Shared-use Kitchen Manager

About the role

The Arkansas Food Innovation Center at the Market Center of the Ozarks (AFIC@MCO) seeks a dynamic, entrepreneurial manager to oversee the daily operations of its shared-use commercial kitchen. This role supports a growing ecosystem of local food entrepreneurs and farmers by providing a state‑of‑the‑art processing environment.

Key responsibilities

• Lead day‑to‑day operations of the shared‑use kitchen, including scheduling and resource allocation.
• Provide technical assistance and guidance to food entrepreneurs using the facility.
• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and food‑safety regulations.
• Maintain kitchen equipment and oversee routine cleaning and sanitation procedures.
• Coordinate with the Arkansas Agricultural Experiment Station and Cooperative Extension Service staff to align kitchen services with research and extension goals.

Required profile

• Strong entrepreneurial mindset with experience in managing food‑service or kitchen environments.
• Ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders, including researchers, extension agents, and local producers.
• Commitment to fostering innovation in the local food sector.

Required skills

What we offer

• Opportunity to lead a cutting‑edge food processing facility within a university system.
• Engagement with a vibrant community of food entrepreneurs and researchers.
• Supportive work environment that promotes work‑life balance.