Cafe Matcha II FT Shift Lead

About Cafe Matcha

Cafe Matcha is Alfred’s matcha-focused cafe concept, bringing the same commitment to hospitality and quality through a fresh lens. Inspired by the nostalgic charm of retro diners and paired with a modern approach to matcha sourcing, preparation, and drink craftsmanship, Cafe Matcha is designed to make matcha approachable, elevated, and fun.

Job title: Full-Time Shift Lead

Location: Cafe Matcha II / West Hollywood
Reports to: Cafe Manager
FLSA Status: Non-exempt
Wage: $22.00/hr + tips ($24.50 - $28.50/hr approximately)

What You'll do

• Customer Service & Hospitality
• Lead by example in delivering exceptional hospitality and upholding Alfred service standards at all times.
• Provide confident, solutions-oriented leadership during shifts to ensure smooth and efficient cafe operations.
• Create a welcoming environment for guests while serving as a role model for customer engagement and professionalism.
• Address guest questions, concerns, and escalated situations thoughtfully and in alignment with Alfred Hospitality standards.
• Maintain a strong understanding of all cafe offerings, including beverages, food items, and service standards, while supporting team knowledge and development.

• Team Leadership & Development
• Foster a collaborative, team-oriented culture built on accountability, communication, and recognition.
• Support onboarding and training efforts through coaching, feedback, and reinforcement of operational standards.
• Develop barista product knowledge, including coffee and tea origins, flavor profiles, and preparation techniques.
• Build strong relationships with team members by understanding individual motivations, strengths, and opportunities for growth.
• Assist management with staffing support, floor coverage adjustments, and shift flow decisions.
• Delegate responsibilities effectively and ensure tasks are completed accurately and efficiently.
• Support performance accountability and policy adherence in partnership with management.

• Cafe Operations
• Oversee daily cafe operations to ensure quality, consistency, cleanliness, and operational excellence.
• Maintain an organized, stocked, and sanitary cafe environment throughout opening, mid, and closing shifts.
• Ensure all food and beverage items are prepared according to Alfred standards for quality, presentation, and timeliness.
• Support inventory management, product organization, and receiving deliveries.
• Manage register operations, cash handling procedures, tip distribution, and employee timekeeping.
• Conduct daily temperature logs and ensure compliance with health, safety, sanitation, and HACCP standards.
• Utilize operational communication tools, including Slack, email, and Daily Cafe Logs, to maintain alignment across teams.
• Anticipate cafe and guest needs by proactively monitoring the floor and adjusting workflow as needed.

Workplace Standards & Compliance

• Promote a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment for both guests and employees.
• Complete and document incident reports for employee or guest injuries and communicate incidents to management promptly.
• Follow all company policies, procedures, and operational guidelines outlined in the Employee Handbook.
• Support additional responsibilities and operational needs as assigned.

Qualifications

• 1-3 years of cafe, coffee, or restaurant experience preferred, but not required.
• Passion for hospitality and creating exceptional guest experiences.
• Strong communication, leadership, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment while maintaining composure under pressure.
• Positive attitude, strong work ethic, and willingness to learn and grow.
• Flexibility to attend occasional trainings or team meetings outside of regularly scheduled shifts.
• Maintain reliable attendance and consistent availability, including a minimum commitment of three shifts per week.
• Full-time employees must maintain an average of 30 hours per week to retain full-time status.

Physical Requirements

• 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 cafe equipment while preparing beverages to company standards.

Benefits & Perks

• 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
• Open Path Collective - Therapy Membership Reimbursement
• Employee referral bonuses
• Creative and collaborative team culture