Food Service Manager in Missouri Career Overview

As a Food Service Manager, you hold a vital position within the food service industry, ensuring that operations run smoothly and efficiently. Your responsibilities encompass a wide range of functions that contribute to the success of a dining establishment, whether it be a restaurant, cafeteria, or catering service.

Key aspects of your role include:

  • Operational Oversight: You are in charge of managing day-to-day operations, which involves coordinating staff activities, overseeing food preparation, and ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations.

  • Staff Management: Leadership is a significant part of your job. You are responsible for training, scheduling, and evaluating staff members to maintain a high standard of service.

  • Budgeting and Cost Control: You manage financial aspects, including budgeting, inventory management, and cost control measures to maximize profitability while maintaining quality.

  • Customer Satisfaction: Ensuring that customers have a positive dining experience is a priority. You handle customer feedback, resolve complaints, and implement strategies to enhance service quality.

  • Menu Planning and Development: You often collaborate with chefs to design menus that not only appeal to customers but also align with seasonal trends and dietary preferences.

  • Sustainability Practices: In an evolving industry, you may also focus on implementing sustainable practices within the food service operations, such as reducing waste and sourcing local ingredients.

Your ability to adapt to changing environments, manage diverse teams, and respond to customer needs directly influences the establishment's reputation and success in the competitive food service landscape.

Food Service Manager Salary in Missouri

Annual Median: $57,720
Hourly Median: $27.75

Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.

Required Education To Become a Food Service Manager in Missouri

To become a Food Service Manager in Missouri, specific educational qualifications and training pathways are essential. Consider pursuing one of the following degree programs:

  • Restaurant, Culinary, and Catering Management: This program equips you with the knowledge of food preparation, menu planning, and catering services, preparing you for various roles in the food industry.

  • Restaurant Food Services Management: This degree focuses on the operational aspects of managing a restaurant, including food safety, cost control, and human resources management.

  • Hospitality Administration and Management: Through this program, you will learn about managing hospitality-related businesses, emphasizing both food service operations and customer service principles.

  • Hospitality and Recreation Marketing Operations: This field of study covers marketing strategies specific to the hospitality sector, providing insights into managing food service in recreational settings.

  • Business Administration and Management: A degree in business administration provides a solid foundation in management principles, finance, and organizational behavior, which are crucial for effective food service management.

In addition to formal education, gaining practical experience through internships or entry-level positions in food service establishments can be highly beneficial.

Best Schools to become a Food Service Manager in Missouri 2024

#1Maricopa County

University of Phoenix-Arizona

Phoenix, AZ

In-State Tuition:$9,552
Out-of-State Tuition:$9,552
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:18%
Total Enrollment:88,891
#2Merrimack County

Southern New Hampshire University

Manchester, NH

In-State Tuition:$15,000
Out-of-State Tuition:$15,000
Admission Rate:96%
Graduation Rate:41%
Total Enrollment:164,091
#3Salt Lake County

Western Governors University

Salt Lake City, UT

In-State Tuition:$7,404
Out-of-State Tuition:$7,404
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:49%
Total Enrollment:156,935
#4El Paso County

Colorado Technical University-Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs, CO

In-State Tuition:$12,036
Out-of-State Tuition:$12,036
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:20%
Total Enrollment:24,808
#5Maricopa County

Grand Canyon University

Phoenix, AZ

In-State Tuition:$16,407
Out-of-State Tuition:$16,407
Admission Rate:78%
Graduation Rate:45%
Total Enrollment:101,816
#6Lynchburg City

Liberty University

Lynchburg, VA

In-State Tuition:$15,467
Out-of-State Tuition:$15,467
Admission Rate:99%
Graduation Rate:66%
Total Enrollment:96,709
Food Service Manager Job Description:
  • Plan and conduct food service or nutritional programs to assist in the promotion of health and control of disease.
  • May supervise activities of a department providing quantity food services, counsel individuals, or conduct nutritional research.

Food Service Manager Required Skills and Competencies in Missouri

  • Leadership Skills: You should possess strong leadership abilities to effectively manage and motivate a team. Your capacity to inspire and guide employees can directly impact workplace morale and productivity.

  • Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills are essential. You must clearly convey instructions, provide feedback, and facilitate open dialogue among team members and management.

  • Customer Service Orientation: A strong focus on customer service is critical. You must be able to understand and meet the needs of guests while ensuring their dining experience is positive and memorable.

  • Organizational Skills: You will need to manage multiple tasks and prioritize responsibilities efficiently. Strong organizational skills help maintain smooth operations and ensure that service standards are met consistently.

  • Problem-Solving Skills: Your ability to quickly address and resolve issues that arise in the kitchen or dining area is important. You should be adept at troubleshooting and making sound decisions under pressure.

  • Financial Acumen: Understanding budgeting, cost control, and profit margin calculations is necessary. You are expected to manage inventory, oversee purchasing, and ensure that financial goals are met.

  • Knowledge of Food Safety Standards: Familiarity with health regulations and food safety practices is essential. You need to ensure compliance with local health codes and maintain a safe environment for staff and customers.

  • Time Management Skills: You must efficiently manage your time and the time of your team to ensure peak operational performance, particularly during busy service periods.

  • Technical Skills: Proficiency in using various restaurant management software, point-of-sale systems, and other relevant technology is important for streamlining operations and enhancing service efficiency.

  • Team Building Skills: The ability to create a cohesive and productive team is vital. Encourage collaboration and foster a positive working environment to enhance employee retention and satisfaction.

Job Duties for Food Service Managers

  • Assess nutritional needs, diet restrictions, and current health plans to develop and implement dietary-care plans and provide nutritional counseling.

  • Counsel individuals and groups on basic rules of good nutrition, healthy eating habits, and nutrition monitoring to improve their quality of life.

  • Evaluate laboratory tests in preparing nutrition recommendations.

Technologies and Skills Used by Food Service Managers

Analytical or scientific software

  • Axxya Systems Nutritionist Pro
  • Monash University Low FODMAP Diet App

Desktop communications software

  • Skype

Spreadsheet software

  • Microsoft Excel

Basic Skills

  • Listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions
  • Reading work related information

Problem Solving

  • Noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it

Social

  • Looking for ways to help people
  • Understanding people's reactions

Job Market and Opportunities for Food Service Manager in Missouri

The job market for Food Service Managers in Missouri is currently robust, reflecting the ongoing demand for skilled professionals in the hospitality and food service sectors. As you consider opportunities in this field, here are key insights regarding demand, growth potential, and geographical hotspots in the state.

  • Demand for Food Service Managers:

    • The food service industry is experiencing a resurgence post-pandemic, leading to increased hiring in various establishments, including restaurants, hotels, catering companies, and institutional food services.
    • The growing trend of food delivery services and online ordering platforms further drives the need for effective management in food service operations.

  • Growth Potential:

    • Employment projections indicate steady growth for Food Service Managers, with opportunities expanding as both existing establishments seek to improve their efficiency and new businesses emerge.
    • As consumer preferences evolve towards diverse cuisine and sustainable practices, managers with knowledge in these areas will find themselves in high demand.
    • The projected growth rate for this profession aligns with increases seen in related industries, such as tourism and entertainment, which often rely on food service management.

  • Geographical Hotspots:

    • St. Louis: Known for its vibrant culinary scene, St. Louis has a variety of restaurants and hospitality venues offering abundant opportunities for Food Service Managers.
    • Kansas City: This urban area hosts numerous dining establishments and is seeing an uptick in new concepts, making it another prime location for career opportunities in food service management.
    • Columbia: Home to the University of Missouri, Columbia boasts a high demand for food service management roles in both on-campus dining and local restaurants catering to a diverse student population.
    • Springfield: With a growing population and a surge in tourism, Springfield is witnessing a rise in new food service establishments, creating further opportunities for management positions.

Exploring these market trends and geographical hubs can help you effectively target your job search and identify organizations aligned with your career aspirations in food service management in Missouri.

Top Related Careers to Food Service Manager 2024

Nutrition Program Coordinator
Dietary Consultant
Clinical Nutrition Specialist
Public Health Nutritionist

Additional Resources To Help You Become a Food Service Manager in Missouri

  • American Culinary Federation (ACF)
    The ACF offers resources for culinary professionals, including certification programs specifically for food service managers. They provide networking opportunities and industry publications.
    Visit the ACF

  • National Restaurant Association (NRA)
    This association provides industry news, research, training resources, and advocacy for restaurant operators. They offer various educational programs, including those tailored for food service management.
    Visit the NRA

  • Missouri Restaurant Association (MRA)
    The MRA serves as a resource for those in the restaurant and food service industry specifically within Missouri, offering networking events, training seminars, and state-specific regulations.
    Visit the MRA

  • The Food and Beverage Management Handbook by John Wiley & Sons
    This book is a valuable resource for understanding the business aspects of managing food and beverage services, along with practical management tips. It can serve as a reference guide throughout your career.
    Find on Amazon

  • ServSafe Certification
    ServSafe offers food safety training and certification programs that are essential for food service managers to ensure compliance with health regulations.
    Visit ServSafe

  • Institute of Food Technologists (IFT)
    The IFT provides research articles, webinars, and other resources that cover food safety, production, and service trends that can be beneficial for food service managers.
    Visit the IFT

  • Culinary Institute of America (CIA)
    The CIA offers a range of programs, including food service management courses, and provides resources such as webinars and instructional videos to enhance your knowledge in the food service sector.
    Visit the CIA

  • Occupational Outlook Handbook - Food Service Managers
    The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics offers an overview of job outlook, wage information, and employment prospects for food service managers nationwide, including insights specific to Missouri.
    Visit the OOH

  • American Institute of Wine & Food (AIWF)
    This organization focuses on promoting food and wine education, which can enhance a food service manager's knowledge of culinary trends and consumer preferences.
    Visit the AIWF

  • LinkedIn Learning - Food Service Management Courses
    LinkedIn Learning provides access to various courses regarding food service management, operations, and leadership skills tailored for professionals in the industry.
    Visit LinkedIn Learning

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Food Service Manager in Missouri

  • What are the primary responsibilities of a Food Service Manager?
    As a Food Service Manager, you are responsible for overseeing daily operations in a food service establishment. This includes managing staff, ensuring food quality and safety, budgeting and financial management, inventory control, and maintaining compliance with health regulations.

  • What qualifications are required to become a Food Service Manager in Missouri?
    Typically, a high school diploma is required, while many positions prefer an associate degree or bachelor's degree in hospitality management or a related field. Additionally, food safety certifications and management experience are often essential.

  • Is prior work experience necessary to become a Food Service Manager?
    Yes, most employers look for candidates with previous experience in food service or restaurant management. Starting in entry-level positions, such as a server or kitchen staff, can help you gain valuable experience.

  • What skills are important for a successful Food Service Manager?
    Key skills include:

    • Leadership and team management
    • Effective communication
    • Problem-solving
    • Financial acumen
    • Knowledge of food safety regulations
    • Customer service orientation

  • What is the typical salary for a Food Service Manager in Missouri?
    Salaries can vary based on location, type of establishment, and level of experience. However, the average salary for a Food Service Manager in Missouri ranges from $45,000 to $65,000 per year.

  • Are there opportunities for advancement in this career?
    Yes, there are several opportunities for advancement. With experience and proven success, you can move up to higher management positions, such as district manager or regional director, or even open your own restaurant.

  • What are the working hours like for a Food Service Manager?
    Working hours often include evenings, weekends, and holidays, as food service establishments are typically open during these times. Flexibility in your schedule is important.

  • What are the best industries for Food Service Managers in Missouri?
    Food Service Managers can be found in various sectors, including:

    • Restaurants (fast food, casual dining, fine dining)
    • Hotels and resorts
    • Schools and universities
    • Healthcare facilities
    • Catering services

  • Do Food Service Managers need to be familiar with technology?
    Yes, familiarity with technology is increasingly important. This includes restaurant management software, point of sale systems, and inventory management tools to efficiently oversee operations.

  • What trends should aspiring Food Service Managers be aware of?
    Some current trends include:

    • Increased focus on sustainability and local sourcing
    • The rise of plant-based menus
    • Emphasis on food safety and hygiene protocols
    • The impact of delivery services and online ordering on operations

  • How can I gain experience if I want to become a Food Service Manager?
    To gain experience, consider:

    • Working in various roles within a restaurant
    • Participating in internships or apprenticeships in food service
    • Earning certifications in food safety and management
    • Networking with industry professionals

  • What role does customer service play in this position?
    Customer service is critical in the food service industry. As a Food Service Manager, you must ensure not only quality food but also a positive dining experience, addressing customer concerns and feedback promptly.

  • Is it necessary to have a food safety certification?
    While it may not be strictly required for all positions, having a food safety certification is highly recommended. This not only demonstrates your commitment to food safety standards but may also be required by law for managerial positions in many establishments.