Prepared Foods Shift Leader BOH

Pay: $21.68 to $25.75 per hour

Description WHO WE ARE We’re a community-owned natural foods grocery store passionate about high-quality food, sustainability, and the cooperative business model. Our mission is rooted in serving our community while creating a workplace that is inclusive, engaging, and supportive. We strive to set a high standard for employment practices by fostering a culture of respect, integrity, and growth. We’re looking for positive, motivated people who take pride in delivering excellent customer service, value the quality of their work, show up reliably for their team, and enjoy working together to make a meaningful impact every day. Job Title: Prepared Foods Shift Leader Reports to: Prepared Foods Managers Status: Non-Exempt, Union Position Wage Range : Union level 3 ( 21.68-$25.75 ) Schedule : Variable; typically assigned as an AM or PM Shift Leader, with flexibility to work either shift as needed for coverage, including weekends and holidays POSITION SUMMARY 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.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Leadership & Team Support
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

Operations & Execution
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
Quality, Safety & Compliance
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

Customer Experience
Model excellent customer service and support staff in delivering it
Resolve customer concerns promptly and professionally
Ensure department appearance is clean, stocked, and inviting
Department Maintenance
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

General Act as a communication link between team members and management Support a positive, respectful, and engaged team environment Perform other duties as assigned

Requirements
QUALIFICATIONS
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.
Previous experience in a food service or prepared foods environment preferred, including experience supporting or guiding team workflow
Demonstrated reliability and consistency in attendance, with the ability to meet scheduling requirements
PHYSICAL 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
BENEFITS AT THE CO-OP
Up to 25% staff discount & access to wholesale orders
Medical/dental/vision and supplemental insurance options
401(k) w/match
Paid time off
Pay on Demand
Access to EAP
UNION AFFILIATION
: This position is represented by Teamsters Local 231. Terms and conditions of employment, including wages, benefits, and working conditions, are governed by the collective bargaining agreement between the Community Food Co-op and the union.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY STATEMENT:
The Community Food Co-op is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER
: Employees are expected to act in the best interest of the Co-op, even if doing so requires actions or responsibilities not listed in the above job description. The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by those assigned to this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities required of this position. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Other duties may be assigned which are not considered essential and may not be listed here.