Assistant Director of Dining Services

At Terwilliger Plaza, located in beautiful downtown Portland, we believe that encouraging a deeper sense of dedication and belonging is key to how we attract and retain our best people. By embracing our diverse experiences and views, we are better positioned to deliver results, create innovations that matter, and thrive in today’s changing world. Join us as we Live Forward and cultivate a phenomenal place where our team works and thrives.

Why Work Here?

• Medical, Dental & Vision
• 50% off Employee Discount in Dining and Deli
• 24/7 access to an onsite gym
• Onsite Salon
• Scholarship Opportunities
• Company Paid Monthly TriMet Pass
• Competitive Pay
• 401k Matching
• Tapcheck - Same day pay

Reporting to the Director of Dining Services, the Assistant Director of Dining Services oversees daily front-of-house operations in the Restaurant and Deli at Terwilliger Plaza. This leadership role supports both strategic planning and hands-on service, ensuring high standards in food quality, sanitation, staff development, and resident satisfaction. As a key partner in department leadership, the Assistant Director helps foster a collaborative, service-focused environment and consistently drives operational excellence.

 Salary: Starting at $65k, based on experience

Essential Job Functions: 

• Oversee daily restaurant and deli service operations, ensuring consistency in food quality, customer service, and cleanliness.
• Monitor resident and guest dining experiences; respond promptly and professionally to concerns.
• Conduct routine service audits and quality control checks, including temperature monitoring and presentation standards.
• Ensure proper functioning of equipment and coordinate service or repairs as needed.
• Supervise front-of-house and deli staff in collaboration with the Dining Room Supervisor, Deli Manager, and Leads.
• Assist with hiring, onboarding, training, scheduling, performance evaluations, and coaching.
• Promote a team-oriented culture centered on accountability, professionalism, and mutual respect.
• Conduct pre-shift meetings and facilitate ongoing in-service training to reinforce service standards.
• This position includes regular shifts working in the dining room alongside staff to support service delivery.
• Partner with the Executive Chef and Director of Dining Services to identify and implement improvements in dining programs and resident satisfaction.
• Maintain a presence in dining areas during service to engage with members and ensure service excellence.
• Provide support in payroll processing, staff scheduling, inventory, purchasing, and budget tracking.
• Maintain accurate documentation of staff training, attendance, and development.
• Assist with departmental reporting, including quarterly sanitation inspections and annual evaluations.
• Help plan and execute themed dinners, community-wide events, and catering functions.
• Lead or contribute to special projects and operational initiatives as assigned.

Education: 

• High school diploma or equivalent required; Bachelor’s degree in hospitality, food service management, or related field preferred.
• 3 years of management experience in food service, hospitality, or senior living.
• Experience with event planning, budgeting, and staff development preferred.

Knowledge / Mental / Skill Requirements: 

• Valid Food Handler’s Card and OLCC Permit required (or ability to obtain promptly).
• ServSafe Certification preferred.
• Strong knowledge of food safety standards and Front Of House service techniques.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and POS systems.
• Exceptional communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to prioritize in a fast-paced, guest-focused environment.
• Complete knowledge of operation and maintenance of equipment: cash register, food cooling and warming equipment, coffee and beverage machinery, commercial dishwasher

Terwilliger Plaza evaluates qualified candidates without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, veteran status and other protected characteristics. The job description is not meant to be an all-inclusive list of duties and responsibilities but provides a general overview of positions' job function in the company.