cook

Lawrence, KS · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

KU Dining - Residential Dining Reports To: Varies based on location FLSA Status: Non-Exempt Pay Rate: The anticipated pay for this position starts at $15.00. The final rate will be determined based ...

Why You'll Love Working Here At KU Dining, our mission is to create an unparalleled dining experience for our guests, foster a culture of excellence among our well-trained and empowered staff, and ...

Accounting Specialist

Lawrence, KS · On-site

$20 - $27/hr

Communicates regularly with other campus departments including but not limited to KU Dining, Student Accounts & Receivables, Financial Aid & Scholarships, and Shared Service Center. * Attend regular ...

Administrative Associate

Lawrence, KS · On-site

$16.50 - $20.50/hr

Serve as liaison with KU Endowment, maintain alumni and donor contact lists, and generate reports ... Manage academic unit and grant-related event logistics such as travel, room reservations, dining ...

Administrative Associate

Lawrence, KS · On-site

$16.50 - $20.50/hr

Serve as liaison with KU Endowment, maintain alumni and donor contact lists, and generate reports ... Manage academic unit and grant-related event logistics such as travel, room reservations, dining ...

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Ku Dining information

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How much do ku dining jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for ku dining in the United States is $15.20, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.46 and $16.35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Ku Dining vs Kitchen Staff?

AspectKu DiningKitchen Staff
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent, food safety certification often preferredHigh school diploma or equivalent, food safety certification often required
Work EnvironmentCustomer-facing, restaurant dining areaFood preparation area, behind the scenes
Employer & Industry UsageRestaurants, hospitality industryRestaurants, catering services, hospitality industry
Common Search & ComparisonKu Dining vs Kitchen Staff

Ku Dining roles typically involve customer service and front-of-house responsibilities in restaurants, while Kitchen Staff focus on food preparation and kitchen operations. Both roles require food safety knowledge and are essential in the hospitality industry, but they differ mainly in their work environment and daily tasks.

What are some common challenges faced by team members working in KU Dining, and how can they be successfully managed?

Team members in KU Dining often face challenges such as managing high-volume meal periods, maintaining food safety standards, and ensuring excellent customer service during busy times. Flexibility, strong communication, and a collaborative attitude are critical for handling these demands. New employees can expect to receive training on kitchen safety, customer interaction, and teamwork, which helps them adapt quickly. Building relationships with colleagues and seeking feedback from supervisors can also make the experience more rewarding and manageable.

What is KU Dining?

KU Dining refers to the dining services provided by the University of Kansas. It offers a variety of meal options for students, faculty, and staff through multiple dining halls, cafes, and retail locations on campus. KU Dining provides meal plans, catering services, and special dietary accommodations to ensure a diverse and inclusive dining experience. The goal is to support the campus community’s nutritional needs while promoting sustainability and wellness.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in KU Dining, and why are they important?

To thrive in KU Dining, strong customer service skills, basic food handling knowledge, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment are essential, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with point-of-sale (POS) systems, safe food handling procedures, and possibly a food handler’s permit are typically required. Teamwork, communication, and adaptability are valuable soft skills that help individuals excel in this role. These competencies ensure efficient service, food safety, and a positive dining experience for students and staff.
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What cities are hiring for Ku Dining jobs? Cities with the most Ku Dining job openings:
What states have the most Ku Dining jobs? States with the most job openings for Ku Dining jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Ku Dining jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Ku Dining jobs are:
KU Dining Cook

$15 - $18/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago


Job description

Department: KU Dining - Residential Dining
Reports To: Varies based on location
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Pay Rate: The anticipated pay for this position starts at $15.00. The final rate will be determined based on qualifications, experience, education, and years within the job or industry.
Schedule: Full-time• One weekend shift required• Flexible scheduling• No late nights
Why You'll Love Working Here
At KU Dining, our mission is to create an unparalleled dining experience for our guests, foster a culture of excellence among our well-trained and empowered staff, and provide inviting spaces that reflect the warmth of the KU community. We strive to set a standard that goes beyond nourishment-creating an environment where every meal becomes a highlight of the KU experience.
We employ both full-time and part-time team members to serve the University of Kansas' diverse dining needs. While our operations are large and fast-paced, every role and every employee makes a meaningful impact.
At KU Dining, we strive to provide a strong work-life balance and usually do - though certain busy periods may call for additional hours or longer days. Even so, our team members enjoy reliable schedules, meaningful time off, and a collaborative atmosphere. You'll take pride in creating great food for KU students and have opportunities to grow your skills and career.
What We're Looking For
We're hiring multiple full-time Residential Cooks across a variety of stations-including AM Cook, Midday Cook, PM Cook, Grill Cook, Pizza Cook, and Prep Cook.
These roles support daily culinary operations at Ekdahl Dining Center (Mrs. E's), North College Café, and South Dining Commons. Cooks prepare hot and cold menu items using standardized recipes, maintain clean and organized workstations, and uphold all HACCP and ServSafe food safety standards.
Depending on position, duties may include grilling, prepping ingredients, restocking service lines, baking pizzas, operating commercial kitchen equipment, and assisting during peak meal periods.
This fast-paced, team-oriented environment is ideal for individuals who thrive on consistency, collaboration, and quality. The ideal candidates will have:
  • At least one year of experience in a similar food service role
  • At least two years of experience in a high-volume, commercial kitchen

Successful candidates demonstrate strong culinary knowledge, quality control, teamwork, communication, and sound decision-making.
Duties & Responsibilities of All KU Memorial Union Positions
  • Adhere to University and KU Memorial Union policies and procedures.
  • Support the KU Memorial Unions' lines of effort, initiatives, and End State as described by the Executive Director, and work to achieve and uphold the department's mission and core values: community, dignity, empowerment, excellence, innovation, and safety.
  • Follow the 7 Team Principles: competence, creating a cohesive team through mutual trust, creating shared understanding, setting clear leader intent, written/verbal communication, disciplined initiative, and risk management.
  • Demonstrate a positive, solution-oriented attitude in performing job responsibilities and collaborating with colleagues to foster a respectful and productive work environment.
  • Always exhibit professional decorum while representing the KU Memorial Unions and the University.

What You'll Do
Food Preparation & Production
  • Prepare and cook hot and cold menu items following standardized recipes.
  • Operate grills, ovens, pizza equipment, and other commercial kitchen tools depending on assignment.
  • Assemble meals and restock items to support continuous service.

Food Safety & Sanitation
  • Follow HACCP, ServSafe, and KU Dining food safety standards.
  • Ensure proper storage, labeling, and temperature control of all food items.
  • Maintain a clean workstation using a "clean as you go" approach.

Teamwork & Collaboration
  • Work closely with coworkers to support smooth service during peak periods.
  • Assist in other areas when needed to ensure operational success.
  • Communicate effectively with supervisors and team members.

Customer Service
  • Provide friendly, professional service to students and guests.
  • Help maintain a welcoming dining environment.

What's Required to Be Considered
  • High School diploma or GED.
  • At least one year of food service preparation experience.
  • At least two years of experience in a high-volume, commercial kitchen.

The Ideal Candidate
  • Previous experience in a college or institutional dining environment.
  • ServSafe certification.

Physical Requirements
This position requires above-average physical activity, including stooping, bending, extensive walking, standing for long periods, and lifting up to 50 pounds. Must be able to work in a commercial kitchen and follow all safety and sanitation guidelines.
We've Got You Covered
KU Dining offers excellent benefits for full-time team members, including:
  • Generous paid sick leave, vacation, and holidays
  • Health, dental, vision, and life insurance
  • Highly competitive retirement plan with 7.5% employer match
  • Two months of paid parental leave
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Meal benefits... and more!

Ready to Apply?
Apply online at www.union.ku.edu/jobs and include your resume.
Questions? Reach out to unionhr@ku.edu for assistance.