Café Shift Lead - Cedar Mill - Apply Today!
Posted on December 22, 2025
Grand Central Bakery is a renowned, mission-driven bakery and cafe chain that has been a staple in the Pacific Northwest since 1989. Known for its commitment to quality, sustainability, and community, Grand Central Bakery revolutionized bread culture by introducing rustic artisan loaves to Northwest tables. As a Certified B Corporation, the company values sustainability deeply; this commitment influences every aspect of the business, from ingredient sourcing to employee welfare and community investments. The bakery operates vibrant and welcoming cafes that offer delicious, high-quality food and beverages while maintaining outstanding customer service standards. Their work environment emphasizes respect, trust, collaboration, and inclusivity, ensuring a positive experience for both employees and customers alike.
The role of Cafe Shift Lead at Grand Central Bakery's Cedar Mill Cafe in Portland, OR, is a vital position within the team. This full-time role, offering a pay rate of $17.65 per hour plus estimated tips averaging $6.00 to $7.00 per hour, requires a passionate and enthusiastic individual who thrives in fast-paced, dynamic food service settings. The Cafe Shift Lead is responsible for maintaining the cafe's vibrant atmosphere by efficiently managing daily operations and frequently serving as the Person In Charge (PIC), ensuring regulatory compliance and smooth workflow. This leader works flexibly across various stations, including the sandwich bar during busy periods, and contributes to baking tasks one day per week.
The position demands someone who is customer-focused and able to deliver excellent service with professionalism and a personable approach. Additionally, the Cafe Shift Lead must maintain a food handler’s card and has preferably over one year of experience in food service and familiarity with point-of-sale systems. This role requires individuals who can stand for the entire shift, handle a certain physical workload, and work under the sometimes noisy and interruptive environment of a busy bakery cafe. The work schedule entails at least 25 hours weekly, including weekends, holidays, and specific availability on Sundays and Mondays. Flexibility is critical to accommodate the needs of the cafe and the community it serves.
Grand Central Bakery fosters a supportive workplace with comprehensive benefits such as health insurance, paid time off, a 401k plan with matching contributions, employee discounts, and more. The company prioritizes equal employment opportunities and is committed to maintaining a discrimination-free workplace that values diversity in all forms. For those eager to be part of a forward-thinking and values-driven organization dedicated to quality food and community impact, the Cafe Shift Lead position offers both professional growth and a rewarding work environment.
- Standing for 100% of the shift
- Ability to work weekends, holidays, and have flexible schedule including Sunday and Monday availability
- Ability to work in a loud environment with frequent interruptions
- Lifting and carrying items up to 20 lbs
- Exposure to flour and grain dust including wheat, rye, corn, and oat
- Maintain food handler’s card
- Basic math skills
- Ability to communicate in English