Canteen Assistant

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Department: Commandant
Reports to: Quartermaster

Position Summary:

The Canteen Assistant supports the daily operation of the Missouri Military Academy Canteen by providing exceptional customer service, maintaining inventory, ensuring accurate financial transactions, and creating a clean, safe, and welcoming environment for cadets, employees, parents, and visitors. This position assists the Quartermaster in the efficient operation of the canteen while helping ensure inventory accuracy, merchandising, and operational excellence.

In addition to canteen responsibilities, the Canteen Assistant serves as a versatile member of the Academy's operations team and may be assigned to assist other departments during periods of increased operational need, special events, staffing shortages, summer programs, or other Academy activities.

Key Responsibilities:

Assist in the daily operation of the Missouri Military Academy Canteen. 

Deliver outstanding customer service to cadets, employees, parents, alumni, and visitors. 

Operate the Point-of-Sale (POS) system accurately and efficiently. 

Maintain accountability for all cash, credit card transactions, and inventory. 

Open and close the canteen following established procedures. 

Maintain an organized, clean, safe, and inviting retail environment. 

Stock shelves, coolers, and displays to ensure products remain available and properly presented. 

Monitor inventory levels and assist with ordering merchandise and supplies. 

Conduct routine inventory counts and assist with inventory reconciliation. 

Recommend new products and merchandising ideas that enhance customer satisfaction and increase sales. 

Ensure all sanitation, health, and safety standards are maintained.

Assist with seasonal merchandise changes and special promotions.

Foster a welcoming environment where every customer is treated professionally and respectfully. 

Resolve routine customer concerns in a courteous and professional manner. 

Build positive relationships with cadets while maintaining appropriate professional boundaries. 

Assist the Quartermaster with inventory management, receiving deliveries, stocking merchandise, and maintaining accurate records. 

Assist with campus events, admissions events, summer programs, and special Academy functions as assigned. 

Provide operational support to other Academy departments during staffing shortages, peak operational periods, or other business needs. 

Perform a variety of operational and administrative duties as assigned to support the Academy's mission.

Help maintain appropriate order and behavior within the canteen while coordinating with Company Leadership Advisors as needed. 

Be familiar with Academy policies and procedures applicable to the canteen environment. 

Report safety concerns, maintenance issues, or inappropriate behavior promptly.

Qualifications:

Required:

High school diploma or equivalent. 

Excellent customer service and interpersonal skills. 

Basic computer skills. 

Ability to operate or learn a Point-of-Sale (POS) system. 

Strong cash handling and mathematical skills. 

Ability to work independently while managing multiple priorities. 

Ability to maintain confidentiality and professionalism. 

Flexibility to work afternoons, evenings, weekends, and special events.

Preferred:

Previous retail, food service, hospitality, or customer service experience is a plus.

Inventory management experience is a plus.

Experience working in an educational or military environment is a plus. 

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Strong organizational skills. 

Excellent communication skills. 

Ability to solve problems and make sound decisions. 

Detail-oriented with a high degree of accuracy. 

Ability to prioritize work in a fast-paced environment. 

Ability to work collaboratively with multiple departments. 

Ability to represent Missouri Military Academy in a professional manner at all times. 

Adaptability and willingness to assist in areas outside the canteen when operational needs require.

Physical Requirements:

Frequently stand and walk for extended periods. 

Lift and carry up to 40 pounds. 

Stock shelves and move merchandise. 

Bend, reach, kneel, and climb as necessary. 

Operate standard office and retail equipment.

This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by employees assigned to this position. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications. Missouri Military Academy reserves the right to modify or assign additional duties as operational needs require.