Prepared Foods Shift Leader

Community Food Coop•Bellingham, WA

3d•$20 - $23•Onsite

About The Position

The Prepared Foods Shift Leader is a working leader who supports daily front-of-house (service) and back-of-house (production) operations. This role combines hands-on work with leadership responsibilities, including organizing workflow, guiding staff, and maintaining standards for food quality, safety, and customer service. Shift Leaders set priorities for the shift, ensure effective communication, and provide real-time coaching and support to keep the department running smoothly. Shift Leaders are expected to confidently direct work during their shift, including adjusting priorities, reassigning tasks, and ensuring work meets department standards while maintaining a collaborative and respectful team environment.

Requirements

Strong ability to organize, delegate, and prioritize in a fast-paced environment
Effective communication and team leadership skills
Ability to stay calm under pressure and problem-solve in real time
Working knowledge of food safety and sanitation practices
Commitment to teamwork, accountability, and customer service excellence
Ability to confidently direct others’ work, provide constructive feedback, and uphold standards in a collaborative and professional manner.
Demonstrated reliability and consistency in attendance, with the ability to meet scheduling requirements
Ability to move throughout the department regularly to monitor work, support staff, and respond to operational needs
Ability to stand and walk for extended periods (up to 8 hours per shift)
Frequent use of hands for food preparation, packaging, and operating equipment
Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds occasionally, and up to 25 pounds regularly
Frequent bending, twisting, reaching, and kneeling
Ability to work in varying temperatures, including refrigerated and hot kitchen environments
Ability to safely use knives, kitchen tools, and food service equipment
Ability to communicate clearly and effectively with team members and customers
Ability to perform repetitive tasks while maintaining attention to detail and quality standards

Nice To Haves

Previous experience in a food service or prepared foods environment preferred, including experience supporting or guiding team workflow

Responsibilities

Organize, prioritize, and direct daily work, adjusting assignments based on business needs
Lead shift huddles and clearly communicate priorities, expectations, and updates
Provide training, coaching, and real-time feedback, including redirecting work to meet quality standards
Coordinate breaks and staffing to maintain appropriate coverage during peak times
Reassign tasks and shift staff between areas to support workflow and service levels
Address and communicate staff concerns to management as appropriate
Perform regular production and service duties alongside staff
Ensure team members are working on the highest priority tasks for the shift
Ensure production schedules, prep lists, and merchandising are completed
Oversee special orders to ensure accuracy and timeliness
Maintain clear communication for shift handoff and continuity
Ensure food quality, presentation, labeling, and freshness standards are met
Uphold and enforce sanitation, food safety, and workplace safety protocols
Monitor product temperatures, dating, and proper storage practices
Minimize waste while maintaining product availability and customer satisfaction
Model excellent customer service and support staff in delivering it
Resolve customer concerns promptly and professionally
Ensure department appearance is clean, stocked, and inviting
Maintain organized workspaces, including walk-ins and prep areas
Ensure accurate receiving, storage, and rotation of product
Support inventory awareness, waste tracking, and product utilization
Act as a communication link between team members and management
Support a positive, respectful, and engaged team environment
Perform other duties as assigned