Company Overview
Our menu draws on the timeless tenets of Italian cooking: simplicity, quality ingredients and skilled preparation. We partner with local farmers and producers here in Ontario to showcase the best seasonal ingredients while honouring Italian tradition. By combining the flavours and techniques of Italy with the freshness of our local community, we offer dishes that are both authentic and accessible.
In every dish we strive to honour Italian tradition while offering a taste that feels fresh and thoughtfully crafted—served with a touch of Lenny’s playful charm. Join us and savour la dolce vita one bite at a time.
Position Summary
Lenny’s Cafe , opening this fall, is seeking a reliable and hands-on Lead Hand to support daily kitchen and bakery operations in a fast-paced Italian café environment. This role is ideal for someone with strong baking experience, particularly with focaccia bread production, who can lead by example, maintain quality standards, and support a small kitchen team.
The successful candidate will help oversee prep, baking, cleanliness, food quality, and kitchen organization while ensuring a positive and efficient work environment.
Key Responsibilities
Baking & Food Production
- Prepare and bake fresh focaccia bread daily to company standards
- Assist with preparation of baked goods, sandwiches, sauces, soups, and café menu items
- Ensure consistency in dough preparation, proofing, baking, and presentation
- Monitor baking schedules and production levels to avoid shortages and waste
- Maintain freshness and food quality standards throughout the day
Kitchen Leadership
- Oversee daily opening, service, and closing procedures
- Lead and support kitchen staff during shifts
- Train new employees on recipes, kitchen procedures, cleanliness, and food safety
- Help organize daily prep lists and prioritize tasks
- Step into various kitchen roles as needed during busy periods
- Lead, coach, and support front-of-house and kitchen team members
- Foster a positive, professional, and team-oriented workplace culture
- Assist with hiring, onboarding, and training new employees
- Maintain calm and professionalism during rush periods
Food Safety & Compliance
- Ensure compliance with all food safety, sanitation, and workplace health & safety standards
- Maintain clean and organized front-of-house and kitchen areas
- Monitor proper food storage, labeling, and rotation (FIFO)
- Ensure equipment is cleaned and maintained properly
- Ensure employees follow operational procedures and company standards
Inventory & Operational Controls
- Monitor inventory levels and assist with ordering supplies and ingredients
- Reduce waste and support proper food handling and storage procedures
- Communicate shortages or operational issues to management promptly
- Assist with receiving and organizing deliveries
Administrative & Business Support
- Support ownership with operational reporting and problem-solving
- Assist with implementing promotions, operational improvements, and new procedures
Qualifications & Experience
- Previous leading kitchen or bakery experience (4-5 years)
- Experience baking focaccia bread required (2 years)
- Experience in café or restaurant environment considered an asset
- Strong organizational and multitasking abilities
· Positive attitude with leadership capability
- Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and lead under pressure
- Food Handler Certifications
- Flexible availability including mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays
Preferred Traits
- Hands-on leader who leads by example
- Positive attitude with strong communication skills
- Strong problem-solving ability
- Reliable, accountable, and professional
- Passion for hospitality, food, and customer experience
Working Conditions
- Fast-paced café and kitchen environment
- Standing and walking for extended periods
- Ability to lift up to 40 lbs as needed
- Flexible schedule required based on business needs
Salary
$22-25 Depending on experience
Our recruitment process may include the use of AI to assist with candidate screening. All applicant information is handled in accordance with applicable privacy and employment legislation.
