Lead Barista and Café Operations Manager

As the Lead Barista and Operations Manager, you will bridge the gap between our morning coffee culture and our evening taproom experience. You will oversee all daily coffee operations, manage a small team of baristas, and handle inventory and vendor ordering. Reporting directly to the General Manager, this role offers high autonomy, a collaborative environment, and unique opportunities for cross-training in the cidery taproom.

Key Responsibilities

Operations & Leadership

• Launch & Lead: Build workflows, opening/closing procedures, and service standards for the new coffee concept.
• Team Management: Recruit, train, motivate, and schedule a small team of passionate baristas.
• POS & Cash Handling: Manage daily financial transactions, drawer counts, and system management using Square POS.

Inventory & Quality Control

• Supply Chain: Monitor stock levels, manage vendor relationships, and place product orders independently.
• Quality Standards: Maintain dialing-in protocols, milk-texturing standards, and consistent menu execution.
• Safety & Sanitation: Enforce strict adherence to local food safety protocols, proper food handling, and cleanliness.

Customer Experience & Growth

• Hospitality: Create a welcoming, energetic atmosphere that converts first-time visitors into regulars.
• Revenue Generation: Support sales initiatives by strategically promoting new menu items and upselling.

Qualifications

• Experience: Minimum 2 years of professional barista experience in a specialty coffee environment.
• Leadership: Proven experience managing people or operations in a food service or retail setting.
• Technical Skill: Deep knowledge of espresso extraction, milk chemistry, and troubleshooting coffee equipment.
• Problem Solving: Ability to work independently and solve operational bottlenecks in real time.
• Communication: Excellent interpersonal skills to lead a team and engage effectively with taproom guests.
• Physical Demands: Ability to stand, move, and reach for extended periods, and comfortably lift up to 60 lbs.

Pay: $45,000.00 - $55,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Employee discount
• Flexible schedule
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Paid training

Work Location: In person