Cafe Shift Lead

Hi there!

We’re looking for dependable, motivated people to join our team as Shift Leads across various South LA Cafe locations.

We’re looking for people who take pride in their work, are reliable and committed to their team, and are interested in growing their skills in the cafe business. We invest heavily in training and development and are looking for team members who want to commit to the role for at least one year.

Previous barista or food and beverage experience is strongly preferred. Candidates without barista experience may be required to complete our barista training and demonstrate proficiency before fully stepping into the Shift Lead role. Most team members are able to complete this process within their first 90 days.

At South LA Cafe, we believe in helping people grow professionally and develop skills they can carry with them throughout their careers.

Our general requirements to be a Shift Lead at South LA Cafe are:

• Consistent and reliable week-to-week availability
• Ability to work at different South LA Cafe locations when needed for coverage, training, or business needs
• Ability to stand for extended periods, lift and carry up to 25 lbs., work efficiently in a fast-paced environment, and bend, reach, and perform repetitive motions
• At least one year of work experience demonstrating reliability and responsibility, preferably in a food or beverage environment

The job description is below. Please read carefully to make sure you feel it's the right fit for you!

ABOUT THE ROLE
The Shift Lead is responsible for guiding the team and overseeing day-to-day execution during each shift while actively working alongside the team in service. Shift Leads provide in-the-moment direction and coaching during their shifts but work in partnership with the Store Lead on larger performance, scheduling, disciplinary, and personnel matters.

This role is rooted in the SLAC Standard of Excellence, which guides everything we do. Shift Leads are responsible for upholding the standard Metrics of Success given to all employees upon hire in the following areas:

• Hospitality – making every guest feel welcomed, seen, and cared for
• Food & Drink Quality – consistently serving products we are proud of
• Teamwork – building supportive, professional, and accountable store teams
• Business Practices – running stores efficiently, safely, and profitably

Shift Leads are responsible for organizing and guiding the team throughout the shift, while also keeping high standards as a team member. This includes the following:

SHIFT ORGANIZATION
Ensure service runs smoothly and operations are organized

• Setting up and managing the communication and flow for the shift
• Managing breaks for all team members so they are taken on time and the floor remains properly staffed
• Ensuring proper deployment, meaning each team member is in the right position and focused on the tasks needed in that moment
• Ensuring opening, closing, and shift checklists are completed properly

MANAGERIAL TASKS
Supporting the Store Lead in managing the business

• Following all cash handling procedures, including safe cash management and accurate register practices
• Completing inventory checks when assigned and report any low stock or discrepancies
• Maintaining store safety oversight, staying aware of the environment, responding appropriately to safety concerns or incidents, and completing incident reports when appropriate, ensuring proper documentation of safety issues.
• Documenting attendance, noting when team members arrive late and informing store leadership
• Being responsible for store keys, including properly unlocking the store at the beginning of the day and securing the store by locking all doors at closing
• Communicating operational issues, staffing needs, or customer concerns to store leadership

TEAM LEADERSHIP
Supporting the Store Lead in guiding the team

• Leading by example in hospitality, professionalism, quality, and work ethic
• Coaching Team Members on hospitality, food and drink quality, recipes, procedures, and service standards by providing timely, respectful, in-the-moment feedback.
• Maintaining a positive, respectful team environment
• Ensuring the team stays focused, organized, and working together effectively