Job Title: General Manager
Department: Latte Life
Reports To: COO
Supervises: Trainee’s
FLSA: Exempt
Pay Starting 55K + DOE
SUMMARY
The General Manager (GM) is responsible for leading all operations of Life Unlimited‘s coffee shop “Latte Life” while also serving as an on-site trainer for individuals with disabilities participating in our barista academy and workforce development program.
BASIC FUNCTIONS AND GENERAL RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Coffee Shop Operations
- Oversee all daily operations of the coffee shop, including opening/closing procedures.
- Ensure high standards for beverage and food preparation, product quality, customer service, and store cleanliness.
- Manage inventory, ordering, vendor relations, and cost control.
- Maintain compliance with health, safety, food handling, and licensing regulations.
- Implement and refine operational systems, checklists, schedules, and workflows.
- Ensure the coffee shop environment reflects Life Unlimited’s mission of inclusion and community.
- Workforce Development & Training
- Provide hands-on training and job coaching to individuals with disabilities working or training in the coffee shop.
- Teach the skills for trainees to acquire some of the academy’s goals of: barista certification, customer service, food handling license and food preparation, inventory, POS systems competency, cleaning tasks, and workplace readiness.
- Work closely with Employment Services to:
- Develop participant training plans and goals
- Track progress and document skill development
- Identify long-term employment opportunities in the community
- Promote person-centered practices and positive, respectful communication.
- Maintain supportive learning environment where trainees feel valued, safe, and confident.
- Staff Leadership & Culture
- Create a culture of teamwork, respect, accountability, and mission alignment.
- Provide coaching, performance feedback, and professional development opportunities.
- Schedule trainees and ensure adequate coverage for all operating hours.
- Model strong customer service, empathy, and inclusive leadership at all times.
- Financial & Business Management
- Maintain accurate daily, weekly, and monthly financial records.
- Monitor and achieve sales targets, cost controls, labor efficiency, and other KPIs.
- Assist with budgeting, forecasting, and pricing strategies.
- Identify opportunities to improve revenue, reduce waste, and increase overall sustainability.
- Track training hours and productivity in alignment with grant or program reporting needs.
- Community Engagement & Mission Advancement
- Represent Latte Life and Life Unlimited’s mission to customers, partners, donors, and the broader community.
- Support marketing initiatives, special events, social media content, and storytelling that highlight workforce development success.
- Build positive relationships with local businesses, schools, volunteer groups, and potential employer partners.
- Promote the shop as a community hub that demonstrates the capabilities and contributions of people with disabilities.
- All Other Duties Assigned.
Physical Expectations
This position requires extended periods of walking and standing with some periods of sitting – depending on the needs and activities of the individuals supported. It may require light to heavy lifting and occasional stooping, kneeling, bending, and/or climbing stairs again depending on the needs of the individual supported. The position will require occasional physical intervention if confronted by a person displaying combative or potentially dangerous behavior.
Working Conditions
Full-time on-site role; may require early mornings, evenings, weekends, or special events. Must be able to stand for extended periods of time. Fast-paced environment with frequent interaction with customers and trainees.
Required Qualifications
- 3+ years of experience in coffee shop, café, or food service management.
- Strong barista skills and knowledge of beverage preparation and quality standards.
- Experience training, coaching, or mentoring others.
- Ability to work respectfully and effectively with individuals with disabilities.
- Knowledge of food safety, retail operations, cash handling, and health regulations.
- Excellent communication, teamwork, and customer service skills.
- Strong organizational and multitasking abilities in a fast-paced environment.
- Must obtain a Class E driver’s license during new hire orientation– must carry minimum coverage applicable by law for auto insurance
- Must Receive Seasonal Flu Vaccination
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience in workforce development, job coaching, or vocational training.
- Experience working with individuals with disabilities, especially in a community-based or supportive employment setting.
- Nonprofit or social enterprise background.
- ServSafe Manager certification.
- Experience with scheduling and POS systems.
Equal Opportunity Employer