The Abstract Cafe Inventories Coordinator

Dalhousie Student Union; Halifax; On-site; CAD 30,000 - 60,000; Part time

Job summary

An established industry player in student services is seeking a motivated Inventories Coordinator for their vibrant café. This role involves managing stock, ensuring exceptional customer experiences, and supporting daily operations. If you have a passion for organization and leadership, and thrive in a fast-paced environment, this position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to a positive and inclusive work culture while gaining valuable experience. Join a team dedicated to enhancing student life and making a meaningful impact on the Dalhousie community.

Benefits

Opportunities for career growth

Employee discount on food and beverages

Positive and inclusive work environment

Ongoing training and professional development

Qualifications

• Proven track record of providing exceptional customer service.
• Strong leadership and supervisory skills to guide a team.

Responsibilities

• Assist in overseeing daily operations and inventory management.
• Set a high standard for customer service by engaging with patrons.

Skills

Customer Service

Leadership

Inventory Management

Problem Solving

Communication

Organizational Skills

Education

Student at Dalhousie University

Tools

Point-of-Sale (POS) Systems

Basic Computer Software

Job description

SUPERVISOR: Café and Bar Manager

HOURS OF WORK: 10-25hrs weekly September-April, Casual Hours in Late August

ABOUT

The Dalhousie Student Union (DSU) is an incorporated non-profit with the objectives of:

· acting as the official representative organization of Dalhousie students;

· serving as the medium of communication between Dalhousie students and the governing bodies of the University;

· encouraging Dalhousie students to have an awareness of their responsibilities in the local, provincial, national, and international community;

· providing services and programming that enhance student life in a financially, socially, and environmentally responsible manner.

With over 20,000 members, the DSU is here to make sure students get the most out of their experience at Dalhousie. The DSU advocates for student rights, builds community on campus through events, supports over 250 societies, and provides discount services!

OVERVIEW

The Abstract Café is seeking a motivated and experienced Inventories Coordinator to join our team and assist in the smooth and efficient operation of our campus café – the Abstract, leading orders and inventories for the DSU. A combination of licensed café and event space, the Abstract will serve the Dalhousie community in a multitude of manners and will be opening its doors to the public come September 2025. As the Inventories Coordinator, you will play a vital role in ensuring exceptional customer experiences by managing stock of the café and contributing to the overall success of the establishment. If you possess a strong background in organization, leadership, and a passion for delivering outstanding service, we encourage you to apply.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Beverage Preparation: Demonstrate knowledge in mixing making coffee, basic cocktails, pouring beer and non-alcoholic beverages. Ensure consistency in drink quality and presentation.
  

· Operational Excellence: Assist the Café and Bar Manager in overseeing daily operations, including opening and closing procedures, inventory management, and ensuring compliance with health, safety and alcohol regulations.

· Ordering Stock: Weekly assessments of outstanding inventory and ordering to upkeep a smooth transition and flow of product availability for the bar. Adhering to set alcohol ordering list. Coordinate mixes, milks, citrus, and ensure all other needed products are stocked in collaboration with Kitchen Supervisor.

• Inventory Management: Assist in monitoring stock levels, placing orders, and managing the inventory to minimize waste and ensure an uninterrupted supply of ingredients and beverages. Including weekly order requests and monthly inventory to the Café and Bar Manager. Collaboration with Kitchen Supervisor to co-count both front and back of house stocks on the first business day of every month.
  
• Systems Management: Address any issues with POS and Payment Terminal if relevant/present. Ensure that fridges, dishwasher, taps are running smoothly – and communicate a plan to resolve any problem with the Café and Bar Manager. Quality assurance checks monthly.
  
• Café Upkeep: Address cleaning and upkeep within the space, ensuring there are regular deep cleans of fridges and machinery, and maintaining healthy and safety standards in accordance with provincial law.
  

• Customer Service: Set a high standard for customer service by engaging with patrons, addressing their needs, and resolving any issues or concerns in a timely and professional manner.
  
• Problem Solving: Address and resolve operational challenges, customer complaints, and employee issues with professionalism and a focus on finding effective solutions.
  
• Promotions and Events: Assist the execution of promotional events and programming for the Abstract by ensuring there is appropriate and needed stock and equipment is running smoothly – specialty drink organization, training and preparation for unique events.
  
• Serving: Working as a floor supervisor and server during times of operation when scheduled.
  

QUALIFICATIONS

• Available to work shifts Monday- Friday, notably evenings.
• Previous experience in a service role, with a proven track record of providing exceptional customer service.
• Strong leadership and supervisory skills, with the ability to inspire and guide a team toward achieving common goals.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities to interact effectively with staff, customers, and management.
• Organizational skills to manage inventory, place orders, and maintain a well-organized front of house area.
• Familiarity with industry trends is a bonus.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment, remaining composed under pressure while maintaining attention to detail.
• Proficiency in using point-of-sale (POS) systems and basic computer software.
• Must meet legal requirements for serving alcohol in Canada (19+).
• Relevant certifications in responsible alcohol service and food safety are a plus, but training can be facilitated by DSU Cafe and Bar Manager.
• Demonstrated ability to motivate and direct others.
• Self-driven and initiative seeking.
• Neat, professional and good communication skills.
• You must be a student attending Dalhousie University to apply for this position.

BENEFITS

• Opportunities for career growth and advancement
• Employee discount on food and beverages
• Positive and inclusive work environment
• Ongoing training and professional development

If you are a dedicated, enthusiastic, and knowledgeable service professional seeking to work in a student-based environment, working to take the next step in your career, we invite you to apply for the Abstract Inventories Coordinator position.

The DSU is the largest employer of students on campus and aims to work around scholastic schedules. This position pays $17.54 per hour, with the opportunity for a bonus based on performance.

We thank all of our applicants for taking the time to apply. Only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.

The Dalhousie Student Union welcomes the contributions that individuals from traditionally marginalized communities, as outlined under the prohibited grounds for discrimination in the Nova Scotia Human Rights Act, bring to our organization. Marginalized communities include racialized people; Indigenous people; women; lesbian, bisexual, gay, transgender and queer people; and people with disabilities. We encourage applicants to self-identify in their cover letter or application if they are a member of a marginalized community.