Cafe Front of House Assistant Manager

Company Description

Penny's Coffee Shop is a charming cafe located on Main Street across from the Jacobs School of Medicine in Buffalo, NY. Founded by a local couple—a PhD student and a chiropractor—the cafe was built on their shared dream to create a cozy and welcoming space in the Medical District. Named after their beloved dog, Penny, the coffee shop is known for its warm atmosphere and dedication to serving quality food and beverages. As part of the community, Penny's Coffee Shop aims to deliver exceptional customer experiences and foster local connections.

Role Description

Join our dynamic team as a Front of House Assistant Manager, where your energy and leadership will elevate the guest experience in a fast-paced, vibrant environment. In this role, you will oversee daily front-of-house operations, ensuring exceptional customer service, efficient food and beverage service, and smooth team management. Your proactive approach will help create a welcoming atmosphere that keeps guests coming back while maintaining high standards of hospitality and food safety. This is an exciting opportunity for a motivated individual with a passion for hospitality management and team leadership to make a meaningful impact in a lively dining setting.

Responsibilities

• Lead and supervise front-of-house staff to deliver outstanding customer service, ensuring all guests feel valued and attended to promptly.
• Oversee shift management, including delegating tasks, and maintaining operational flow during busy periods.
• Manage food and beverage service, including overseeing food preparation, serving, bar operations, and ensuring adherence to quality standards.
• Handle cash transactions accurately using square POS system; manage cash handling procedures and reconcile daily sales.
• Monitor inventory control processes to ensure stock levels are maintained, including ordering supplies and minimizing waste.
• Train new team members on food handling safety, customer service protocols, POS operation, and restaurant policies; support ongoing staff development.
• Ensure compliance with food safety regulations and health standards; conduct regular safety audits and training sessions.
• Assist in budgeting efforts by controlling costs related to food production, labor, and supplies while maximizing profitability.
• Foster a positive team environment through effective supervision, coaching, and performance feedback.
• Support kitchen management by coordinating between front-of-house and kitchen staff to ensure seamless service delivery.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in restaurant management or supervisory roles within quick service or fast food establishments; fine dining or casual dining experience is highly desirable.
• Strong knowledge of food preparation techniques, food safety standards, and kitchen operations.
• Hands-on experience with POS systems such as square POS; proficient cash handling skills.
• Demonstrated leadership skills with previous supervising or assistant manager experience; capable of training and developing staff effectively.
• Excellent customer service skills with the ability to handle challenging situations professionally.
• Familiarity with inventory control processes and food management practices within the food industry.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities efficiently in a high-energy environment; shift management experience is preferred.
• Knowledge of hospitality management principles including budgeting, food safety compliance, and team supervision.
• Strong communication skills coupled with a proactive attitude toward problem-solving and team collaboration. Join us in creating memorable dining experiences by leading our front-of-house team with enthusiasm and professionalism!

Pay: $18.00 - $24.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Employee discount
• Paid time off
• Paid training

Experience:

• Barista: 1 year (Preferred)
• Food management: 2 years (Required)
• Leadership: 2 years (Required)
• Café: 2 years (Required)