Our client, a beloved independent coffeehouse, is seeking an exceptional Lead Barista and Cafe Operations Manager to join their thriving, fully remote team. This unique role allows you to manage cafe operations, drive excellence in customer service and beverage preparation, and contribute to strategic initiatives from anywhere. While the role is remote, it requires a strong connection to the company's ethos and proactive management of remote operational elements and vendor relations. Occasional travel to our **Seattle, Washington** flagship location may be required for specific team events or strategic meetings.
You will be the cornerstone of our client's commitment to exceptional coffee experiences, leading by example through your passion for quality, customer engagement, and efficient cafe management. This position demands creativity, strong organizational skills, and a proactive approach to problem-solving in a dynamic, customer-focused environment.
Responsibilities:
Oversee daily cafe operations, ensuring a seamless and positive customer experience across all touchpoints, managed remotely. Lead, train, and mentor a team of baristas, fostering a culture of excellence, collaboration, and continuous learning. Develop and maintain beverage standards, ensuring consistent quality and creativity in all offerings. Manage inventory, ordering, and cost control for all cafe supplies, ensuring optimal stock levels and minimizing waste. Implement and enforce health, safety, and sanitation standards throughout the cafe operations. Develop and manage staff schedules, ensuring adequate coverage while optimizing labor costs. Handle customer inquiries, feedback, and resolve any issues promptly and professionally. Contribute to menu development and the introduction of new beverage offerings. Manage relationships with suppliers and vendors to ensure quality and timely delivery of goods. Analyze sales data and operational metrics to identify trends and opportunities for improvement. Drive customer loyalty programs and marketing initiatives, primarily through digital channels. Contribute to the overall strategic direction of the cafe, working closely with ownership remotely. Ensure all remote operational tools and systems are utilized effectively for team communication and task management.
Qualifications:
Proven experience as a barista, with at least 3 years in a leadership or management role within the food service or hospitality industry. Extensive knowledge of coffee preparation techniques, brewing methods, and specialty coffee. Demonstrated experience in inventory management, ordering, and cost control. Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills. Excellent customer service orientation and problem-solving abilities. Proficiency with cafe management software and point-of-sale (POS) systems. Ability to effectively manage and motivate a remote team. Highly organized, detail-oriented, and capable of multitasking in a fast-paced environment. Passion for coffee and a commitment to delivering high-quality products and experiences. Self-motivated and able to work independently with minimal supervision in a fully remote capacity. Availability for occasional travel to the **Seattle, Washington** area for key meetings or events.
This is a remarkable opportunity for a passionate coffee professional to lead and innovate within a dynamic, fully remote cafe environment.