GSMR Food & Beverage Assistant Manager

Job Title:

Food & Beverage Assistant Manager

Location:

Bryson City, NC

Directly responsible for the oversight of the daily operations of the Food & Beverage department to include onboard kitchen, First Class food service, Crown Class service, and Concessions. Plans, organizes, directs and controls Food & Beverage department’s activities to ensure the department’s goals and objectives are reached and consistent with established Company policy and procedure. Works as a team member of the Food & Beverage Department.

The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad offers a comprehensive Medical/Rx, dental and vision package with company-funded H.S.A. (for qualified employees), Parental Leave, Life/AD&D Insurance, Long/Short Term Disability coverage, Tuition Reimbursement, Train passes, a 401K with company-match and a generous PTO plan. Southern Highlands Attraction pass and Pass Exchange program for complimentary admission to area attractions.

• Responsible for the daily operations of the Food & Beverage department.
• Duties include inventory, purchasing of supplies and cost control.
• Ensure sales objectives are met within the operating budget.
• Control back orders, shortages and out of stock situations.
• Plan, organize, direct, and control all Food & Beverage department activities to reach goals consistent with Company policy and procedure.
• Oversee day‑to‑day activities and scheduling, ensuring all positions are staffed adequately while managing labor.
• Manage daily deposits, balance drawers, and correct operation of the POS system.
• Monitor and document personnel actions requiring promotion, lay‑off, termination, coaching, or other disciplinary action.
• Work closely with the Special Events Manager to coordinate, plan, and execute all aspects of food service for special events to the highest standards.
• Participate in recruiting, hiring and training of Food & Beverage personnel.
• Direct/oversee any special projects requested by Food & Beverage Manager and/or AHR/GSMR senior management.
• Oversee and ensure compliance with GSMR policy, procedures, and safety program including Safety Rules, Operating Rules, and participation in ongoing safety training/regular weekly manager meetings.
• Initiate and complete required paperwork and record‑keeping in a timely manner, providing accurate reports to accounting, payroll, HR, Food & Beverage Manager, and senior management as requested.
• Conduct formal and informal staff evaluations as requested while providing performance feedback on a consistent/continual basis.

Work on and off the train in varied terrain in all weather during both daylight and dark hours. Requires good balance/equilibrium: walking on moving trains, graveled, uneven, and/or sloped surfaces that may be wet/slippery while carrying supplies. Utilize and operate general office equipment, Square POS system, and various kitchen equipment including but not limited to Wi‑Fi devices, golf cart, PA system, cash register, Word, Excel, Email, meat slicer, two‑way radio, and printer/copier/scanner.

Work schedule varies throughout the year dictated by train schedule and department needs. Works directly with the public. Flexible work schedule including nights, weekends, and holidays.

• Minimum of 2 years of experience in the field or related area with supervisory experience preferred.
• High School Diploma or equivalent.
• Ability to communicate effectively in both written and spoken English, possessing good leadership and interpersonal skills with proven ability to supervise people.
• Serv Safe Manager Certified or willingness to become certified within 6 months.
• Good balance/equilibrium when walking on trains.
• Organizational skills with ability to multi‑task while prioritizing workload with a practical, flexible, and innovative approach to work.
• Knowledge of food, preparation, and trends.
• Understanding of federal, state, and local food sanitation regulations.
• Knowledge of wine, liquor, and beer, with ability to tend bar and set margins.
• Understanding of the State of North Carolina Alcoholic Beverage Commission’s Responsible Alcohol Seller Program (RASP); current certification preferred.
• Accurate cash handling, credit card (PCI/security), and billing knowledge.
• Ability to pass pre‑employment DMV check, background check, and Work Steps physical evaluation.
• Ability to pull, push, or carry up to 50 lbs.
• Ability to communicate successfully with a variety of personalities and function effectively as a leader of a team.