STUDENT- Retail Cafe Student Manager

Job Description

About Ithaca College Dining Services
Ithaca College Dining Services is a dynamic and essential part of the campus community, serving students, faculty, staff, and guests across multiple dining platforms. Our operations include two all-you-care-to-eat dining halls, three retail dining locations, five satellite cafés, campus catering, and athletic/event concessions. Our team is committed to delivering exceptional food, warm hospitality, and a welcoming atmosphere while fostering a collaborative and inclusive work environment.

Position Summary
The Retail Student Manager serves as an extension of management, providing direct, hands-on supervision to ensure quality service, operational standards, and a positive guest experience within our campus cafés. Acting as a liaison between managers, associates, and student associates, this role involves coaching peers, delegating responsibilities, and maintaining smooth daily operations. Retail Student Managers gain valuable leadership experience while modeling professionalism, teamwork, and strong communication.

Essential Responsibilities

Report on time for all scheduled shifts in proper uniform

Demonstrate knowledge of and complete all timecard procedures

Comprehend and enact all standard operating procedures

Provide direct, in-person supervision of retail unit operations while on duty

Report equipment or product issues to the Retail Assistant Manager

Work at various stations within the retail unit as needed

Project a positive and professional attitude toward motivation, morale, communication, and guest service

Work mandatory events according to the academic calendar (e.g., semester openings, Finals Week, Senior Week)

Perform opening and closing walk-through duties

Inspect student workers' uniforms, check them in at each shift, and delegate responsibilities

Conduct pre-service meetings with on-duty supervisors or managers

Divide shift responsibilities among student staff

Follow sales accountability procedures

Model safe and efficient operations while working alongside staff

Motivate, encourage, and support staff performance through regular hands-on coaching

Perform other duties as assigned

Preferred Qualifications & Requirements

Familiarity with pre-service checklists for front-of-house operations

Experience with oversight of cleanliness, sanitation, food quality, and service standards

Strong communication skills to address guest needs and escalate issues appropriately

Hands-on supervisory or leadership experience

Ability to foster cooperation and teamwork in a busy environment

Willingness to work in various capacities as assigned by management

Ability to open and close the unit (as academic schedule permits)

Flexible schedule with availability for opening, closing, and high-volume shifts

Work Environment
Retail Student Managers work indoors and outdoors in foodservice settings that require standing, walking, lifting (up to 30 lbs.), and working in fast-paced conditions. A uniform shirt and IC hat will be provided and required for each shift.

Why Join Us?

Gain valuable leadership and management experience

Free shift meals

Flexible hours that work around your class schedule

On-the-job training and professional development

Fun, supportive, and student-centered work environment

Opportunities for advancement within Dining Services

Hiring Manager: Aneesa Williams

Hiring Rate: $15.80

About Us

Ithaca College's student employment program offers meaningful experiential learning opportunities that develop transferable skills sought by employers across various industries. These positions allow students to apply classroom knowledge in real-world professional settings, fostering both personal and professional growth.

Ithaca College is committed to building a diverse academic community and encourages members of underrepresented groups to apply. Experience that contributes to the diversity of the college is appreciated.

It is advised that applicants apply attaching both a resume and cover letter. Application screening will begin immediately. For assistance with the application process, contact Student Employment at StudentEmployment@ithaca.edu.

For more information about student employment or specific job inquiries, visit our website or contact the hiring manager listed on the job posting.

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