Lead Market Associate- Fine Dining, Upscale Italian Restaurant

Angelina’s Family of Restaurant-Italian Fine Dining Restaurant

Job Description: Lead Market Associate

Job Summary

The Lead Market Associate supports daily operations of the Bottega Angelina Mercato’s Italian market by delivering exceptional guest service, maintaining high product standards, and guiding team members on the floor. This role acts as a shift leader, ensuring smooth operations, strong product knowledge, and an elevated customer experience rooted in our Angelina’s family of restaurant’s Italian culinary culture.

This unique position supports daily operations of the Italian market by delivering exceptional guest service, maintaining high product standards, crafting quality coffee beverages, promoting Italian culture, and showcasing a variety of curated Italian goods such as pasta, a variety of sauces, cheeses, salamis and more!

Qualifications:

1. Fluent in English.
2. 21 years of age or older.
3. At least 2 years of experience in the food, beverage, or hospitality industry.
4. At least 2 to 3 years of specialty Market Associate experience
5. Prior leadership or supervisory experience preferred
6. Strong knowledge of Italian cuisine and products
7. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
8. Ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment
9. High school diploma required; college education preferred.
10. Availability to work at least 40 to 50 hours per week, including weekends and holidays.
11. Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and stand for extended periods.
12. Enthusiasm for Italian cuisine and culture
13. POS Knowledge 

Essential Functions:

Guest Experience & Sales

• Provide outstanding, hospitality-driven customer service
• Actively engage guests with product recommendations (cheeses, salumi, pasta, sauces, olive oils, etc.)
• Drive sales through effective upselling and product storytelling
• Resolve guest concerns professionally and promptly

Team Leadership

• Lead and support Market Associates during shifts
• Train new team members on product knowledge, service standards, and operations
• Coach staff on upselling techniques and guest engagement
• Delegate tasks and ensure accountability on the floor

 Product Knowledge & Merchandising

• Maintain advanced knowledge of Italian products, including:
  • Imported cheeses and cured meats
  • Fresh and dry pasta
  • Specialty pantry items
• Ensure proper product rotation (FIFO), labeling, and freshness
• Oversee visual merchandising and ensure displays are clean, stocked, and appealing

Operations & Execution

• Open and/or close the market as assigned
• Monitor inventory levels and assist with ordering and receiving deliveries
• Ensure compliance with food safety and sanitation standards
• Support POS operations and handle cash transactions accurately

Compliance & Quality Control

• Enforce company policies and health regulations
• Maintain cleanliness and organization throughout the market
• Address and report product or safety concerns immediately

 Preferred Skills

• Passion for Italian food, wine, and culture
• Strong sales and upselling ability
• Training and coaching experience
• Problem-solving and decision-making skills

 Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand for extended periods
• Lift up to 25–50 lbs
• Frequent bending, reaching, and carrying
• Employees must engage with customers while remaining active in a dynamic environment.

Competencies:

1. Customer-first mindset with excellent interpersonal skills.
2. Strong organizational, multitasking abilities, and attention to details.
3. Ability to communicate product knowledge clearly and enthusiastically.

Work Environment:
This position takes place in a vibrant upscale restaurant environment, with the Mercato serving as the focal point upon entry. Team members will work in a dynamic café located within our elegant restaurant.

Expected Hours of Work:
This position works up to 50 hours a week, regularly requires evening, weekend, and holiday shifts to meet customer demand.

Other Duties

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Angelina’s Restaurant is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Employment decisions are made without regard to any protected classification under applicable federal, state, or local law.