Concessions Lead

Department: Front of House

Supervisor: Front of House Manager

FLSA Category: Non- Exempt (hourly)

Terms of Employment: At Will

Position Status: Part-Time Under 30

Annual Salary: $20.00 / Hour Tips

Position Objective:

The Concessions Lead oversees the efficient operation of concessions during events, ensuring exceptional customer service, compliance with regulations, and effective inventory management. This role involves leading, training, and supervising the concessions team while upholding high standards of cleanliness, efficiency, and overall guest experience.

Duties and Responsibilities:

Key duties and responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

Customer Service & Sales

• Lead the concessions team in delivering outstanding service to guests.
• Sell and serve a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, snacks, and other concessions items.
• Ensure all employees adhere to California Alcohol and Beverage Control (ABC) laws and policies.
• Address customer inquiries, complaints, and special requests in a professional and timely manner.
• Maintain a welcoming and efficient environment to enhance the guest experience.

Operational Management

• Oversee and coordinate the setup, breakdown, and cleaning of concessions before and after events.
• Monitor and maintain inventory levels, ensuring timely restocking and proper storage of supplies.
• Ensure proper handling, storage, and cleanliness of all equipment and food items.
• Enforce sanitation procedures in compliance with state and local health regulations, as well as OSHA requirements.
• Conduct regular inspections to ensure cleanliness, food safety, and compliance with organizational policies.
• Ensure all concessions stands are adequately stocked and prepared before each event.
• Assist with other Front of House and operational duties as needed to support the success of events.

Leadership & Training

• Train and mentor concessions staff, ensuring they understand service expectations, safety guidelines, and product knowledge.
• Delegate tasks effectively to optimize workflow and maintain efficiency during events.
• Foster a positive team environment by providing guidance, support, and clear communication.
• Identify opportunities for staff development and recommend additional training as needed.
• Communicate operational concerns, supply needs, and staffing issues to the Front of House Manager

Administrative & Financial Responsibilities

• Accurately handle, track, and reconcile cash and credit transactions.
• Ensure compliance with opening and closing procedures to maintain security, efficiency, and accuracy.
• Monitor and manage labor hours to prevent unnecessary overtime and control operational costs.
• Maintain accurate records of inventory usage, sales trends, and staff performance for reporting purposes.
• Assist in developing and implementing strategies to improve sales and profitability.

Other duties as assigned by the direct supervisor.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.

• Strong leadership and team management skills, with the ability to motivate and guide staff.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and customer service skills to enhance the guest experience.
• Ability to multitask, prioritize, and remain calm in a high-pressure, fast-paced environment.
• Thorough understanding of food safety regulations, sanitation procedures, and alcohol service laws, including California ABC laws.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to handle customer concerns professionally and efficiently.
• Attention to detail and ability to maintain cleanliness and organization in concession areas.
• Basic math and cash-handling skills for accurate transaction processing and reconciliation.
• Proficiency in using point-of-sale (POS) systems and inventory tracking software preferred.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, as required by event schedules.

Education and Experience:

• Minimum of two years of experience in concessions, hospitality, food & beverage service, or a related field (preferably outside of CCAEF).
• Prior supervisory or lead experience preferred, with a track record of managing teams effectively.
• ABC “LEAD” certification preferred (must be willing to obtain if not already certified).
• Valid food handler’s card required (must be obtained before starting).
• Experience with cash handling, sales reconciliation, and POS systems preferred.
• Experience working in event-based or high-volume service environments is a plus.

Physical demands:

This role requires regularly lifting up to 30 lbs. and occasionally up to 50 lbs., as well as standing and walking for six or more hours per shift. Frequent bending, reaching, and repetitive hand movements are needed for handling inventory and operating equipment. Employees may work indoors and outdoors in varying weather conditions, often requiring prolonged standing or walking during events. Strong vision abilities and effective communication are essential. Reasonable accommodations may be made for individuals with disabilities.

Working Environment:

The work environment is a fast-paced, high-energy concessions setting with varying noise levels that can range from moderate to high during events. Employees may be exposed to fluctuating temperatures depending on whether events are indoors or outdoors.

The California Center for the Arts, Escondido is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer and considers qualified applicants without regard to race, color, creed, religion, ancestry, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identify, age, disability, veteran status or any other protected factors under federal, state or local law.

*Research indicates that many qualified candidates, especially women and individuals from underrepresented backgrounds, apply for roles only when they meet all the listed criteria. If you possess most but not every requirement and believe you could excel in the position, we welcome and encourage you to apply at the California Center for the Arts, Escondido.