Palette Café Manager

Flint Institute of Arts | Palette Café Manager

Full-time Employment

Title Palette Café Manager

Department Visitor Experience

Reports to Director of Visitor Experience

Job Summary

The Palette Café Manager oversees all daily café operations, ensures exceptional customer service, and leads a high-performing team. This role manages staff, inventory, food preparation, safety compliance, and financial procedures while maintaining a clean, efficient, and welcoming environment for visitors.

Manager Duties & Responsibilities

• Maintain the standard of excellence set forth by the Flint Institute of Arts in all operations of the café
• Identify and implement opportunities to enhance menu offerings, service efficiency, and overall café experience
• Lead the café team in creating a positive visitor experience and strong service culture
• Recruit, train, and supervise café staff in daily operations, schedule to ensure appropriate shift coverage
• Oversee daily operations, including preparation of food and beverage for customers
• Manage inventory and fulfill food, beverage, and dry goods orders
• Supervise proper preparation and storage of food ensuring compliance with health department standards
• Comply with all safety, sanitation, and licensing requirements of a food service establishment
• Maintain cleanliness and organization in the café and catering kitchen; ensure equipment is functioning and coordinate repairs as needed
• Manage cash handling procedures, POS operations, deposit procedures, and basic financial recordkeeping
• Plan weekly specials and assist with menu updates based on trends and sales
• Support small-scale catering for internal events
• Address customer and staff inquiries, complaints, or concerns promptly and professionally
• Collaborate with Marketing to promote the café as a neighborhood amenity
• Communicate with the Director of Visitor Experience regarding operations, staffing needs, and urgent issues
• Assist the Visitor Experience team at major special events
• Other duties as assigned by the Director of Visitor Experience

Manager Requirements & Qualifications

This role offers an exciting opportunity for a dedicated professional to lead a vibrant café while delivering outstanding culinary experiences. We seek individuals committed to excellence in hospitality management who thrive in fast-paced settings.

• Associate’s or bachelor’s degree preferred; equivalent 5 years experience considered
• Proven leadership and management skills in food service or hospitality required
• Knowledge of culinary techniques, food handling standards, and customer service excellence is essential
• Demonstrated creativity and ability to generate innovative ideas for menus, operations, and guest experience
• Familiarity with inventory control, budgeting, and food industry best practices
• Proficiency with POS systems; TOAST strongly preferred
• ServSafe Manager and TIPS/TAM certification required (or ability to obtain promptly)
• Ability to work independently, problem-solve effectively, and manage multiple priorities

Physical Requirements

• Must be able to lift up to 50lbs.
• Must be able to endure shifts of up to twelve hours on your feet. This position requires standing, walking, lifting, grasping, reaching, pushing, pulling, bending, and kneeling. Adequate breaks will be taken when time allows.

To apply Cover letter and resume required. Submissions accepted via really or sent to cafe@flintarts.org. No phone calls.

Disclaimer The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work to be performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. All personnel may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities from time to time, as needed.

Expected hours: 40 per week

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Employee discount
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Paid training
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person