Assistant Manager - UVA-Brandon Ave

UVA Dine is seeking a highly motivated and customer-focused hourly Assistant Manager to join our leadership team at the Gaston Food Hub on the University of Virginia grounds. The Gaston Food Hub is a dynamic multi-concept retail dining facility. This full-time position is responsible for assisting in the daily oversight of operations, leading and supporting frontline staff, and ensuring exceptional customer service and adherence to all operational and food safety standards. The ideal candidate will be a proactive leader with strong interpersonal skills and a commitment to fostering a positive and efficient dining environment.

Compensation & Benefits:

• Hourly Rate: $20.00 per hour

• As a full-time Aramark employee, you may be eligible for a comprehensive benefits package, which may include:

  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance

  • 401(k) Retirement Plan (with potential company match based on eligibility)

  • Paid Time Off (PTO) / Vacation and Sick Leave accruals

  • Paid Holidays

  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

  • Life and Disability Insurance

  • Opportunities for career growth and development

Note: Benefit eligibility may vary based on specific plan details and length of service.

Job Responsibilities

• Operational Oversight:

  • Assist the Unit Manager/Chef Manager in the daily management of all food service operations within the Gaston Food Hub, across various concepts.

  • Ensure smooth and efficient service flow during all meal periods, including opening and closing procedures.

  • Monitor food quality, presentation, and portion control, ensuring adherence to standardized recipes and brand standards.

  • Oversee cash handling procedures, including register reconciliation and daily reporting.

• Team Leadership & Support:

  • Supervise, train, coach, and motivate frontline food service staff and student workers.

  • Delegate tasks effectively and ensure staff are properly assigned to meet operational needs.

  • Provide ongoing feedback and support to team members, contributing to their development.

  • Foster a positive, collaborative, and respectful work environment.

• Customer Service & Experience:

  • Actively engage with customers, addressing inquiries, resolving concerns, and ensuring a high level of guest satisfaction.

  • Lead by example in delivering exceptional customer service.

• Compliance & Safety:

  • Ensure strict adherence to all food safety, sanitation, and HACCP guidelines throughout the facility.

  • Monitor and maintain cleanliness and organization of all dining, kitchen, and storage areas.

  • Ensure compliance with all Aramark and UVA Dine policies and procedures, including uniform and grooming standards.

• Inventory & Administration:

  • Assist with inventory management, including receiving, stocking, and rotating food and supplies.

  • Support administrative tasks such as scheduling, timecard approvals, and basic reporting.

At Aramark, developing new skills and doing what it takes to get the job done make a positive impact for our employees and for our customers. In order to meet our commitments, job duties may change or new ones may be assigned without formal notice.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent; some college coursework or a degree in Hospitality Management or a related field preferred.

• Minimum of 1-2 years of experience in food service, with at least 6 months to 1 year in a lead or supervisory role, preferably in a fast-casual, retail, or multi-concept dining environment.

• Strong knowledge of food service operations, including food preparation, service, and sanitation.

• Proven ability to lead, motivate, and train a team.

• Excellent communication (verbal and written), interpersonal, and customer service skills.

• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment, manage multiple priorities, and handle challenging situations calmly and effectively.

• Proficiency in point-of-sale (POS) systems and basic computer applications (e.g., Microsoft Office Suite).

• ServSafe certification required or ability to obtain within a specified timeframe.

Physical Demands:

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods (e.g., 8+ hours).

• Ability to lift and carry up to 30 pounds occasionally.

• Ability to work in a dynamic food service environment, which may include exposure to hot, cold, and noisy conditions.

• Manual dexterity for operating equipment and handling food items.

• Ability to bend, stoop, and reach as needed.

Education