Employment - Cambridge

 

Formaggio Kitchen has been an institution in Cambridge, Massachusetts for over 40 years–“a gourmand’s paradise” doubling as a neighborhood grocer. Nationally, we are best known for our cheese selection, which includes many exclusive items imported directly from farms in Europe. Locally, we are equally well known for our kitchen and bakery production including sandwiches, panini and nightly dinners as well as cakes, cookies and a variety of other sweets – all made in house, from scratch and using the best (often local) ingredients. We also stock a wide range of other delicious foodstuffs, including: charcuterie, produce, baked goods, prepared foods, coffee, tea, chocolates, bread, sweets, honey, preserves, wine, beer, olive oil, vinegar and other pantry staples.

We offer a dynamic work environment that both challenges and rewards those who have the necessary skills and passion to make the team. We strive to hire people with a love of food, old-world work ethic, capacity for teamwork and a drive to provide exceptional customer service. Benefits include health insurance, 401K with generous employer matching, paid vacation, an amazing opportunity to learn about food and a great team of coworkers.

Please email resumes or enquires to employment@formaggiocambridge.com or give us a call at +1-617-354-4750.

Current Openings 

 

HURON VILLAGE LOCATION

 

Catering Administrator

Passionate about food and looking for daytime hours? Join our catering team! Our catering team produces beautifully arranged platters and food made from our internationally sourced, specialty ingredients, and locally sourced produce and meats. From bountiful cheese platters to decadent desserts, we aim to provide our customers with an exceptional culinary experience.

We are looking for an organizational rock-star to join our team as a catering administrator. The ideal candidate is a team-player and a quick learner with enthusiasm for food, great attention to detail, and an excellent work ethic. Top notch organizational skills, exceptional customer service and experience with Microsoft Office and Google tools are a must. This is a high-paced position and requires great attention to detail.

Daily Operational Tasks will include:

  • Maintaining a digital order log to provide clear instructions to the kitchen team

  • Daily contact with catering clients and the ability to help guide them through the event planning process. Strong knowledge of our catering abilities.

  • Collaborating with the Catering Manager to assure organization and timeliness of each order. 

  • Ordering additional bread from local bakeries when needed and tracking orders

  • Ability to handle and organize large volumes of requests; especially during the Fall/Holiday and Graduation seasons.

  • Working with other administrative staff in the office to assure each order is scheduled for delivery or pick up,

The most important requirements for success in this role are:

  • Excellent customer service

  • Effective communication

  • Great problem solving skills and ability to think on their feet

  • Great sense of urgency and organization

  • Passionate and curious about food and hospitality.

  • Capacity to work with a variety of personalities and strengthen the sense of camaraderie and teamwork

  • Prior experience in a retail or hospitality setting is preferred

Availability for shifts; Monday - Friday  8am – 5pm.

Formaggio Kitchen offers a dynamic work environment with a focus on love of food, teamwork and providing the best products and service to our customers. Benefits include company health insurance with partial premium coverage, 401K with generous employer match, paid vacation, an amazing opportunity to learn about food and a great team of coworkers.

COMPENSATION: $45-55k DOE

 

Assistant Wine Buyer

Formaggio Kitchen is looking for a motivated, self-starting, hard-working food lover, with a thirst for knowledge to join our staff. We are looking for dedicated individuals who want to be at Formaggio Kitchen long term. Applicants must have holiday and weekend availability. 

This full-time, salaried position will be responsible for wine buying (with the support of our Senior Wine Buyer), in store wine tastings, retail and administrative support, and staff wine training as well as cheesemonger retail service. Time is split about 50% wine and 50% cheese counter. Candidates must have a minimum of 2 years of industry experience and a knowledge of natural and biodynamic wines is preferred. A passion to learn about both cheese and wine is essential as is a willingness to do a little bit of everything. This position involves regularly moving cases of wine up and downstairs.

Daily Responsibilities:

  • Direct store operations and lead shifts
  • Task, develop, and (when necessary) discipline staff to build a strong team in junction with the GM
  • Serve as a point of contact for store issues, customer service, and emergencies
  • Purchasing

Skills and Experience

  • Prior cheesemonger experience required
  • At least one year in a supervisory or managerial capacity in a specialty food retail or wholesale environment preferred
  • History of providing excellent customer service
  • Exceptional work ethic
  • Equally exceptional skills in working people of various backgrounds
  • Ability to handle multiple tasks efficiently
  • Passion for food
  • Drive to learn the extensive selection we have to offer

Additional qualities we are looking for:

  • Natural problem solver
  • Highly organized
  • Exceptional attention to detail
  • Eager to learn and grow professionally
  • Works well under pressure
  • Experience with retail POS systems / computers
  • Being a well-rounded team member with knowledge of the entire store operations

We are looking not simply for a qualified person, but someone with the aptitude and energy to contribute to our company going forward. A combination of past achievements and work experience is very important, but equally important is a real desire to continue to learn and improve on your skills and abilities going forward.

 

COMPENSATION

 

this position is : salaried, varies DOE, $45k - $50k

 

Kitchen Production Assistant

Seeking a production assistant for a small but thriving kitchen with expanding demands.

Hours: Full-Time; Flexible

Daily duties may include:

  • Inventory and re-stock of prepared foods
  • Producing sauces and dips in our refrigerated “grab and go” retail case
  • Producing in high volume staple housemade snacks such as pita chips and crostini
  • Creating an assortment of green and deli salads for our lunch service

Examples of production tasks include:

  • Basic prep (breaking down produce, cutting onions etc.)
  • Following recipes to create basic sauces, dips and salads
  • Assembly of entrees, packaging of dips, spreads, salads and other retail products

Solid knife skills are a plus.

Applicant must be detail-oriented, good at following instructions, and a good communicator. A sense of urgency is a must.

No experience required; we are willing to train the right candidate. Additional responsibility and growth opportunities are available for excelling hires.

COMPENSATION

This position is hourly, $20.00.

 

Butcher Counter Staff/Meat Cutter

We are currently seeking a full-time butcher and meat cutters to join our kitchen team. This individual will join a professional team committed to excellence and consistency within a fast-paced retail setting. Our butcher counter works primarily with whole animals; this position will be an opportunity to learn whole-animal butchery. Candidates are not expected to have mastered this in prior experience.

The butcher counter staff will assist customers in purchasing meat and maintain the quality and appearance of the butcher case. In addition, the staff will organize and clean the work area and walk-in fridge. Staff will be expected to know the different cuts and sausages we carry and make recommendations based on that knowledge, as well as modifying cuts to customer specifications.

The ideal candidate will have at least one year’s butcher counter experience, but we are also willing to teach the right person. Candidates will possess a strong work ethic and take direction well. Great customer service, communication skills, knife skills, and the ability to work cleanly and quickly are a must. Successful candidates will also demonstrate attention to detail and willingness to learn. ServSafe certification is a plus. Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds.

Formaggio Kitchen offers a dynamic work environment with a focus on love of food, teamwork and providing the best products and service to our customers. Benefits include company health insurance with partial premium coverage, staff discount, staff meal, an amazing opportunity to learn about food and a great team of coworkers. This position is based out of our flagship Huron Village location, in a brand new space with brand new equipment.

COMPENSATION

this position is : hourly, varies DOE, $18.00 - $20.00

 

Driver

Formaggio Kitchen is looking for a full-time driver to facilitate transportation of inventory, catering and gift deliveries, and distribution between our locations. Ideally, the driver would work Tuesday-Saturday, but a Monday-Friday schedule could be discussed. Schedule would be 9 am-5pm or 10am-6 pm. We would consider a part-time hire on a temporary basis, but regular availability is required. Schedules are delivered via OptimoRoute driver scheduling app. Tasks including loading and unloading, liaising with customers and other staff, following traffic laws, delivering items in a timely manner, and communicating with our dispatch team for all issues and delays.

Knowledge of local Cambridge and Boston areas is preferred. A clean driving record and the ability to drive safely and respectfully in varied weather and traffic conditions are critical aspects of consideration for this position. Also important are strong organizational and communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work collaboratively with all members of our team. We expect that our driver represents our company with the highest level of customer service and decorum.

Candidates must have:

  • Driver’s license and five years’ clean driving record
  • Ability to lift 50 pounds
  • Ability to push carts up to 100 pounds
  • Ability to use carts, pallet jacks, forklift, etc. to move inventory
  • Ability to use stairs while lifting

COMPENSATION

This position is hourly, varies DOE, $18.00 - $20.00.

 

Cheesemonger

We are looking for full-time experienced cheesemongers to work closely with existing staff to learn the ropes and help us provide delicious cheese and exceptional service to our customers. These positions are available at our Huron Ave. location. A full-time Cheesemonger work schedule requires flexibility to work nights and weekends. Formaggio Kitchen offers a unique work environment with great staff, fantastic customers and an opportunity for challenge and learning every day. Benefits for eligible employees include a staff discount, health insurance contribution, 401K and paid vacation.

Skills and Experience

  • Cheesemonger experience a plus, but not absolutely required
  • History of providing excellent customer service
  • Exceptional work ethic
  • Equally exceptional skills in working people of various backgrounds
  • Ability to handle multiple tasks efficiently
  • Passion for food
  • Drive to learn the extensive selection we have to offer

Additional qualities we are looking for:

  • Natural problem solver
  • Highly organized
  • Exceptional attention to detail
  • Eager to learn and grow professionally
  • Works well under pressure
  • Experience with retail POS systems / computers

We are looking not simply for a qualified person, but someone with the aptitude and energy to contribute to our company going forward. A combination of past achievements and work experience is very important, but equally important is a real desire to continue to learn and improve on your skills and abilities going forward.

COMPENSATION

Competitive salary and benefits based on experience. This position is hourly, varies DOE, $17.00 - $19.00.

 

Produce Manager

Our produce department works with many small farms both in California and within New England. We focus on organic and sustainably grown fruits and vegetables, and work hard to source the best produce available and sell it in the best condition possible.

We are looking for someone to lead our produce team. This position is both the lead buyer for produce as well as the supervisor for the produce staff. This position also collaborates with the kitchen and bakery teams to minimize loss and consolidate orders.

Typical daily tasks include stocking, culling, receiving deliveries, placing orders and handling vendor credits, assisting customers with produce questions and special orders, and tasking employees.

Qualities we are looking for:

  • Passionate about good produce
  • Loves providing exceptional customer service
  • Shrewd decision making and creative problem solving, to keep produce loss low and displays bountiful
  • Conscientious and hands-on, to order successfully
  • Team player who establishes rapport with our various departments and contributes actively to the store management team
  • Curious and reflective, to bring new ideas and products to the department while keeping true to the principles of the business and relationships with our existing vendors
  • Good aesthetic sense and merchandising
  • Communicates assertively, respectfully, and liberally

Ideal candidates will have familiarity with retail produce, cooking, or farming as well as a drive to learn more. We are looking for someone interested in motivating this team, contributing to Formaggio Kitchen leadership as a whole, and growing the produce department.

This is a full-time position. Applicants must have full time holiday and weekend availability. This is a very physically demanding position. Must be able to lift 50 pounds regularly.

COMPENSATION this position is : salaried, varies DOE, $45K - $55K

 

Bakery Manager

We are looking for full-time Bakery Manager to lead our front-of-house pastry counter team. The pastry counter serves a daily menu of housemade breakfast items, desserts, coffee drinks, and imported confections. In addition to managing and training the other customer service staff, the manager works closely with the bakers to represent our ever-growing bakery department according to their vision.

Responsibilities include:

  • Daily hands-on customer service, leading the busiest shifts of the week
  • Implement procedures on the team to uphold high standards of customer service, cleanliness, and product quality
  • Organizational tasks
  • Supervising a team of 2-8 people; delegating tasks to other team members
  • Executing the vision of the Head Baker
  • Merchandising and other ideas to promote the bakery department and boost sale
  • Purchasing retail items from domestic vendors of chocolate, candy, and sweets

Ideal Candidates will have:

  • At least one year in a supervisory or managerial capacity in a specialty food retail or wholesale environment preferred
  • History of providing excellent customer service
  • Exceptional work ethic
  • Equally exceptional skills in working with people of various backgrounds
  • Ability to handle multiple tasks efficiently
  • Passion for food

Additional qualities we are looking for:Natural problem solver

  • Highly organized
  • Exceptional attention to detail
  • The ability to anticipate and resolve issues/problems on a proactive basis
  • Task managing and prioritization in a fast paced environment
  • Excellent collaborative skills to work in partnership with department leads, store management and customers
  • Experience with retail POS systems / computers
  • Demonstrated strong work ethic and on-time commitment

We are looking not simply for a qualified person, but someone with the aptitude and energy to contribute to our company going forward. This position has a great deal of growth potential including purchasing, travel and staff development. 

COMPENSATION

this position is : salaried, varies DOE, $45k - $55k

 

Floor Manager

We work hard to bring our customers the best products from around the world with exemplary service. Essential to this mission are the appearance of our shelves and the care given to our product stock. We are seeking a full-time Floor Manager to oversee our team of stockists and the receiving procedures for our Huron Ave. location.

Responsibilities include:

  • Training and managing team members who stock shelves and receive deliveries
  • Daily restocking of store shelves
  • Receiving shipments
  • Managing inventory with proper rotation, attention to expiration dates, and proper storage
  • Ensuring proper pricing and signage for displays
  • Organizing our back stock and requesting inventory from our warehouse
  • Communicating with our team of buyers about inventory needs
  • Designing new featured displays
  • Enforcing procedures
  • Overseeing routine store maintenance projects and inventory of store supplies

Skills include strong organizational and communication skills, attention to detail, the ability to direct others, and the ability to work collaboratively with all members of our team.

This is a very physically demanding position. Must be able to lift 50 pounds regularly.

One weekend shift is required. Extended vacation time may be taken any time except November and December. We ask for a one year commitment to this position.

COMPENSATION

this position is : salaried, varies DOE, $45k-$47k

 

Front of House Supervisor 

We currently have openings for front of house positions. The front of house team staffs the bread and bakery counters, maintains the appearance of the shop, assists with store operations, and provides our customers with a smooth and pleasant shopping experience. FOH staff are expected to become knowledgeable about store inventory and producers in order to field an array of customer requests. Key characteristics we are seeking include excellent customer service, thoughtful organization, effective communication, great team spirit, and strong work ethic. The ideal candidate is passionate and curious about food and hospitality. Prior experience in a retail or hospitality setting is preferred but not required. In this role, with time and by demonstrating accomplishments and dedication, there is room to grow into a member of our management and buying teams.

COMPENSATION

this position is : hourly, varies DOE, $16.00 - $18.00

 

Stockist

We work hard to bring our customers the best products from around the world with exemplary service. This work ethic is equally essential whether stocking shelves, mongering cheese or making deliveries. We are in need of a stock keeper with full-time availability Monday through Friday. There are opportunities as well for part-time and weekend work, but regular availability is required. Tasks will include daily restocking of store shelves, receiving shipments of product to our shop, as well as assisting with order taking and running as needed.

Also important are strong organizational and communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work collaboratively with all members of our team.

COMPENSATION

this position is : hourly, varies DOE, $17-19

 

Pastry Counter Associate

We are looking for hospitality rock-stars to staff our pastry counter. The pastry counter supports our bakers by packaging and selling all of our fresh baked goods. The pastry counter also makes and serves coffee, receives deliveries of sweets to supplement our in-house pastries, and acts as morning cashiers for our “breakfast bar.”

Staff are expected to become knowledgeable about our bakery menu and store inventory in order to field an array of customer requests. Key characteristics we are seeking include excellent customer service, thoughtful organization, effective communication, great team spirit, and strong work ethic. 

The ideal candidate is passionate and curious about food (particularly sweets) and hospitality.

Prior experience in a cafe, retail, or hospitality setting is preferred but not required. By demonstrating accomplishments and dedication, there is room to grow into a member of our retail buying or leadership teams.

Compensation

this position is : hourly, varies DOE, $16.00 - $18.00

 

 

SOUTH END BOSTON LOCATION

 

Weekend Cashier

We are looking for a cashier who can work a minimum of one shift on either Saturdays or Sundays. There is also opportunity for more hours during the weekdays. As a member our team you will be responsible for:

  • Accurately ringing up customer orders and bag them.
  • Learning about our product selection so as to help answer customer questions.
  • Keeping the front station clean and organized.
  • Pricing, packaging, and stocking dry goods.
  • Making, bottling, and labeling housemade iced teas.  
  • Setting up in the morning and/or closing up at night under a manager's supervision. 

We offer competitive hourly pay, meals, and a staff discount. Email Julie at julie@formaggiosouthend.com with a current resume and a cover letter describing why you’d like to work with us.

 

Sunday Dishwasher

We are looking for someone that can work at least 3pm to 6pm but could start earlier if desired. Duties include:

  • Cleaning, drying, and putting away dishes, pots, and pans. 
  • Clean floors in kitchen and in shop. 
  • Clean bathroom.
  • Take out trash and recycling.  

We offer competitive hourly pay, meals, and a staff discount. Email Julie at julie@formaggiosouthend.com with a current resume and a cover letter describing why you’d like to work with us.

 

 

KENDALL SQUARE LOCATION

 

Sandwich Maker/Kitchen Production

We work hard to bring our customers the best products from around the world with exemplary service. This work ethic is equally essential whether stocking shelves, mongering cheese, or preparing food. We are in need of a full-time sandwich maker and kitchen prep person. This job requires someone who can work five days a week Monday – Friday and sometimes Tuesday – Saturday if needed. Hours will typically be between 7:30am – 3:00pm.

Primary responsibilities include making sandwiches for sale in the store and for our catering department. As time allows, there is opportunity to learn from our kitchen team by helping prep meals and pantry items. Prior experience working in a sandwich shop or retail kitchen is strongly preferred. Our ideal candidate will be hard working, dependable and fun to work with.

If you think you have the desire and skills, we’d love to talk with you! Send our hiring team your updated resume and a short cover letter explaining your skills, background and why you think you’d be a good fit.

 

Cheesemonger

 We are looking for full-time and part-tme experienced cheesemongers to work closely with existing staff to learn the ropes and help us provide delicious cheese and exceptional service to our customers.

A full-time Cheesemonger work schedule requires flexibility to work nights and weekends. Formaggio Kitchen offers a unique work environment with great staff, fantastic customers and an opportunity for challenge and learning every day. Benefits for eligible employees include a staff discount, health insurance contribution, 401K and paid vacation.

Skills and Experience

  • At least one year working in a specialty food retail or wholesale environment
  • Cheesemonger experience preferred
  • History of providing excellent customer service
  • Exceptional work ethic
  • Equally exceptional skills in working people of various backgrounds and opinions
  • Ability to handle multiple tasks efficiently

Additional qualities we are looking for:

  • Natural problem solver
  • Highly organized
  • Exceptional attention to detail
  • Eager to learn and grow professionally
  • Works well under pressure
  • Experience with retail POS systems / computers

We are looking not simply for a qualified person, but someone with the aptitude and energy to contribute to our company going forward. A combination of past achievements and work experience is very important, but equally important is a real desire to continue to learn and improve on your skills and abilities going forward.

Competitive salary and benefits based on experience. If interested, please contact us with a cover letter and resume.

 

Front of House

We currently have openings for full-time and part-time front of house positions. The front of house team staffs the bread and bakery counters, maintains the appearance of the shop, assists with store operations, and provides our customers with a smooth and pleasant shopping experience. FOH staff are expected to become knowledgeable about store inventory and producers in order to field an array of customer requests. Key characteristics we are seeking include excellent customer service, thoughtful organization, effective communication, great team spirit, and strong work ethic. The ideal candidate is passionate and curious about food and hospitality. Prior experience in a retail or hospitality setting is preferred but not required. In this role, with time and by demonstrating accomplishments and dedication, there is room to grow into a member of our management and buying teams.

Send our hiring team your updated resume and a short cover letter explaining your skills, background and why you think you’d be a good fit.