Shift Supervisor - Chicago

Blue Bottle Coffee • Chicago, IL

2d • Onsite

About The Position

A Shift Supervisor is an integral member of cafe leadership, helping deliver exceptional hospitality and elevate the coffee experience while upholding cafe standards and working toward business objectives. The role fosters continuous learning and motivates team members to refine their skills and performance. The Shift Supervisor has influence within the team but no direct reports, and leads collaborative efforts toward shared success.

The position supports cafe operations and improvement, oversees service flow and staff deployment, manages operational tasks such as inventory and cash handling, and helps onboard and train team members. It also involves preparing and serving food and beverages, addressing guest concerns, supporting sustainability objectives, and promoting compliance with company standards and safety protocols.

The role is performed in a cafe environment that may include elevated temperatures from food and beverage equipment and cooler temperatures in refrigerated spaces. The stated pay is $18.93 per hour, plus tips averaging approximately $6–$10 per shift hour.

Requirements

• Eligible to work in the United States and at least 18 years of age.
• 6 months to 1 year of supervisory experience or experience in team leadership.
• Completed Blue Bottle Academy’s Barista training and validation program, or complete it within 90 days after hire.
• Existing Food Safety Certification required for the state and role, or obtain it within 30 days after hire.
• Basic math and computer skills.
• Flexible schedule with availability to work mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
• Ability to use hands for reaching, gripping, turning, and precision work.
• Ability to squat, bend, twist, and reach below waist level or above shoulders as needed.
• Ability to lift, push or pull, carry, and/or move up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to climb ladders, stairs, ramps, and traverse uneven floors or surfaces as needed.
• Ability to smell and taste coffee and food.
• Ability to listen and speak with guests.

Nice To Haves

• Passion for training and developing a team.
• Awareness of one’s impact on others and willingness to seek regular feedback.
• Strong communication skills and ability to provide motivating, impactful feedback.
• Curiosity and enthusiasm for finding new ways to delight guests.
• Resourcefulness, sound decision-making, and problem-solving ability.
• Empathy and dedication to guests and team members.
• Passion for sustainability and creating a sustainable future.

Responsibilities

• Contribute to sales growth initiatives and maintain knowledge of cafe expenditures.
• Support cafe operations and continuous improvement in an assigned operational area, ensuring the necessary routines, processes, and tools are in place.
• Oversee service flow to maintain safety, cleanliness, quality, and efficiency.
• Perform operational support duties including ordering, receiving, and inventory management.
• Follow the Leader on Duty process and checklists, deploy staff, oversee breaks, and ensure exceptional hospitality and adherence to beverage and food preparation standards.
• Facilitate onboarding and training for new team members.
• Manage cash handling and daily deposits.
• Promptly address guest concerns in the cafe.
• Report incidents of illness and injury according to protocol.
• Guide team members on new menu offerings and operational procedures.
• Lead efforts toward company-wide sustainability objectives and engage the team in those initiatives.
• Prepare and serve beverages and food items to quality standards.
• Supervise high-performing team members.
• Model high standards, continuous improvement, and Omotenashi-informed hospitality.
• Encourage curiosity and ongoing learning through participation in tastings, cuppings, and training sessions.
• Ensure compliance with company standards and safety protocols, using constructive feedback and support to promote a safe and respectful workplace.

Benefits

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage for eligible employees starting on the first day.
• Coffee training and continuing education.
• Free membership in the Specialty Coffee Association of America and discounts on events.
• 401(k) plan.
• Paid time off and paid volunteer hours.
• 50% discount on products online and in cafes.
• Two free drinks during shifts for cafe team members.
• Flexible spending account.
• Commuter benefits.
• Employee Assistance Program.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed