Job Title: Cafe Manager
Location: Friendship Café, Fox Point, WI

Shift: 45 hours a week, flexible schedule.

Click Here to apply.

Job Summary:

Employees at the Friendship Café are representing all that the Friendship Circle stands for. With all the important tasks we do, the most important task of all is to make Friendship Café a place where everyone feels comfortable, accepted, and “at home.” For this reason, it is imperative for ALL employees to have a pleasant demeanor, smile at customers, staff, and participants, and leave personal conflicts or challenges at the door. People can FEEL positive energy, and it can transform someone’s experience completely.

The Café Manager will set the right vibe for the Friendship Café and lead the team to exceed customer expectations and commitments.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Manage the inventory of café supplies, including ordering, receiving, tracking waste, and minimizing loss.
  • Oversee, manage, and train new hires, including providing coaching, recognition, corrective feedback, and hands-on support.
  • Provide daily guidance, modeling proper café procedures and reinforcing customer service best practices.
  • Coordinate and fulfill café catering orders, ensuring on-time and accurate execution.
  • Create and maintain the café schedule, accommodating team members’ needs while ensuring full coverage during open hours.
  • Handle shift coverage needs, last-minute changes, and unexpected absences in a professional and timely manner.
  • Establish and maintain a clean, organized, and safe environment—both front and back of house.
  • Ensure compliance with food safety standards and maintain all necessary documentation and certifications.
  • Wear and enforce proper personal protective equipment (PPE) and uniform standards at all times.
  • Assist in leading bi-weekly Friendship Café meetings; contribute agenda items, updates, and team-building opportunities.
  • Track sales and provide input on pricing, promotions, and seasonal product ideas.
  • Calculate cost of sales and set menu prices accordingly.
  • Monitor and report any equipment malfunctions or building needs in a timely manner.
  • Collaborate with the Friendship Circle staff to coordinate café participation in events, holiday programming, and job training goals.
  • Support the personal and professional development of team members with special needs through positive reinforcement, clear task breakdowns, visual or verbal prompts, and encouragement.
  • Proactively identify teachable moments and skill-building opportunities for employees of all abilities.
  • Maintain a friendly, warm, and welcoming atmosphere for all customers and staff—modeling inclusive values and professionalism at every opportunity.

Required Qualifications:

  • Must be at least 21 years old.
  • Minimum 2 years of experience in a leadership role in a food service, hospitality, or café environment.
  • Serve Safe Certified (or willingness to obtain within 60 days of employment).
  • Strong understanding of food safety, health codes, and allergen handling.
  • Must be able to carry up to 50 lbs. and work in a fast-paced environment while standing for 4-10 hours. 
  • Must be able to operate a point-of-sale system, make changes, and accurately conduct credit card/cash transactions. 
  • Must be available to work days, and some nights, and weekends.   
  • Excellent communication, organization and time management skills.
  • Demonstrated ability to lead, motivate, and manage a diverse team.
  • Comfort working in a fast-paced environment and adjusting priorities as needed.

Ideal candidates will also have:

  • Experience working with individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities, or a strong interest in inclusive workforce practices.
  • Patience, empathy, and excellent verbal and non-verbal communication skills.
  • Experience creating and adapting training materials for various learning styles and abilities.
  • Strong interpersonal skills and a passion for mentorship and empowerment.
  • A collaborative, team-oriented spirit with a flexible approach to daily challenges.
  • Confidence managing conflict or customer concerns with professionalism and kindness.
  • A “lead by example” attitude—willing to step into any role, from mopping a spill to making a latte.
  • Creativity in solving problems, supporting individual growth, and improving café operations.
  • Knowledge of kosher food laws and practices, with the ability to support kosher standards in a café setting.

Compensation & Benefits:

Annual salary based on experience, plus the following benefits:

Starting Pay: $41,000 to $55,000 per year depending on experience plus a bonus incentive.

  • Paid Time Off
  • Flexible scheduling
  • Free/Discounted food and beverages
  • Free/Discounted uniform shirts

The Friendship Circle is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. The Friendship Circle will only employ those who are legally authorized to work in the United States for this opening.  Any offer of employment is conditioned upon the successful completion of a background check and drug screen.