Carnation Canteen
This is a hands-on role, perfect for someone who thrives on the floor and brings warmth, calm, and confidence to every service. You'll help manage daily operations, support the team, and ensure a consistently high standard of hospitality-stepping into the Manager's shoes when needed.
ABOUT US
Carnation Canteen is a cosy 30-seat restaurant in the heart of Fitzroy. Our menu is loosely Mediterranean, drawing inspiration from Italian, Greek, Spanish, and French traditions, and a curated, ever-evolving wine list. With a tight-knit team of seven, we focus on thoughtful service, delicious food, and creating a relaxed yet refined dining experience. We're now on the lookout for a Restaurant Supervisor (2IC) to support our Restaurant Manager and help lead the front-of-house team.
THE ROLE
As second-in-charge, you'll be an essential part of our leadership team. This is a hands-on role, perfect for someone who thrives on the floor and brings warmth, calm, and confidence to every service. You'll help manage daily operations, support the team, and ensure a consistently high standard of hospitality—stepping into the Manager's shoes when needed.
Key Responsibilities:
- Support the Restaurant Manager in the day-to-day running of the venue
- Take charge in the absence of the Restaurant Manager
- Lead the floor during service, including opening and closing procedures
- Offer warm, knowledgeable and confident hospitality to guests
- Share menu and wine knowledge with guests, including pairing recommendations
- Maintain service standards and ensure the venue is clean and well-presented
- Liaise with the kitchen to ensure smooth service between FOH and BOH
- Train and mentor junior team members
ABOUT YOU
- Minimum 2 years' experience in a similar role (Supervisor, Assistant Manager, or Senior FOH)
- Comfortable leading a small team in a fast-paced, intimate setting
- Calm under pressure, with excellent communication and problem-solving skills
- Professional, proactive and team-focused
- Strong wine knowledge, or a keen interest in developing it. WSET Level II and higher preferred.
- Current RSA certification (Victoria)
- Experience with Lightspeed is a plus
WHAT WE OFFER
- Opportunities for growth in leadership and wine knowledge
- Clear communication from managers and leaders
- Fair pay, breaks, and scheduling — and flexibility where possible
- A culture where feedback goes both ways
- Mentorship, learning opportunities, and space to grow
- A safe and inclusive workplace — no tolerance for discrimination
- A team that has your back when things get busy, messy, or hard