Shift Lead - Leadership Team Member

Fairgrounds Coffee and Tea; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 20,457 - 29,136; Full time

Job summary

Fairgrounds Coffee and Tea in Chicago is seeking a Shift Leader. In this role, you will lead by example, ensuring exceptional guest experiences and smooth daily operations.

You will manage team performance, oversee inventory processes, and drive team development to create a high-performing work environment. A strong leadership presence and passion for coffee and hospitality are essential.

Join our team and help create memorable experiences while fostering a culture of excellence.

Qualifications

• Previous leadership experience in coffee, food service, retail, or hospitality preferred.
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to positively influence and develop others.
• Excellent communication and organizational skills.
• Ability to multitask and thrive in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities

• Lead daily floor operations to ensure smooth service and guest experience.
• Coach, mentor, and motivate team members for a collaborative work environment.
• Maintain accurate inventory levels and oversee opening and closing procedures.

Skills

Leadership

Customer Service

Inventory Management

Communication

Organizational Skills

Job description

Fairgrounds Coffee & Tea Shift Leader

Pay: $18.00 per hour + Tips ($5.00 - $10.00/hr)

Position Overview

As a Fairgrounds Coffee & Tea Shift Leader, you will lead by example, creating exceptional guest experiences while ensuring smooth daily operations. You will serve as the leader on duty, overseeing floor management, inventory accuracy, order execution, and team performance. This role requires a strong leadership presence, the ability to positively influence others, and a commitment to operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Team Development

• Act as the leader on duty during every shift, maintaining a confident, professional, and impactful presence.
• Lead by example through outstanding customer service and adherence to Fairgrounds standards.
• Coach, mentor, and motivate team members to foster a collaborative and high‑performing work environment.
• Delegate responsibilities effectively and ensure team members understand daily priorities.
• Deploy the team strategically to maximize efficiency and deliver exceptional hospitality.
• Provide constructive feedback and partner with the General Manager & Assistant General Manager on team development opportunities.
• Be knowledgeable in all safety and emergency procedures and confidently lead during emergency situations.

Customer Experience & Floor Management

• Lead daily floor operations to ensure smooth service, efficient workflow, and an outstanding guest experience.
• Address customer questions, concerns, and feedback professionally and promptly.
• Assign shift roles and follow up on responsibilities throughout the day to maintain service standards.
• Maintain a clean, welcoming, and organized café environment.

Operations & Inventory Management

• Oversee opening and closing procedures while ensuring compliance with company policies.
• Maintain accurate inventory levels through routine counts, organization, and inventory corrections.
• Develop strong order knowledge to support inventory planning, product availability, and efficient ordering processes.
• Monitor inventory of coffee, tea, food, and supplies to minimize shortages, waste, and product loss.
• Ensure proper rotation, storage, and handling of all products.
• Delegate equipment cleaning and preventative maintenance for espresso machines, grinders, taps, ovens, and other equipment to maximize performance and reduce downtime.
• Maintain high standards for beverage quality, food preparation, presentation, and consistency.

Training & Development

• Train new team members on Fairgrounds coffee, tea, food offerings, preparation techniques, and hospitality standards.
• Provide ongoing coaching to strengthen product knowledge, operational efficiency, and customer service skills.Stay informed on coffee, tea, and hospitality trends to continuously improve team performance.

Quality & Safety

• Ensure all beverages and food consistently meet Fairgrounds quality standards.
• Monitor equipment performance and coordinate maintenance when necessary.
• Uphold all food safety, sanitation, and cleanliness standards.
• Maintain compliance with company policies and operational procedures.

Qualifications

• Previous leadership experience in coffee, food service, retail, or hospitality preferred.
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to positively influence, motivate, and develop others.
• Experience with inventory management, inventory corrections, and order knowledge.
• Excellent floor management, communication, and organizational skills.
• Ability to multitask, prioritize, and thrive in a fast‑paced environment.
• Passion for coffee, tea, hospitality, and delivering exceptional guest experiences.

Compensation

$18.00 per hour

If you're passionate about coffee, hospitality, and leading a team with confidence and integrity, we'd love to meet you. Join Fairgrounds Coffee & Tea and help create memorable experiences for every guest while building a culture of excellence.