Lead Barista / Server

Monos; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 35,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a new café and listening lounge, Postcard, as a Lead Barista/Server. In this leadership role, you will guide a passionate team, create exceptional guest experiences, and thrive in a collaborative atmosphere. If you're excited about hospitality and the art of service, we’d love to meet you.

Benefits

Competitive hourly wage + pooled tips

Product perks and discounts through Monos

Opportunities for personal and professional development

Qualifications

• 2-3 years of experience in cafés or small restaurants.
• Strong leadership skills with a passion for mentoring.
• Excellent communication skills and a collaborative mindset.

Responsibilities

• Lead by example in delivering high-quality guest service.
• Supervise daily front-of-house operations.
• Support training and development of front-of-house staff.

Skills

Leadership

Customer Service

Collaboration

Job description

A unique third space, inspired by travel, music, and the art of living well

About Postcard

Postcard is a new café and listening lounge from Monos, a Canadian travel and lifestyle brand known for its premium luggage and travel essentials. Opening August 2025 in Chicago’s West Loop, Postcard is imagined as a modern third place—a cultural hub where hospitality, music, and design come together.Rooted in Monos’ philosophy of presence, beauty, and intentional living, Postcard is more than a café—it’s a space for those who value connection, creativity, and the art of living well.

Position Overview

As Lead Barista / Server at Postcard, you’ll take on a leadership role within a small, tight-knit team. Your primary responsibility will be to ensure the team is aligned and creating an exceptional guest experience. Beyond crafting high-quality drinks and serving food, you’ll guide the team through daily operations, assist with training, and support the management team.

This role is for someone who thrives in a collaborative, fast-paced environment and is passionate about creating exceptional guest experiences. If you’re ready to lead by example and make a meaningful impact at Postcard, we’d love to meet you.

What You’ll Do

• Lead by example in delivering warm, consistent, and high-quality guest service following brand standards and hospitality best practices.
• Supervise daily front-of-house operations, ensuring smooth service flow, adherence to food safety standards, and compliance with company procedures and local health regulations.

• Support the training, mentoring, and ongoing development of front-of-house staff; guide service standards, safety procedures, and company policies.

• Prepare and serve a variety of beverages, including coffee, milk teas, and non-alcoholic drinks with accuracy, consistency, and proper hygiene practices.

• Maintain cleanliness, sanitation, and organization of the guest service areas in accordance with FDA Food Code and local health department requirements.

• Coordinate with the kitchen and back-of-house team to ensure timely, accurate order fulfillment and seamless communication during service.

• Assist with the setup and execution of events, activations, and seasonal promotions in compliance with safety, permitting, and alcohol service regulations (if applicable).

• Create and maintain a welcoming, inclusive environment that supports team morale and aligns with anti-discrimination and anti-harassment policies.

• Address guest concerns professionally and in alignment with company values; escalate issues when necessary and document any incidents in accordance with workplace policy.

• Fulfill physical requirements of the role, including standing for extended periods, and participating in opening/closing procedures and light janitorial tasks as needed.

What We’re Looking For

• 2-3 years of experience in cafés or small independent restaurants

• Strong leadership skills with a passion for mentoring, inspiring, and developing a team

• A passion for creating memorable experiences for guests and a deep appreciation for music, design, and creative expression
• Excellent communication skills and a collaborative mindset

• Calm, collaborative attitude, especially during high-volume times

• Comfortable shifting between roles and stepping in where needed

• A strong sense of hospitality, grounded in care and attention to detail

• Flexibility to work mornings, evenings, weekends, and some holidays

• Ability to lift and carry up to 25 lbs

• ServSafe Alcohol (BASSET) Certification required

Why Join Us?

• Competitive hourly wage ($20.00) + pooled tips

• Product perks and discounts through Monos for you and your friends & family

• A chance to be part of a growing ecosystem with opportunities for personal and professional development

To Apply:

Complete the video interview using the link below:

https://hire.li/fmiaIKeNJLqOwDGCoKgn6