Food Service Cafe Associate

Company Overview

Established in 1929, Heinen’s is a leading, family-owned grocery retailer known for its premium-quality products and outstanding customer service. Now in its fourth generation of family leadership, Heinen’s operates 23 locations – 18 in the Cleveland, Ohio area and 5 in the Chicago, Illinois market – supported by two distribution warehouses, a food production facility, and a corporate office located in Warrensville Heights, Ohio.

Our culture is rooted in an associate-first philosophy, placing a strong emphasis on the well-being, development, and quality of life of every team member. We offer competitive compensation, professional development and leadership training programs, paid time off, and flexible scheduling designed to promote a healthy work-life balance.

Job Summary

Heinen’s is seeking a dedicated and customer-focused Food Service Café Associate to join our team. This role is essential in delivering an exceptional in-store café experience by preparing high-quality food, maintaining a clean and welcoming environment, and providing outstanding customer service.

The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced setting, demonstrates strong attention to detail, and is committed to upholding Heinen’s standards of quality, safety, and service. Professionalism, teamwork, and a positive attitude are critical to success in this role.

Key Responsibilities

Food Preparation & Service

• Prepare and serve café items according to established recipes, food safety standards, and company procedures (e.g., pizzas, tacos, burritos, quesadillas, hot subs, donuts, fried foods, and other café offerings).
• Wash, peel, cut, and prepare ingredients including fruits, vegetables, and meats.
• Follow proper portioning, cooking, and presentation standards.
• Maintain strict adherence to food handling and temperature control guidelines.
• Demonstrate strong kitchen math skills and recipe adherence.

Customer Service

• Deliver prompt, friendly, and professional service to all customers.
• Respond to customer inquiries and ensure accurate order fulfillment.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and inviting café environment, including dining and preparation areas.

Operations & Teamwork

• Prioritize daily responsibilities based on business needs.
• Work collaboratively with team members to complete daily tasks.
• Assist with stocking, rotating product, scanning shrink, and restocking supplies.
• Support inventory management and minimize waste.
• Maintain compliance with all company policies, procedures, and safety standards.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Experience & Education

• Minimum of 2 years of café, kitchen, or short-order line cook experience preferred.
• Scratch culinary experience preferred.
• High school diploma or equivalent required.

Skills & Abilities

• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Knowledge of food safety and sanitation practices.
• Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment with a sense of urgency.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Strong attention to detail and production-driven mindset.
• Ability to perform repetitive tasks while standing for extended periods.
• Ability to frequently lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to work in temperatures ranging from 0°F to 90°F.
• Flexible availability, including evenings, weekends, and non-traditional five-day work schedules.

Heinen’s, Inc. provides equal employment opportunity to all persons regardless of age, color, national origin, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, marital status, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law.