Cafe Matcha FT Shift Lead

About the role

The Barista is responsible for delivering exceptional hospitality while crafting high-quality beverages and maintaining an inviting cafe environment. This role is ideal for individuals passionate about customer experience, interested in matcha and tea culture, and thriving in fast-paced, team-oriented environments.

Responsibilities

• Lead each shift with positivity, urgency, and professionalism while setting the standard for hospitality and service.
• Deliver exceptional guest experiences and resolve customer concerns with confidence and care.
• Support and coach team members in real time, providing feedback, recognition, and guidance.
• Foster a collaborative, inclusive, and high-performing team environment.
• Share and promote knowledge of matcha, tea preparation, and Cafe Matcha products.
• Aid in onboarding and training new team members.
• Support ongoing development of baristas through coaching, product education, and operational reinforcement.
• Delegate responsibilities effectively and ensure tasks are completed to standard.
• Communicate staffing or operational needs to management as they arise.
• Oversee daily cafe operations to ensure quality, consistency, cleanliness, and efficiency.
• Prepare and serve beverages and food according to Cafe Matcha standards.
• Maintain a clean, organized, stocked, and guest-ready environment throughout each shift.
• Support inventory management, product receiving, and replenishment.
• Manage cash handling, opening and closing procedures, and daily operational checklists.
• Ensure food safety, sanitation, and health standards are consistently maintained.
• Utilize communication tools including Slack, email, and daily shift logs to support operational alignment.
• Follow all company procedures related to food safety, sanitation, hygiene, and cafe organization.
• Report safety hazards, incidents, or operational concerns to the Management.

Requirements

• 1-3 years of leadership experience in cafe, restaurant, or hospitality setting
• Passion for hospitality and creating positive customer experiences in a fast-paced, customer-facing environment
• Strong communication, interpersonal, and relationship-building skills
• Ability to thrive in a collaborative team setting while working efficiently under pressure
• Interest in matcha, tea, and specialty beverage culture
• Flexibility to attend quarterly team meetings, trainings, or company events that may occasionally take place outside of regular scheduled shifts
• Maintain reliable attendance and consistent availability, including a minimum commitment of three shifts per week
• Lift and carry up to 20 pounds without assistance
• Move quickly and efficiently throughout the cafe in a fast-paced environment
• Maintain strong close-range vision and attention to detail for drink preparation, cash handling, and order accuracy
• Bend, squat, reach, and perform cleaning, stocking, and other operational tasks as needed
• Remain on feet for extended periods throughout scheduled shifts
• Comfortably operate a POS system, cash register, or tablet device to accurately process customer orders and payments
• Demonstrate the hand dexterity and coordination needed to safely and efficiently operate espresso machines, steamers, grinders, and other café equipment while preparing beverages to company standards

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Valid California Driver's License

Skills

• Customer service
• Teamwork
• Time management
• Attention to detail
• Problem-solving
• Communication
• Leadership

Benefits

• Medical, Dental, & Vision coverage
• Paid time off accruals
• 401(k) eligibility after 12 months of employment
• Free shift drinks and employee discounts
• Growth and advancement opportunities
• Creative and collaborative team culture

Pay

$22.00/hr + tips ($24.50 - $28.50/hr approximately)

Schedule

Shift Lead positions require a minimum of three shifts per week, with flexibility to attend quarterly team meetings, trainings, or company events that may occasionally take place outside of regular scheduled shifts.