Shift Lead

Company Description Labora Cafe is a modern specialty coffee and matcha brand centered on elevating everyday rituals through intentional design and premium ingredients. The team focuses on thoughtful hospitality, creating spaces where quality, culture, and experience come together in a refined yet approachable way. From ceremonial-grade matcha sourced from Japan to carefully crafted coffee beverages, every detail is curated to feel special and welcoming. As a lifestyle brand, Labora Cafe is committed to meaningful customer experiences, beautiful spaces, and a new standard for modern hospitality. As the company grows, its vision is to redefine café culture through innovation, design, and unforgettable service in iconic destinations that guests genuinely connect with.

Role Description The Shift Lead at Labora Cafe is a full-time, on-site role based in North Park, San Diego, CA. This role oversees daily café operations during assigned shifts, including opening and closing procedures, cash handling, and ensuring smooth workflow on the bar and floor. The Shift Lead guides and supports team members, coordinates breaks and task assignments, and maintains high standards for beverage quality, food presentation, cleanliness, and guest experience. Responsibilities include assisting with training new team members, resolving guest concerns in a professional manner, monitoring inventory levels, and communicating operational needs to management. The Shift Lead serves as a key point of contact during the shift, ensuring that Labora’s hospitality, brand standards, and safety protocols are consistently upheld.

Qualifications

• Possess or will possess a food handler's card before working.
• Experience leading or supervising shifts in a café, restaurant, or retail environment, with the ability to coordinate staff and manage daily operations.
• Strong customer service and hospitality skills, including clear communication, problem-solving, and the ability to create welcoming, memorable guest experiences.
• Hands-on barista or café experience, including preparing espresso-based drinks, specialty coffee, and matcha beverages, with attention to consistency and quality.
• Organizational and time-management skills to handle multiple tasks, maintain cleanliness, and follow opening/closing and cash-handling procedures accurately.
• Ability to work on-site in San Diego, CA, with flexible availability for weekends, mornings, evenings, and holidays as needed.
• Comfort with point-of-sale systems and basic cash management; familiarity with inventory checks and stock organization is a plus.
• Collaborative mindset and ability to coach and support team members, contributing to a positive, inclusive, and respectful workplace culture.
• Previous experience in specialty coffee or premium hospitality environments is preferred; interest in design-forward, lifestyle-focused brands is beneficial.

Compensation

• Starts at $21.00 per experience and managerial discretion.