Assistant Manager, Ula Cafe
Description:
Do you love being part of a team that serves delicious, community-focused food in a warm and welcoming environment?
Are you excited to help lead an exceptional group of people in a cafe that’s as much about connection as it is about food?
If so, Ula Cafe is looking for an Assistant Manager to join our dedicated team! As a Black-owned, woman-owned, and veteran-owned establishment in Jamaica Plain, Ula Cafe values inclusivity, sustainability, and community connection, and we’re seeking someone who shares our passion for these principles.
In this role, the Assistant Manager will work closely with both our front and back of house teams, leaning on their skills in customer service while also supporting the overall flow and operations of the cafe. Reporting directly to Ula's General Manager, the Assistant Manager will help maintain high standards of service, quality, and efficiency, ensuring that every guest experience is memorable. This leadership position calls for someone with a commitment to hospitality and team development, who can provide ongoing coaching and support to help team members thrive.
If you’re enthusiastic about quality food, excellent service, and being part of a vibrant community, we’d love to hear from you!
Responsibilities:
Team Leadership & Training
- Lead by example, ensuring top-tier customer interactions and service standards.
- Oversee FOH team performance, conduct working interviews, and provide ongoing training in POS systems, service, and espresso machine operation.
- Support new team members with thorough onboarding, coaching on scripts, customer service etiquette, and Ula Cafe values.
- Assist General Manager with implementing new initiatives and share important updates on catering orders, events, menu changes, and service adjustments.
- Manage FOH shift coverage as needed, and maintain a positive work environment by respecting individual contributions and anticipating team needs.
Operations & Workflow Management
- Manage daily FOH operations, including opening and closing tasks, deposit handling, and tip calculation.
- Maintain a clean and orderly dining room and customer restroom, ensuring a welcoming environment.
- Monitor and maintain stock levels for all FOH supplies, including retail items (coffee, merchandise, snacks) and espresso bar essentials (syrups, concentrates, iced beverages).
- Coordinate inventory counts and orders for FOH disposables and retail merchandise; communicate inventory needs to the kitchen team as necessary.
- Oversee basic upkeep of the espresso machine, coordinating routine maintenance with service providers.
Customer Relations & Service Excellence
- Cultivate strong relationships with regular customers, creating a friendly, inclusive cafe atmosphere.
- Field phone calls, customer questions, and complaints, escalating issues to the General Manager when needed.
- Guide team members in positive customer interactions and handle customer concerns with professionalism and care.
Administration & Scheduling
- Collaborate with the General Manager on employee scheduling and shift assignments, including auditing time entries and reviewing availability.
- Draft FOH team announcements, providing timely updates on scheduling, policies, and other relevant information.
- Maintain up-to-date records of employee schedules, availability, and any time-sensitive communications to ensure smooth operations.
Special Events & Community Engagement
Assist in planning, coordinating, and executing special events at Ula Cafe, including community gatherings, seasonal promotions, and private events.
Support FOH team with event-specific training and briefings to ensure seamless service and adherence to event guidelines.
Oversee event set-up and clean-up, ensuring all guest areas are prepared and maintained to Ula Cafe standards.
Act as an on-site point of contact for guests during select events, providing exceptional service and handling any guest needs or concerns.
Work with the General Manager to communicate event schedules, expectations, and any special menu offerings or procedures to the team in advance.
Hours
8- or 10-hour shifts
40 hours per week, primarily M-F
Work special events as frequently as once a week
Qualifications:
4+ years of quick service experience OR 2+ years of full service experience
3+ years of barista experience; proficiency making espresso drinks
2+ years of supervisory experience OR 1 year of management experience
Proficiency in Spanish
Proficiency working with Toast POS and Google Office Suit, especially Google Sheets
Creativity
High School diploma or GED required
Bachelor's degree or equivalent preferred
Compensation:
$45-50K salary
Paid vacation
Medical, dental and vision benefits
401(k)
Paid training
Free meals while working
Significant growth opportunities
To apply, please send a resume and cover letter to owner Beth Santos at beth@ulacafe.com