Title: 2027 Management Accelerator Program (Multiple Locations)
Philadelphia, PA, US, 19103
The Operations Associate is a key entry-level leadership role within Aramark’s Management Accelerator Program(MAP). The structured, cohort-based pathway is designed to develop the next generation of field operations leaders. This role is intended for recent graduates who are ready to lead people and manage operations from day one.
Operations Associates are placed in one of Aramark’s eleven Lines of Business, focusing on Food & Hospitality, Facilities, or Refreshments services at client sites across the United States. The role combines hands-on operational responsibility with structured leadership development, mentorship, and cohort-based learning. Participants are expected to demonstrate strong leadership potential and a commitment to growth within Aramark’s field operations organization.
MAP develops capable, experienced operations leaders prepared to grow into multi-unit and regional operations management.
The priority application deadline is October 23. Applications received after this deadline will be reviewed on a rolling basis.
Job Responsibilities
People Leadership
- Lead and supervise frontline team members on assigned shifts, including scheduling, coaching, and performance feedback.
- Foster an inclusive, safety-first work environment aligned with Aramark’s values and culture.
- Partner with leadership to recruit, onboard, and retain hourly employees.
- Act as a visible, engaged leader on the floor during service periods.
Operations Management
- Assist in the day-to-day operations of an assigned unit or client site, ensuring quality standards, compliance, and efficiency are consistently met.
- Learn and apply Aramark operating standards and client contractual requirements.
- Support inventory management, cost controls, and vendor coordination under the direction of the General or District Manager.
- Contribute to financial performance goals including labor management, food or supply cost, and client satisfaction metrics.
- Support the execution of special events, promotions, or service changes as directed.
Professional Development
- Actively participate in all MAP development programming, including virtual learning modules and the annual Leadership Summit at Aramark Headquarters in Philadelphia.
- Engage with an assigned mentor from Aramark’s Employee Resource Group (ERG) network.
- Complete milestone check-ins and development reviews.
- Build relationships within your MAP cohort and broader Aramark network as a foundation for long-term career growth.
Location and Industry Information
Location and industry preferences will be collected through our screening and interview process for selected qualified candidates. MAP opportunities are available across the country in:
- Colleges & universities
- Correctional facilities
- Cultural attractions
- Hospitals & healthcare facilities
- K-12 school districts
- National & state parks
- Stadiums & arenas
- Workplaces & business dining facilities
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree completed prior to program start (Hospitality, Operations Management, Culinary Arts, Food Service Management, Facilities Management, Business, or related fields preferred)
- Graduating between December 2026 and August 2027; program start dates may vary.
- Demonstarated leadership experience through internships, campus involvement, or prior work experience.
- Strong verbal, written, and professional communication skills.
- Willingness to work flexible schedules including evenings, weekends, and holidays as required by operations
- Must be eligible to work in the United States without employer sponsorship.
Compensation Information
COMPENSATION: The salary range for this position is $55,000 to $90,000. If both numbers are the same, that is the amount that Aramark expects to offer. This is Aramark’s good faith and reasonable estimate of the compensation for this position as of the time of posting.
BENEFITS: Aramark offers comprehensive benefit programs and services for eligible employees including medical, dental, vision, and work/life resources. Additional benefits may include retirement savings plans like 401(k) and paid days off such as parental leave and disability coverage. Benefits vary by location and are subject to any legal requirements or limitations, employee eligibility status, and where the employee lives and/or works. For more information about Aramark benefits, click here.
There is no predetermined application window for this position, the position will close once a qualified candidate is selected. Qualified applicants with arrest or conviction records will be considered for employment in accordance with applicable law, including, but not limited to, the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers, the California Fair Chance Act, and the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance to the extent that those laws apply to the opportunity.
About Aramark
Our Mission
Rooted in service and united by our purpose, we strive to do great things for each other, our partners, our communities, and our planet.
At Aramark, we believe that every employee should enjoy equal employment opportunity and be free to participate in all aspects of the company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, gender, pregnancy, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, military status, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by applicable law.
About Aramark
The people of Aramark proudly serve millions of guests every day through food and facilities in 15 countries around the world. Rooted in service and united by our purpose, we strive to do great things for each other, our partners, our communities, and our planet. We believe a career should develop your talents, fuel your passions, and empower your professional growth. So, no matter what you're pursuing - a new challenge, a sense of belonging, or just a great place to work - our focus is helping you reach your full potential. Learn more about working here at http://www.aramarkcareers.com or connect with us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
Nearest Major Market: Philadelphia