Coffee Manager

Core Spaces; Knoxville (TN); On-site; USD 32,000 - 48,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive pay

Paid holidays

Parental leave after 90 days

Paid volunteer time off

Health plan options

401(k) + matching

Job summary

Core Spaces is seeking a Coffee Shop Manager for New Here Coffee located inside our student housing communities. You will lead the student barista team, manage daily operations, mentor staff, oversee scheduling, control inventory, and ensure high-energy guest experiences.

You'll drive performance, ensure safety and policy compliance, and collaborate with property management and F&B leadership. Travel may be required; strong focus on hospitality and inclusivity is essential.

Qualifications

• 1–2 years of experience in coffee, food & beverage, or hospitality leadership.
• Strong organizational and communication skills.
• Experience in scheduling, training, and inventory management.
• Ability to lift 25+ lbs and stand for extended periods.

Responsibilities

• Recruit, train, and mentor a high-performing team of student baristas to foster confidence and skill development.
• Create weekly schedules that balance team availability and operational needs.
• Oversee drink preparation and customer service to ensure quality, speed, and consistency in every order.
• Manage inventory and supply ordering to keep the café stocked without overages.
• Own opening and closing duties, including cash handling and shift changes.

Skills

Team leadership

Scheduling

Inventory management

Communication

Tools

Point of sale systems

Job description

Who We Are

Core Spaces (Core) is more than a real estate company, it’s a people company. Where building relationships is just as important as building properties. From researchers and architects to designers and operators, Core is made up of risk takers and dreamers who are on a mission to invent the future of living. Our six cultural values guide us every day and we strive to live them in everything we do: PUSH (Invent Better Places to Live), GRIT (We Got This), LIFT (Help Each Other Win), SHINE (Bring Your Full Self), UPHOLD (Never Break Trust), GROW (Always Get Better). Everything Core does stems from this culture of collaboration and innovation, and the drive to constantly improve the resident experience. This unique approach has led to creating spaces and services that are redefining the way people live.

What We Do

At New Here Coffee, we fuel campus energy, connection, and culture—one cup at a time. Located inside Core Spaces’ student housing communities, New Here Coffee is a favorite stop for residents, classmates, and caffeine seekers alike. We pride ourselves on quality drinks, a welcoming atmosphere, and a vibrant community feel that enhances the student living experience. Whether students are rushing between classes, looking for a quiet study break, or hanging out with friends, New Here Coffee is their on-campus destination for great coffee and great vibes.

Benefits That Matter

• A culture that provides you with a sense of belonging
• Competitive pay that values your contributions
• Incentives designed to reward your achievements
• Paid flexible PTO to disconnect or celebrate life milestones
• Paid 14+ holidays, including your birthday, to disconnect and celebrate
• Paid Parental Leave that begins after 90 days
• Paid volunteer time off to give back to your community
• Monthly workshop weeks; fewer meetings & more collaboration
• Robust health plan options that begin within at least 30 days of your employment
• Monthly phone reimbursement
• Wellness allowance and perks, including a yearly subscription to a meditation app
• An environment that provides you a voice to share your perspectives
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for access to confidential support services
• Company retirement options including 401(k) + matching & Roth account option

Position Overview

As Coffee Shop Manager, you’ll be the leader of the crew, the keeper of the vibe, and the one making sure every cup and every shift runs smoothly. You'll oversee daily operations, mentor the team, manage scheduling, control inventory, drive performance, and create an environment that energizes both employees and guests.

What You Will Do

• Recruit, train, and mentor a high-performing team of student baristas to foster confidence, accountability, and skill development
• Create weekly schedules that balance team availability and operational needs to keep service efficient and consistent
• Oversee drink preparation and customer service to ensure quality, speed, and consistency in every order
• Manage inventory and supply ordering to keep the café stocked without overages
• Own opening and closing duties, including cash handling and shift changeovers, to ensure operational continuity
• Track sales and performance metrics to inform business decisions and report back to property management or F&B leadership
• Lead from the floor during peak hours to support your team and keep energy high
• Maintain equipment and communicate service needs to avoid downtime
• Cultivate a positive, inclusive, and engaging store culture where employees and customers alike feel welcome
• Ensure compliance with food safety, sanitation, and Core Spaces policies
• Occasional travel may be necessary as needed
• Perform all other duties and tasks as assigned by management
• Must be able to complete all physical requirements of this role with or without a reasonable accommodation

Ideally, You’ll Have

• 1–2 years of experience in coffee, food & beverage, or hospitality leadership
• Strong organizational and communication skills
• Experience in scheduling, training, and inventory management
• Ability to lift 25+ lbs and stand for extended periods

You’ll crush it if you have experience with

• College cafés, student housing, or startup-style coffee shops
• Leading high-energy teams in customer-facing environments Event planning or engagement in a community-driven setting

Organizational Structure

Reports to: National Beverage Director

Direct Reports: Baristas

Disclaimer

Please note that job responsibilities, reporting lines, and duties outlined in this job description are subject to change to meet the evolving needs of the organization.

As an Equal Opportunity Employer, Core Spaces celebrates diversity and is committed to creating an equitable and inclusive environment, which creates a sense of belonging for all employees. We do not discriminate and believe every individual should be proud of who they are and the community they represent.

Compensation Disclosure

The compensation range listed reflects the base salary or hourly rate that we reasonably and in good faith expect to offer for this role at the time of posting. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as education, experience, skills, certifications, seniority, geographic location, and business needs.

This role may be eligible for additional forms of compensation, including bonuses, commissions, stipends, or non-cash incentives, depending on position and performance. Benefits may include health insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, and other role-based offerings, subject to eligibility requirements.

All compensation components are subject to change based on business needs or market conditions.