TL;DR intro
- Mission Proper, a community-focused café on the Old Mission Peninsula, is hiring baristas and a line cook.
- The café wants to maintain its operations amidst staff turnover as students return to school.
As summer comes to a close, local businesses on the Old Mission Peninsula are preparing for a transition. With college and high school students returning to classroom commitments, establishments are keen to fill the gaps left behind. Mission Proper, a cherished café known for its "Joy in a Cup," is one of those businesses actively seeking new team members to keep their operations thriving throughout the quieter fall months.
Located inside the Seven Hills Community Center, Mission Proper has garnered a loyal following in the community. As they bid farewell to their summer staff—and wish them well in their academic pursuits—the café is ramping up recruitment for several positions, including baristas and a line cook.
“Right now, we are looking for upbeat individuals who have a love for food and coffee,” said Jennifer Kuhar, co-founder and owner of Mission Proper. The café's emphasis on quality and community connection plays a significant role in their hiring process. For barista applicants, Kuhar emphasizes that experience is a plus, but a positive attitude and willingness to learn are just as important. “If you have heart and hustle, we want to train you to serve joy in a cup.”
The café is also on the hunt for a line cook. This position is crucial, as the cook will be responsible for crafting the establishment's breakfast and lunch offerings. A kitchen background is necessary, while an interest in coffee is a bonus. Mission Proper aims to deliver delicious, nourishing dishes that resonate with their focus on community engagement.
Kuhar highlighted the urgency of this recruitment. “If I can’t find additional staff, I may be forced to close on more days than I’d like,” she noted. This sentiment reflects a broader trend affecting cafes and restaurants—many establishments are navigating staffing shortages while trying to maintain a high level of service and community participation.
Mission Proper isn’t just a café; it's a social hub where community members gather over expertly brewed coffee or homemade snacks. Kuhar is optimistic about filling positions with locals who understand the café’s ethos. “I believe the residents of Old Mission Peninsula want to see us flourish,” she expressed.
The café encourages individuals from various backgrounds, including retirees or those looking for meaningful work, to apply. “You don’t have to be young to work here,” Kuhar affirmed. For potential employees who may have long dreamed of working as a barista or sharing their baking skills, this could be an excellent opportunity.
The café's appeal extends beyond its menu. With a focus on mental well-being, the culture fosters an environment where everyone feels valued, a vital aspect in today’s job market. According to a recent LinkedIn Workforce Report, workers today prioritize workplace culture and community engagement alongside traditional benefits, indicating a shift in how people view career opportunities.
In Missouri alone, employment in food services and drink establishments has been recovering steadily since the pandemic, with the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reporting job openings in the hospitality sector remain robust. They listed over 1.7 million openings in December 2023, showcasing the ongoing demand for skilled workers.
Interested individuals can reach out to Jennifer via email at jennifer@missionproper.co. Along with details about their own experiences and interests, applicants are encouraged to share their passion for being part of the Mission Proper team.