Barista Manager

Welcome to The Forge Bagel Co., purveyors of fine Polishire Bagels

The Forge is a new, fusion-style bagel bistro that is elevating the bagel scene in Winnipeg by offering unique, hand-formed artisan bagels directly inspired by the traditions of Poland and England. Unlike most bagels made in Winnipeg, our Polishire bagels are labour-intensive and require extensive stretching and hand-shaping to create the delicious, “creamy chew” that bagel aficionados love. When combined with wholesome ingredients and bold flavour profiles, our products attract those who crave a total taste experience - not just a breakfast staple.

To complement our Polishire bagels, we offer signature, handmade lifts (cream cheeses, jams, and spreads). In addition, we’ve curated a premium, custom-blended espresso and coffee that’s crafted for those who truly appreciate exceptional flavour. At The Forge Bagel Co., our customers will experience a new standard of bistro that is driven by quality and delivered with heart.

We’re opening in November 2025 at 692 St. Anne’s Road, and we’re hiring in anticipation of our grand opening. If you’re passionate, energetic, and eager to be part of something truly special, we’d enjoy hearing from you.

**Details**

We are seeking a full-time Barista Managerto help with our new and growing venture. This role will be based out of our new location at 692 St. Anne’s Rd.

This front-of-house role will be responsible for the overall operation of our barista team and guest services, including leading-managing-supervision, onboarding and training, shift scheduling, and overseeing all customer service interactions and complaints. The role will also participate with the preparation and serving of beverages, such as our premium, custom-blended coffee and espresso and other espresso-based beverages, in addition to creating and suggesting new beverage options and ideas. The position requires previous management or supervisory experience within a coffee shop, café, or food service environment, and a deep understanding of coffee preparation techniques, brewing methods, and product knowledge. While managing a small team of baristas, the position will work closely with a kitchen team consisting of bakers, cooks, and chefs.

Business operating hours will be 7:30am-2:00pm, Tuesday-Saturday; the role will work the appropriate full-time hours to accommodate daily business operations. The commencement date will be in late October in anticipation of our grand opening in November 2025.

**Responsibilities**:

- Manage and supervise daily operations, including opening and closing procedures.
- Interview, onboard, and train, new baristas.
- Create staff work schedules, manage shifts, and find replacements for absent employees.
- Create and suggest new beverage options and ideas.
- Lead and actively participate with the preparation and serving of coffee and espresso-based beverages and serving of bagels and sandwiches.
- Train and mentor staff on beverage preparation, customer service techniques, and safety protocols.
- Address performance issues and collect regular feedback.
- Ensure every customer receives exceptional service and that all products meet high quality standards.
- Resolve customer complaints and issues in a timely and professional manner.
- Engage with customers, provide menu recommendations and answer customer questions about menu items and ingredients.
- Operate and maintain coffee and expresso equipment, including espresso machines, grinders, and blenders.
- Set up and stock the workstation with necessary ingredients, tools, and supplies before and during shifts.
- Monitor inventory levels, perform checks, complete storage logs, and address shortages.
- Follow all food safety and sanitation regulations, maintaining a clean and organized work area, and properly handling and storing food.
- Adopt The Forge philosophy of excellent customer service and friendly attitude at all times.

**Qualifications**:

- Proven experience in a supervisory or managerial role within a coffee shop, café, or food service environment.
- Strong leadership skills with the ability to motivate, train, and manage a team.
- A deep understanding of coffee preparation techniques, brewing methods, and product knowledge.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for interacting with both staff and customers.
- Passion for coffee and expresso and a commitment to delivering a high-quality product and memorable customer experience.
- Process payments, handle cash, and perform financial reconciliation.
- Exceptional multitasking and organizational skills to manage multiple orders simultaneously during peak hours.
- Ability to stand and walk for long periods, and lift up to 35 lbs.
- Knowledge of food safety and sanitation practices including valid Canadian food handler’s certificate.
- Reliable and punctual for early morning start times.
- A positive attitude and the ability to work consistently and efficiently as part of a team.

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