Risevoic
Airline Lounges Food Operations Manager
Company : Sodexo
Location : Seattle, WA, 98158
Job Type : Full Time
Date Posted : 2 January 2026
Role Overview
Sodexo's Airline Lounge Segment has an exciting opportunity for a Operations Manager to join the elite team of professionals who will operate the United Club Lounge, at SeaTac International Airport in Seattle, WA. We are seeking a talented individual who will commit to the challenges of creating and delivering a culinary-driven, upscale experience within a thoughtfully designed travel oasis. The ideal manager candidate will have eclectic menu knowledge and upscale a la carte experience. This is a hands-on manager role requiring previous experience managing upscale food production.
What You'll Do
The successful candidate will:
- have oversight of daily food operations and deliver a high-quality product;
- achieve company and client financial targets and goals;
- develop and maintain client and customer relationships;
- motivate, coach, mentor and develop frontline (hourly) staff; and/or
- ensure Sodexo standards are met to include compliance with company food and physical safety programs.
- Fully versed in Profit and Loss, inventory and fiscal responsibilities of operating a stand alone business.
What We Offer
Compensation is fair and equitable, partially determined by a candidate's education level or years of relevant experience. Salary offers are based on a candidate's specific criteria, like experience, skills, education, and training. Sodexo offers a comprehensive benefits package that may include:
- Medical, Dental, Vision Care and Wellness Programs
- 401(k) Plan with Matching Contributions
- Paid Time Off and Company Holidays
- Career Growth Opportunities and Tuition Reimbursement
More extensive information is provided to new employees upon hire.
What You Bring
Is this opportunity right for you? We are looking for candidates who:
- have a work history demonstrating strong leadership skills and the ability to work collaboratively with all levels of the organization;
- 2-3 years experience at the Ops Mgr or AGM level with a recognized concept or company;
- possess the ability to manage multiple priorities, demonstrate professional communication skills, and exhibit a passion for a high-level of customer service;
- exhibit flexibility to take on additional responsibilities as needed; and/or
- demonstrate working knowledge of automated food inventory, ordering, production and management systems as well as menu graphics programs;
- has experience in financials, preparation and oversight.
Who We Are
At Sodexo, our purpose is to create a better everyday for everyone and build a better life for all. We believe in improving the quality of life for those we serve and contributing to the economic, social, and environmental progress in the communities where we operate. Sodexo partners with clients to provide a truly memorable experience for both customers and employees alike. We do this by providing food service, catering, facilities management, and other integrated solutions worldwide.
Our company values you for you; you will be treated fairly and with respect, and you can be yourself. You will have your ideas count and your opinions heard because we can be a stronger team when you’re happy at work. This is why we embrace diversity and inclusion as core values, fostering an environment where all employees are valued and respected. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to individuals regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, gender identity, pregnancy, disability, sexual orientation, military status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. If you need assistance with the application process, please complete this form.
Qualifications & Requirements
Minimum Education Requirement - Associate's Degree or equivalent experienceMinimum Management Experience - 2 years Minimum Functional Experience – 1 year work experience in food or culinary services including restaurants, fast food, vending, catering services, institutional services, mall food courts, etc.
Seattle, WA
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Frequently asked questions
Running food operations in an airline lounge demands balancing upscale culinary service with swift turnaround times suited for travelers. Unlike traditional restaurants, it involves strict compliance with airline and airport protocols, managing diverse menus, and delivering a premium experience in a compact, high-traffic environment.
Effective leadership in this role requires adaptability to fast-paced airport settings, strong coaching skills for frontline staff, and the ability to foster teamwork among diverse teams. Excellent communication and multitasking are vital to maintain high food quality standards while addressing operational challenges unique to Seattle’s busy international airport.
While formal culinary certifications add value, hands-on experience in upscale a la carte food production and knowledge of automated inventory systems are highly prized. Familiarity with food safety certifications recognized in Washington State can further boost a candidate’s competitiveness in this specialized hospitality management position.
Sodexo fosters inclusivity and values diverse perspectives, which encourages managers to lead with empathy and respect. The company’s commitment to employee growth means managers at the United Club Lounge can expect support for professional development and a workplace culture that prioritizes well-being alongside operational excellence.
Sodexo’s integrated service approach and focus on quality elevate this role beyond typical lounge management. Managers benefit from comprehensive training, exposure to upscale culinary concepts, and involvement in community-oriented initiatives, distinguishing this career path within Seattle’s competitive airport hospitality sector.
In Seattle, salaries for this role generally range from $65,000 to $85,000 annually, influenced by experience and culinary expertise. Sodexo’s compensation packages often include benefits like 401(k) matching and paid time off, enhancing the overall value of employment beyond base pay.
Seattle’s airport hospitality market is competitive but growing, with demand for managers skilled in upscale food operations rising. Candidates with specialized experience in airline lounge environments and strong leadership capabilities often have an advantage due to the increasing traveler volume and emphasis on premium guest experiences.
Managers face operational hurdles such as coordinating deliveries under tight security regulations, adapting menus to fluctuating passenger numbers, and ensuring compliance with airport health standards. Effective inventory control and staff scheduling are critical to maintaining seamless service during peak travel periods.
Sodexo equips managers with tools to oversee profit and loss statements, inventory management software, and budget planning resources. This financial acumen is essential for balancing cost efficiency with delivering a high-quality culinary experience in a standalone airport lounge setting.
Sodexo offers pathways into broader hospitality operations, regional management, or specialized culinary leadership roles. Through tuition reimbursement and internal promotions, motivated managers in Seattle can expand their skill sets and advance within the global hospitality services network.