UNT Retail Dining Services, Food Service Specialist

Job Description

Job Description

Title: UNT Retail Dining Services, Food Service Specialist

Employee Classification: Food Service Specialist

Campus: University of North Texas

Division: UNT-Student Affairs

SubDivision-Department: UNT-Dining Service

Department: UNT-Dining-Retail-163710

Job Location: Denton

Salary: salary commensurate with experience

FTE: 1.000000

Retirement Eligibility: TRS eligible

About Us - Values Overview

Welcome to the University of North Texas System. The UNT System includes the University of North Texas in Denton and Frisco, the University of North Texas at Dallas and UNT Dallas College of Law, and University of North Texas Health Fort Worth. We are the only university system based exclusively in the robust Dallas-Fort Worth region. We are growing with the North Texas region, employing more than 14,000 employees, educating a record 49,000+ students across our system, and awarding nearly 12,000 degrees each year.

We are one team comprised of individuals who are committed to excellence, curiosity and innovation. We are transforming lives and creating economic opportunity through education. We champion a people-first values-based culture where We Care about each other and those we serve. We believe that we are Better Together because we foster an environment of respect, belonging, and access for all. We demonstrate Courageous Integrity through setting exceptional standards and acting in the best interest of our communities. We are encouraged to Be Curious about opportunities for learning, creating, discovering, and innovating, and are encouraged to learn from failure. Show Your Fire by joining our team and exhibiting your passion and pride in your work as part of our UNT System team.

Learn more about the UNT System and how we live our values at

Department Summary

It’s About the Food!
Why work for UNT Dining? Our employees explain. – YouTube

As the largest self-supported food service department in North Texas, UNT Dining Services is setting the standard for campus dining. With five Dining Halls, more than 20 retail locations, an upscale restaurant, a hydroponic garden, a central scratch bakery, and full-service catering, the department is led by a team of professionally trained chefs and hospitality experts. UNT is recognized as a national leader in university dining, known for its innovative, trendsetting approach and award-winning culinary talent.

UNT Dining Services is home to Mean Greens Café, the nation’s first 100% vegan collegiate dining hall, and Kitchen West, Texas’ first and only university dining hall certified Free From™ the Big 8 food allergens and gluten. In 2021, UNT introduced Eagle Landing, the university’s first standalone dining hall, inspired by urban food halls and featuring seven distinct restaurant concepts—all available for a single Meal Plan swipe.

Recognized for excellence, UNT was ranked No. 2 nationwide for best college food by Delish.com. The department is also the proud recipient of the prestigious Loyal E. Horton Award and the Vegan Recipe Award from the National Association of College and University Food Services. As a founding member of the Menus of Change University Research Collaborative, UNT plays an active role in pioneering research on plant-forward diets, food waste reduction, and consumer food choices, all while advancing the principles of healthy, sustainable menus.

Position Overview

The Food Service Specialist within UNT Retail Dining Services is responsible for delivering high-quality food and exceptional customer service in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment. This position supports daily operations by preparing and serving menu items, maintaining food safety and sanitation standards, and ensuring a clean and welcoming dining area for students, faculty, staff, and guests.

The Food Service Specialist will operate kitchen equipment, restock supplies, and assist with opening and closing duties while adhering to all company and university policies and procedures. This role requires strong attention to detail, the ability to work efficiently during peak service times, and a commitment to creating a positive dining experience.

Minimum Qualifications

General Work Experience

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Ability to follow oral and written instructions; ability to maintain records and complete forms accurately. Knowledge of the care and use of food service equipment and kitchen utensils. Knowledge of health hazards in food preparation and service and necessary precautionary measures. Knowledge of safety and security precautions appropriate to work performed.

Preferred Qualifications

We’re looking for an enthusiastic and dedicated individual to join our team at UNT Dining Services. The ideal candidate will have a strong desire to contribute to our vibrant campus community while demonstrating a strong work ethic, prior food service experience, and a genuine eagerness to learn, excel, and grow within our dynamic Retail Dining Services operations.

Required License/Registration/Certifications

 

Job Duties

• Supports food preparation and presentation, ensuring all items meet established quality and safety standards. Continuously monitor the freshness and quality of food to maintain consistent excellence. 
• Ensure cleanliness and organization in all food service areas, including kitchens, dining spaces, and storage areas. Follow proper food handling, storage, and disposal procedures to comply with health and safety regulations. 
• Deliver outstanding customer service by warmly greeting and assisting customers, answering questions, and promptly addressing any concerns. Maintain a positive, professional demeanor in a fast-paced, customer-oriented environment. Adhere to all university policies, health codes, and safety standards at all times. 

Physical Requirements

Communicating with others to exchange information.
Repeating motions that may include the wrists, hands and/or fingers.
Sedentary work that primarily involves sitting/standing.

Environmental Hazards

No adverse environmental conditions expected.

Work Schedule

Hours Vary

Driving University Vehicle

No

Security Sensitive

This is a Security Sensitive Position.

Special Instructions

Applicants must submit a minimum of two professional references as part of their application. If needed, additional references can be added after the application has been submitted. 

Benefits

For information regarding our Benefits, click here.

EEO Statement

The University of North Texas System is firmly committed to equal opportunity and does not permit –and takes actions to prevent – discrimination, harassment (including sexual violence, domestic violence, dating violence and stalking), and retaliation on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, genetic information, or veteran status in its application, employment practices, and facilities; nor permits race, color, national origin, religion, age, disability, veteran status, or sex discrimination and harassment in its admissions processes, and educational programs and activities. UNT System Administration promptly investigates complaints of discrimination, harassment, and related retaliation and takes remedial action when appropriate. System Administration also takes actions to prevent retaliation against individuals who oppose any form of harassment or discriminatory practice, file a charge or report, or testify, assist, or participate in a related investigation or proceeding.