Operations Assistant – Dining Services
Pioneer College Caterers at Cairn University is seeking a highly organized, customer-focused Operations Assistant to join our management support team. This is a dynamic, hands-on position that supports the daily administrative, retail, catering, and operational functions of one of the University's busiest departments.
If you enjoy a fast-paced environment where no two days are alike and take pride in organization, customer service, and teamwork, we'd love to meet you.
Position Summary
The Operations Assistant provides direct support to the Food Service Director by assisting with office administration, Highlands Coffee Shop operations, catering coordination, student employee supervision, scheduling, purchasing, and daily operational support.
This position plays a key role in ensuring exceptional service for students, faculty, staff, and campus guests while helping maintain the efficient day-to-day operation of the dining program.
Primary ResponsibilitiesAdministrative Support
- Assist the Food Service Director with daily administrative operations.
- Maintain organized filing systems and confidential employee records.
- Prepare reports, correspondence, and operational documents.
- Process invoices, purchase orders, catering paperwork, and other administrative records.
- Maintain office organization and supplies.
- Assist with payroll preparation and timekeeping.
- Support onboarding and orientation of new employees.
- Answer telephones and respond professionally to guests, faculty, vendors, and campus departments.
Highlands Coffee Shop Support
- Assist with daily Highlands Coffee Shop operations.
- Provide leadership and direction to student employees.
- Ensure outstanding customer service.
- Monitor product quality, merchandising, cleanliness, and presentation.
- Assist with inventory control and ordering.
- Help maintain food safety and sanitation standards.
- Assist in implementing promotions and seasonal offerings.
Catering & Event Support
- Coordinate catering orders with campus clients.
- Assist in planning and organizing campus events.
- Prepare catering paperwork and production schedules.
- Communicate event details with culinary and service staff.
- Ensure catering events meet quality and presentation expectations.
- Assist with billing documentation and event follow-up.
Staffing & Team Support
- Assist with recruiting and interviewing applicants.
- Coordinate employee scheduling.
- Assist with training new employees.
- Help supervise student workers.
- Promote teamwork and positive workplace culture.
- Provide operational support during peak service periods.
Purchasing & Inventory
- Assist with ordering food, beverages, paper goods, and supplies.
- Coordinate vendor deliveries.
- Maintain inventory records.
- Assist with monthly inventories and cost control.
- Support receiving and product organization as needed.
Operational Excellence
- Assist management with daily operational oversight.
- Help identify opportunities to improve efficiency and guest satisfaction.
- Maintain cleanliness and organization throughout the dining program.
- Support continuous improvement initiatives.
- Serve as a resource for students, faculty, staff, and guests.
Qualifications
- Previous experience in hospitality, food service, retail, office administration, or customer service preferred.
- Strong organizational and multitasking abilities.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Comfortable working independently and as part of a team.
- Professional appearance and positive attitude.
- Ability to prioritize multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.
- Working knowledge of Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook).
- Scheduling or administrative experience preferred.
- Point-of-Sale or retail experience is a plus.
- Catering or event planning experience is beneficial.
Ideal Candidate
We're looking for someone who:
- Enjoys helping people.
- Takes initiative.
- Thrives in a fast-paced environment.
- Is detail-oriented and dependable.
- Has excellent customer service skills.
- Enjoys organizing projects and solving problems.
- Works well with students, faculty, and staff.
- Is flexible and willing to assist wherever needed.
- Takes pride in supporting a successful team.
Why Join Pioneer at Cairn University?
At Pioneer College Caterers, you'll become part of a collaborative team dedicated to creating exceptional dining experiences for the Cairn University community. This position offers a unique opportunity to develop skills in hospitality management, administration, catering, retail operations, and team leadership while working in a welcoming collegiate environment.
If you're looking for a rewarding position where you can make a meaningful impact every day, we'd love to hear from you.
Pay: From $18.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Flexible schedule
- Health insurance
- Health savings account
- Retirement plan
Work Location: In person
