Food Service Managers

Plan, direct, or coordinate activities of an organization or department that serves food and beverages.

SOC: 11-9051.00

Common Job Titles

Food Service DirectorFood Service ManagerFood and Beverage ManagerRestaurant Manager

What You'll Need to Succeed

AI-generated

Key competencies for this occupation at a glance

  • MindsetIntegrate customer service excellence with operational efficiency in high-volume food service environments while managing diverse stakeholder expectations.
  • KnowledgeCoordinate personnel schedules, inventory systems, and production workflows using point-of-sale and inventory management software to optimize resource allocation.
  • KnowledgeEvaluate food quality, safety compliance, and service standards through systematic monitoring of processes and surroundings in accordance with regulatory requirements.
  • MindsetBalance employee development needs with operational demands when training and coaching staff in food production, customer service, and safety protocols.
  • MindsetReconcile conflicts between staff members and customer complaints through active listening and negotiation to maintain team cohesion and service quality.
  • KnowledgeApply personnel management principles and labor law knowledge when hiring, scheduling, and directing staff to ensure adequate coverage and compliance.
  • Hands-onDemonstrate mastery of computerized point-of-sale systems and reservation software to manage transactions, track inventory, and coordinate customer flow efficiently.
  • KnowledgeOrganize daily operations, special events, and administrative tasks under time pressure while prioritizing food safety, customer satisfaction, and profitability.
  • KnowledgeAnalyze financial data, sales trends, and cost metrics using accounting software and spreadsheets to manage budgets and control expenses.
  • KnowledgeInterpret customer feedback, market trends, and sales data to inform menu development, pricing strategies, and promotional initiatives.
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics

Annual wage data for Food Service Managers (2024)

Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)

244,230

Wage Distribution by Percentile

MetricU.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less$42,380
10% of workers earn the following or more$105,420
Workers on average earn$72,370

+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)

Skills & Requirements

Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance

  • Customer and Personal Service4.6/5
  • Administration and Management4.4/5
  • English Language4.0/5
  • Personnel and Human Resources3.8/5
  • Production and Processing3.7/5
Tools & Technology

Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation

In-Demand Technology

Frequently requested by employers in job postings

FacebookGoogle DocsIntuit QuickBooksMicrosoft DynamicsMicrosoft ExcelMicrosoft Office softwareMicrosoft OutlookMicrosoft PowerPointMicrosoft ProjectMicrosoft Word

Technology Skills

Aestiva Employee Time ClockApache GroovyArmy Food Management Information SystemAurora FoodProChefDesk Chef's CalculatorsClubSoft Food & Beverage Point of SaleCulinary Software Services ChefTecDataTeam Lunch Express

Tools & Equipment

Computerized cash registersLaser printersNotebook computersPersonal computersPersonal digital assistants PDA