Cafe Lead

Verde Canyon Railroad; Clarkdale (AZ); On-site; USD 20,664 - 27,552; Full time

Job summary

Verde Canyon Railroad is seeking a Café Lead to support daily operations at the Copper Spike Café in Clarkdale, Arizona. In this hands-on leadership role, you'll foster a positive team environment and ensure exceptional guest experiences. The ideal candidate should have experience in the hospitality industry, previous leadership experience, and strong communication skills. The position is full-time/part-time and may require flexible scheduling, including weekends and holidays.

Qualifications

• Experience in café, restaurant, or hospitality environments.
• Previous leadership or supervisory experience preferred.
• Knowledge of food safety and sanitation practices.

Responsibilities

• Foster a positive, team-oriented environment.
• Ensure friendly, efficient, and consistent service.
• Assist with inventory and ordering.

Skills

Communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Team-oriented mindset

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

College or culinary degree preferred

Job description

Café Lead

Verde Canyon Railroad | Clarkdale, Arizona

Reports to: Café Manager, Copper Spike Café

Classification: Non-exempt | Hourly | Full-time / Part-time

About The Role

The Café Lead partners with the Café Managers to support daily operations, guide team members, and ensure every guest enjoys a welcoming and seamless depot experience. This is a hands‑on leadership role for someone who thrives in a fast‑paced, team‑focused environment.

Lead and Support the Team

• Foster a positive, team‑oriented environment
• Assist with training new team members
• Lead by example in guest service and professionalism
• Provide daily guidance and support to staff

Deliver Exceptional Guest Experiences

• Ensure friendly, efficient, and consistent service
• Maintain high standards for food and beverage quality and presentation
• Collaborate on menus and offerings
• Coordinate with reservations and operations teams

Support Daily Operations

• Assist with opening and closing procedures
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized workspace
• Help with scheduling and shift coordinationStep in during manager absences as needed

Contribute to Business Operations

• Assist with inventory and ordering
• Support catering, special events, and onboard service
• Adapt to changing needs and support the team as needed

Requirements

• Experience in café, restaurant, or hospitality environments
• High school diploma or equivalent
• College or culinary degree preferred
• Previous leadership or supervisory experience preferred
• Pass a drug screening and background check
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Positive, team‑focused mindset
• Ability to work in a fast‑paced, guest‑focused setting
• Knowledge of food safety and sanitation practices
• Ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 25 pounds
• Flexible schedule, including weekends and holidays