Lead Barista and Food Handler Part-Time

STEPPENWOLF THEATRE COMPANY

Now celebrating its 50^th Anniversary Season, Steppenwolf Theatre Company has been a cultural leader in Chicago and model for theatre companies in the United States and around the world. Formed by a collective of actors in 1976, the ensemble represents a remarkable cross-section of actors, directors, playwrights and stage managers. Steppenwolf’s artistic ambitions are made possible by its incredible workforce of individuals, who help create a culture of inclusivity, collaboration and accountability. To that end, we attempt to use an anti-oppressive and anti-racist lens in our roles and everyday decision-making. Join us in this ongoing process, as we navigate, together, our complex world.

Steppenwolf Theatre Company is seeking candidates for the part-time position of Lead Barista and Food Handler at Front Bar, Steppenwolf’s café and bar connected to the main theater at 1700 N Halsted. Open throughout the day for use by the general community, Front Bar is a warm neighborhood hub serving coffee and espresso by Dark Matter, pastries provided by West Town Bakery and food made in-house. The menu features fresh, accessible fare, with breakfast pastries, salads and sandwiches for lunch and shareable small plates and desserts for evening and post-show service.

• This position reports to the Food and Beverage Director.
• Hours of employment range from weekdays 4 pm to 10 pm and weekends 11 am to 10 pm.

Areas of Responsibility:

• Functions as a Barista and Food Handler
• Provides directions to the team on assignments. Participates in the completion of work tasks and assists the team with complex tasks or problem areas. Acts as the ‘go-to’ resource for the team.
• Provides into for performance reviews, staff training and development of the team. Monitors the completion of work tasks by the team.
• Executes store operations during scheduled shifts, including opening and closing duties as assigned, deep cleaning tasks, ensuring side work is completed as well as prepping syrups, coffee and tea as needed.
• Assists in teaching and training new baristas.
• Assists with daily and weekly inventory orders as needed.
• Reports to the Manager on Duty any customer complaints, potential safety hazards, employee accidents, café needs or operational inconsistencies.
• Follow proper cash handling protocol. Provides change for tills as needed
• Prepare and serve quality food and beverages in a friendly manner
• Provide adaptive service that is cognizant of theater operations
• Maintain their station for cleanliness and sanitation and ensure the quality of all beverages
• Educate themselves and guests about coffee, tea and food offerings
• Engage our patrons as courteous, professional representatives of our company
• Assist patrons with disabilities (which includes developing proficiency in accessibility etiquette)
• Coordinate with the box office and other departments to streamline service
• Monitor and maintain public spaces for safety, cleanliness and presentation
• Serve as knowledgeable sources of information about the theatre and city

Successful candidates will:

• Excellent organization, customer service, teamwork, interpersonal and communication skills
• Be able to consistently work 20-24 hours per week, including weekends
• A minimum of 2 years coffee shop experience
• Demonstration of quality leadership
• Basic math skills
• Detail oriented
• Possess excellent time-management skills
• Be able to lift 40 pounds
• Experience with Toast POS

Compensation:

The hourly rate is $19.15 per hour, plus tips. The Steppenwolf Theatre Audience Services & Experience is governed by a collective bargaining agreement with the IATSE Treasurers and Ticket Sellers Union Local 750.

How To Apply:

Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, resume and three references to the link provided.

NO PHONE CALLS OR EMAILS PLEASE

About Steppenwolf:

Steppenwolf Theatre Company is the nation’s premier Ensemble Theater with 49 members who are among the top actors, playwrights and directors in the field. Thrilling, powerful, groundbreaking productions — from Balm in Gilead and Grapes of Wrath to August: Osage County, Downstate and The Brother/Sister Plays — have made this theatre legendary. Founded in 1976, Steppenwolf started as a group of teens performing in the basement of a church. Today, the company's artistic force remains rooted in the original vision of its founders: an artist-driven theatre, whose vitality is defined by its appetite for bold and innovative work. Every aspect of Steppenwolf is rooted in its Ensemble ethos, from the intergenerational artistic programming to the multi-genre performance series LookOut, to the nationally recognized work of Steppenwolf Education and Engagement which serves nearly 15,000 teens annually. While grounded in the Chicago community, more than 40 original Steppenwolf productions have enjoyed success nationally and internationally, including Broadway, Off-Broadway, London, Sydney, Galway and Dublin. Steppenwolf also holds accolades that include the National Medal of Arts, 12 Tony Awards, two Pulitzer Prize-winning commissions and more. Led by Artistic Directors Glenn Davis and Audrey Francis, Executive Director Brooke Flanagan and Board of Trustees Chair, Keating Crown — Steppenwolf continually redefines the landscape of acting and performance. 

For additional information, visit steppenwolf.org, facebook.com/steppenwolftheatre, twitter.com/steppenwolfthtr and instagram.com/steppenwolfthtr.

Steppenwolf Mission:

Steppenwolf strives to create thrilling, courageous and provocative art in a thoughtful and inclusive environment. We succeed when we disrupt your routine with experiences that spark curiosity, empathy and joy. We invite you to join our ensemble as we navigate, together, our complex world.

Steppenwolf Core Values:

Equity + Inclusion
Integrity + Curiosity
Courage + Collaboration
Accountability + Leadership

Steppenwolf Theatre Company is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. We provide equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, Steppenwolf complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.