Shift Lead - Opening Café Leader, Flexible Schedule

Fairgrounds Coffee and Tea; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 25,000 - 28,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Employee discounts

Flexible schedule

Free food & snacks

Training & development

Job summary

Fairgrounds Coffee & Tea is opening a new Bucktown cafe in Chicago and seeks a passionate Shift Lead to guide daily operations and deliver exceptional guest experiences. You will lead by example, train teammates, and support the opening team as they establish standards of quality and service.

The role requires hospitality experience, strong communication, and the ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment, including early mornings and weekends. Compensation is hourly with tip eligibility.

Qualifications

• Leadership experience in shift supervision or management.
• Strong, clear communication with teammates and customers.
• Ability to solve problems quickly and adapt to busy periods.
• Capacity to multitask and stay organized during peak times.
• Detail-oriented with emphasis on quality, cleanliness, and food safety.

Responsibilities

• Lead daily shifts by assigning tasks and coordinating team deployment.
• Provide hands-on training and coaching to teammates.
• Maintain smooth service flow and communicate feedback to café leadership.
• Foster hospitality by creating a warm guest experience and addressing questions or concerns.
• Oversee opening/closing procedures, restocking, and daily prep; ensure cleanliness and inventory.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Problem solving

Multitasking

Attention to detail

Team mindset

Job description

Fairgrounds Coffee & Tea is opening a new Bucktown cafe in Chicago and seeks a passionate Shift Lead to guide daily operations and deliver exceptional guest experiences. You will lead by example, train teammates, and support the opening team as they establish standards of quality and service.

The role requires hospitality experience, strong communication, and the ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment, including early mornings and weekends. Compensation is hourly with tip eligibility.