Cafe Operations Manager Jobs in Mokena, IL (NOW HIRING)

The Cafe Lead is responsible for supporting the day-to-day operations of the cafe program while helping to lead and develop the cafe team. This role is hands-on and service-focused, with barista shifts serving as the primary responsibility. The Cafe Lead works closely with the Market Manager to uphold service standards, maintain operational systems, and create a welcoming guest experience throughout the cafe and market.

This position is ideal for someone with strong coffee knowledge, leadership experience, and a passion for hospitality, quality products, and team development. The Cafe Lead is expected to lead by example on the floor while helping oversee coffee service, recipe execution, cleanliness, ordering, inventory, and seasonal menu development.

In addition to cafe responsibilities, this role will be cross-trained on market retail operations and comfortable assisting with light bar service as business transitions into afternoon and evening service.

• Work regular barista shifts while serving as a leader and example for the cafe team
• Maintain high standards of coffee quality, recipe execution, cleanliness, organization, and guest hospitality
• Support daily cafe operations including opening/closing procedures, prep, stocking, and shift flow
• Help create a positive, welcoming, and efficient environment for both guests and staff
• Assist with training, coaching, and development of cafe team members
• Communicate clearly with the team regarding expectations, priorities, and service standards
• Maintain strong knowledge of coffee preparation, espresso dialing, milk steaming, and cafe equipment

• Assist in overseeing the cafe beverage program alongside management and coffee partners
• Lead recipe development and seasonal beverage offerings with support from the team and coffee partner
• Monitor product quality and consistency across all cafe offerings
• Manage cafe-related ordering, inventory, pars, and organization
• Assist in maintaining vendor relationships and communicating product needs

• Help oversee daily pastry ordering and pars
• Monitor pastry presentation, freshness, and overall quality
• Collaborate with management on seasonal pastry offerings and product development
• Assist with merchandising and display standards for cafe products

• Cross-train on market retail operations to assist guests and support the floor as needed
• Maintain familiarity with retail products, grocery items, wine, beer, and prepared foods
• Assist with register operations and guest questions throughout the market
• Support stocking, organization, receiving, and maintaining a visually appealing space

• Comfortable assisting with light bar service during afternoon and evening hours as needed
• Pour beer, wine, and other beverages while maintaining responsible service standards
• Maintain a strong floor presence and assist where business levels require support
• Support overall hospitality standards across both cafe and market operations

• 2+ years previous coffee and barista experience required
• Strong knowledge of espresso preparation, coffee service, and cafe operations
• Leadership experience in a cafe, coffee shop, restaurant, or hospitality setting preferred
• Passion for hospitality, food & beverage, and guest experience
• Experience using Toast POS.
• Strong communication, organization, and multitasking skills
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment
• Interest in seasonal menu development and product curation
• Basic knowledge of beer, wine, and bar service preferred
• Friendly, proactive, dependable, and team-oriented.

• Ability to lift and move up to 35 lbs throughout a shift.
• Comfortable standing, bending, and kneeling for extended periods.
• Comfortable working in refrigerated storage and other varying temperature environments.
• Ability to work a flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, and select holidays.

• $16 + tips
• 401(k)
• Employee discount on market products, food, and beverages
• Paid sick time
• Paid time off

At Piccadilly Market, we're committed to creating an exceptional neighborhood market experience through hospitality, quality products, and genuine community connection. We are looking for someone who is passionate about coffee, hospitality, and creating an exceptional guest experience. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys leading by example, thrives in a fast-paced environment, and is excited to help shape and grow a thoughtful neighborhood cafe program within a larger market and hospitality space. Whether you're looking to grow within the company or deepen your product knowledge, you'll have opportunities to learn, contribute, and make an impact every day.