Line Cook - Madison Caf

Line Cook Position At Wonderstate Coffee

For us, coffee is a source of wonder. Since 2005, Wonderstate has roasted earnest and extraordinary coffees that honor relationships and champion our collective future. As the 2010 and 2025 Roast Magazine Roaster of the Year and five-time Good-Food award winner, our mission continues to expand with three cafes and strong customer relationships in grocery stores, coffee shops, and offices around the Upper-Midwest and all over the country. Yet like the Driftless region we call home, we know you don't have to be big to make an impact. From our industry-leading minimum price guarantee to farmers, to our 100% solar powered roastery, 5% Giving program, and embracing a healthy work-life balance for all staff, we're working to do our part.

We're seeking collaborative, curious, and kind people to join us and to build our collective future, together.

Position Overview

The Line Cook prepares high-quality food with consistency, efficiency, and attention to detail while helping create an exceptional caf experience for every customer. This role supports daily kitchen operations by preparing menu items, maintaining food safety standards, and contributing to a clean, organized, and collaborative work environment.

Working closely with the Kitchen Lead, Bakery Lead, Caf Manager, and caf team, the Line Cook helps deliver food that reflects Wonderstate's commitment to excellence and hospitality.

Core Responsibilities

Food Preparation & Quality

• Prepare menu items according to established recipes, procedures, and quality standards.
• Maintain consistency in food presentation, portioning, and preparation.
• Monitor food quality and communicate concerns promptly.
• Support daily food production to meet caf demand.

Kitchen Operations & Food Safety

• Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary kitchen environment.
• Follow all food safety, sanitation, and SafeServ guidelines.
• Assist with kitchen setup, breakdown, cleaning, and routine maintenance.
• Support inventory organization and communicate product or supply needs.

Teamwork & Customer Experience

• Collaborate with kitchen and front-of-house teams to ensure smooth caf operations.
• Communicate clearly and respectfully with coworkers.
• Support customers when needed while providing friendly and professional service.
• Contribute to a positive, collaborative team environment.

Operational Excellence

• Follow established kitchen procedures and daily workflows.
• Assist with catering, special events, and other caf initiatives as needed.
• Participate in training, cross-training, and continuous improvement efforts.
• Demonstrate Wonderstate's mission, values, and commitment to honoring relationships.

Other Duties

Duties, responsibilities and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice.

Supervisory Responsibilities

This position has no supervisory responsibilities.

Required Skills & Abilities

• Strong attention to detail and commitment to food quality.
• Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced kitchen environment.
• Excellent organization and time management skills.
• Ability to communicate respectfully and work collaboratively with others.
• Commitment to cleanliness, food safety, and workplace organization.
• Ability to follow recipes, procedures, and operational standards consistently.
• Reliable, dependable, and accountable.
• Passion for high-quality food, hospitality, and supporting Wonderstate's mission and values.

Education & Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
• Previous kitchen, food service, or restaurant experience preferred but not required.
• Food safety certification (or willingness to obtain) preferred.
• Passion for cooking and willingness to learn.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand for extended periods.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
• Frequent bending, reaching, lifting, twisting, and repetitive movement.
• Ability to safely operate kitchen equipment.

Work Environment

• Fast-paced kitchen environment.
• Exposure to heat, sharp equipment, cleaning chemicals, and varying temperatures.
• Weekend, holiday, and occasional evening availability required based on business needs.
• Participation in staff meetings, deep cleaning, catering, and special events as needed.

Position Details

• Employment Type: Part-time or Full-Time
• Compensation: This position participates in Wonderstate's tip pool. Wonderstate guarantees a minimum base pay of $15.00 per hour. If hourly wages plus tips fall below this amount, Wonderstate will make up the difference.
• Benefits: Employees regularly scheduled to work 20 hours or more per week are eligible for Wonderstate's benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, retirement plan, wellness and commuter reimbursements, employee discounts, shift meals, and free coffee.

Wonderstate is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.