Meat Service Counter Manager
About the role
Festival Foods is a Wisconsin grocer committed to giving back to the communities it serves and providing guests with exceptional service and value, operating over 40 full-service supermarkets across the state. As the Meat Service Counter Manager, you'll be the go-to expert for fresh meat and seafood—blending hands-on food service with associate development. You’ll coach a team of sales associates to serve up specialty cuts and meal solutions with speed, safety, and a smile. From maintaining a clean, well-stocked counter to leading by example in customer service and team development, you’ll ensure a smooth, standout experience for every guest.
Responsibilities
- Coach, train, and support the Meat Service Counter team—setting clear expectations, coaching daily performance, and creating a culture of excellent guest service and accountability.
- Create and manage weekly schedules to ensure appropriate coverage across all shifts while balancing labor goals and individual availability.
- Work side‑by‑side with the team to package, label, and merchandise products in the service case—maintaining consistent quality, freshness, and visual appeal.
- Maintain clean, organized, and food‑safe workspaces by following daily standards for sanitation, restocking supplies, and ensuring all team members follow proper cleaning procedures.
- Monitor product rotation, case presentation, and temperature logs to ensure food safety and compliance with all company policies.
- Communicate with the Meat Department Manager regarding associate performance feedback, and overall department execution.
- Ensure proper inventory of packaging materials and counter supplies—replenishing as needed to keep operations running smoothly.
- Lead by example behind the counter and on the sales floor, modeling safe equipment use, high service standards, and teamwork during busy shifts.
- Perform other duties as needed to support the team.
- Honor commitments: regular, timely attendance in compliance with the work schedule, and adequate notice to find a replacement for occasional absences.
Requirements
- Ability to deal tactfully and effectively with customers and all personnel.
- Good oral and written communication skills and the ability to handle a diverse crew in a highly stressful environment.
- Complete understanding of all safety requirements and company safety policies; ability to apply on‑the‑job safety training to recognize and react to possible safety hazards.
- Proper training and knowledge of slicers, proper lifting techniques, trash compactor, baler.
- Knowledge of the retail food business, thorough knowledge of perishable department operations, merchandising skills, and ability to make timely and effective decisions.
- Must possess WI Certified Food Manager License (Festival to provide reimbursement).
Benefits
- Associate discount: 15% off grocery purchases for you and your immediate household.
- Weekly pay with premium pay: hourly associates paid weekly; part‑time store associates receive $1 premium per hour on Sundays and select holidays; hourly full‑time store associates receive time and a half on Sundays and select holidays.
- Two‑week advanced scheduling for better planning and balance.
- Vision insurance and two dental coverage options for part‑time and full‑time associates.
- Support programs: 3 weeks of paid parental leave, fitness reimbursement program, Employee Assistance Program (EAP), LEAPCare Care Coaches for confidential care related to hospital visitation, conflict resolution, stress management, marriage or divorce, family issues, depression or anxiety.
- Retirement savings: 401(k) plan with annual discretionary match.
Pay
Hourly associates are paid weekly. Part‑time store associates earn a $1 premium per hour on Sundays and select holidays. Hourly full‑time store associates receive time and a half on Sundays and select holidays.