Coffee Shop Manager

Location: 134 South California Avenue, Chicago, IL (On-site)

Schedule: Full-Time, typically 6 days per week

Status: Exempt

Salary: $65,000-$70,000 annually

About BandWith Chicago

BandWith is a Chicago-based nonprofit dedicated to providing lasting access to instrumental and vocal music instruction in underserved communities. Through music education, ensemble performance, and mentorship, we empower youth and strengthen community wellness. Learn more at .

As part of our broader workforce development strategy, the new BandWith Performing Arts Center Coffee Shop will operate as a social enterprise providing employment and training opportunities for East Garfield Park residents. In a neighborhood with no other coffee shops, this space will fill a long-standing gap while generating jobs and serving as a hub for creative activity and connection.

Position Summary

The Coffee Shop Manager will lead the launch and oversee the day-to-day operations of BandWith’s in-house coffee shop. This individual will build and manage the café team, ensure excellent and inclusive customer service, oversee ordering and inventory, and maintain compliance with health and safety standards.

The ideal candidate is a hands-on, experienced food service professional with strong leadership skills, a passion for community building, and a commitment to equity and inclusion.

Key Responsibilities

Pre-Opening (Mid-December 2025 – Mid-January 2026)

• Oversee the completion of the Coffee Shop build out
• Partner with the Executive Director and the Manager of Operations to prepare the coffee shop for launch, including vendor sourcing, equipment setup, and health department compliance.
• Complete or renew Food Sanitation Manager Certification (BandWith will support certification if not currently held).
• Establish systems for ordering, inventory, and point-of-sale (POS) operations.

Daily Operations & Leadership

• Serve as the primary on-site employee during the initial launch phase, overseeing scheduling, ordering, and customer service.
• Maintain high standards for product quality, service, and presentation for both in-house and to-go customers.
• By January 2026, recruit, train, and supervise additional café staff with an emphasis on teamwork, accountability, and workforce development.

Customer & Community Experience

• Serve as a welcoming and inclusive presence, reflecting BandWith’s mission and values.
• Model excellent customer service and ensure a consistent, positive experience for all guests.
• Collaborate with the BandWith team to coordinate cross-promotions, events, and community programming connected to the café.

Compliance & Safety

• Ensure full compliance with Chicago Department of Public Health regulations for sanitation and food safety.
• Maintain cleanliness, safety, and accessibility at all times.

Financial & Administrative Management

• Manage coffee shop budget, sales tracking, and expense monitoring.
• Oversee cash handling and ensure POS system accuracy.
• Provide regular reports on financial performance and operations to the Director of Development & Operations.

Ideal Candidate Qualifications

• 2+ years of experience in coffee shop or restaurant management
• Strong leadership, staff training, financial management, and customer service skills
• Knowledge of coffee preparation, service operations, and equipment maintenance
• Food Sanitation Manager Certification preferred; required within 30 days of hire (employer-supported)
• Deep alignment with BandWith’s mission of equity, arts access, and community engagement
• BIPOC candidates are strongly encouraged to apply

Timeline

• Hiring target: December 15, 2025 – January 1, 2026
• Coffee Shop Launch Goal: February 1, 2026

Additional Information

This is a full-time, in-person position located at BandWith’s new Performing Arts Center in East Garfield Park.

Some evening and weekend hours may be required for special events or programs.

BandWith offers a comprehensive benefits package , including:

• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development support

To Apply:

• To Apply, please fill out this form:
• OR send your resume and cover letter to [email protected] with "COFFEE SHOP MANAGER" in subject.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $65,000.00 - $70,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person