Cafe General Manager

General Manager

Esteamed Coffee is more than just a cafe; we are a mission-driven hub in the heart of the community. We focus on providing high-quality coffee while creating meaningful employment and social opportunities for individuals with intellectual/developmental, visual and/or communication disabilities. We are looking for a General Manager who is as passionate about people and inclusion as they are about a great cup of coffee.

Role Overview

The General Manager is the heartbeat of our daily operations. They will oversee all aspects of the shop, from financial performance and inventory to staff development and community engagement. Most importantly, they will cultivate a supportive, high-energy environment where every team member - regardless of their ability - can thrive and succeed.

Leadership & Inclusion

• Help recruit, train, and mentor a diverse workforce, including individuals with disabilities.
• Provide hands-on training, customized support, and regular coaching to team members, teaching skills such as barista techniques, POS systems, customer service, and maintenance tasks.
• Foster a culture of kindness, patience, and excellence.
• Adapt training methods to suit various learning styles to ensure all staff members feel confident in their roles.
• Report directly and work in close alignment to the Operations Director. Assist the Executive Director with programs and special projects as needed.
• Actively give and receive feedback with professionalism. General Manager must be able to coach staff with clarity and empathy while remaining coachable themselves.
• Empowerment Focus: Dedicated to prioritizing employee independence over "taking over" tasks during fast-paced service rushes.

Operations

• Oversee all operations, including opening/closing procedures and ordering of product, as well as ensure consistent quality in beverages and food, cleanliness, and compliance with health and safety standards.
• Able to address and problem solve equipment failures, staffing shortages, or supply chain hiccups without disrupting the guest experience.
• Ability to pivot instantly and make firm, logical decisions during workplace crises without the need for constant supervision.
• Monitor inventory levels closely and pick up supplies from local vendors or stores when needs arise.
• Available and able to work events including evenings, both on-site and off-site if needed.
• Prioritize operations over special projects

Financial Stewardship

• Manage inventory, ordering, and vendor relations to minimize waste.
• Responsible for accurate cash counting, drawer reconciliation, and performing regular bank deposits.
• Monitor sales and labor hours.

Community & Brand Ambassador

• Strong commitment to the organization’s nonprofit mission of providing meaningful employment and social opportunities for people with disabilities.
• Set the tone for a welcoming, community-focused space that highlights the potential of all employees.
• Engage with the local community to build brand loyalty and awareness of our mission.
• Oversee in-store events to keep the community connected to our story.
• Handle customer feedback with grace, ensuring every guest leaves feeling valued.

Required Qualifications

Coffee/Food Service Leadership

• Experience: 3+ years of retail, store management, or food service leadership (with a strong preference for specialty coffee operations).
• Operational Execution: Documented success overseeing inventory, supplier relations, waste tracking, and POS system management.

Workforce Advocacy & Inclusive Coaching

• Job Coaching Ability: Proven ability to train, mentor, and adapt teaching methods for individuals of various abilities or skill levels
• Patience & Communication: Expert communication skills required to break down complex workflows into accessible, independent steps for neurodiverse staff.
• Boundary Management: Ability to maintain firm, professional workplace standards while fostering a supportive and compassionate team culture.

Leadership Attributes

• Hands-on Approach: Willingness to jump on the line, and perform any task alongside the team when needed.
• Mission Ambassador: Passionate about publicly championing the workforce.

Pay: $22.00 - $26.00 per hour

Expected hours: No less than 32.5 per week

Benefits:

• Employee discount
• Paid time off
• Paid training

Experience:

• Management: 3 years (Preferred)
• Work Location: In person