Job Title: Shift Lead / Tea Barista Lead

Compensation:
· $16.50 per hour + tips (higher base rate than barista roles)

Travel Requirement: This role requires travel to Taiwan for 15 days of paid training. All travel-related expenses will be covered by the company. (Must have Passport)

About Us:
(Chicha San Chen) is a specialty tea house dedicated to quality ingredients from the beautiful island of Taiwan. We're looking for a natural leader to join our team—someone who can step into a supervisory role while staying connected to the art of tea.

Role Overview:
As a Shift Lead, you'll act as the manager-on-duty during your shifts, ensuring smooth operations, exceptional customer experiences, and team accountability. You'll mentor baristas, handle service recovery, and maintain quality standards—all while crafting beautiful tea beverages alongside your team.

Key Responsibilities:
Leadership & Operations

· Act as the point of contact for staff and customers during assigned shifts; escalate issues to management as needed.
· Open and close the shop according to established procedures, including cash management, security, and facility checks.
· Monitor team performance, providing real-time coaching on drink quality, speed, and customer engagement.
· Ensure shift coverage and manage breaks to maintain proper staffing levels during peak hours.

· Delegate tasks effectively to keep the floor clean, stocked, and organized.

Quality & Product Knowledge

· Maintain and enforce beverage quality standards, including proper steeping techniques, milk steaming, boba freshness, and recipe adherence.
· Conduct daily tea tastings and equipment checks to ensure consistency.
· Assist with inventory management—tracking tea, toppings, and supplies, and communicating reorder needs to management.

Customer Experience

· Handle customer concerns with professionalism and empathy, resolving issues in a way that upholds the brand's reputation.
· Model exceptional service standards, greeting guests, making recommendations, and creating a welcoming atmosphere.

Hands-On Barista Duties

· Prepare all menu items—tea lattes, bubble tea, loose-leaf service, and specialty drinks—with speed and accuracy.
· Maintain a clean and organized workspace, including brewing equipment, sealers, and counters.

Qualifications:

· 1–2 years of experience in a specialty coffee shop, tea house, or fast-casual food service environment.
· Previous leadership or supervisory experience preferred (formal title not required—we value demonstrated initiative).
· Strong knowledge of tea preparation, boba/bubble tea, and café equipment.
· Food Handler's Manager Certification (or ability to obtain within 30 days).
· Ability to remain calm and solution-oriented during busy rushes.
· Must be able to stand for extended periods, lift up to 30 lbs., and work a flexible schedule including weekends and holidays.

Language Skills: English required; Mandarin is often a plus for customer communication.