elena chavez
Alamogordo,NM
Summary
Dedicated Customer Service Specialist providing skills to prioritize and multi-task in fast-paced working environment. Successfully works as part of team to reach personal and business goals. Known for successfully handling escalated customer support issues.
Overview
21
21
years of professional experience
Work History
Customer Service Rep/ Cashier Pm Shift Lead
Doughboys AkA Glass Nickel Pizza Co
Madison , WI
07.2017 - 08.2024
- Resolved customer complaints promptly and efficiently.
- Engaged in conversation with customers to understand needs, resolve issues and answer product questions.
- Answered customer inquiries and provided accurate information regarding products and services.
- Strengthened customer retention by offering discount options.
- Provided accurate information about products and services to customers.
- Used approved scripts to de-escalate angry customers during telephone interactions.
- Liaised between customers and retail buyers to expedite orders and meet customer demands.
- Resolved complex problems by working with other departments to provide solutions that meet customer needs.
Food Service Worker
Madison Metropolitan School District
Madison/ Monona, WI
03.2014 - 09.2017
- Acquired new skills to support team and further accommodate customer needs.
- Wiped down tables and removed trash and dirty plates to provide clean, welcoming dining environment.
- Gathered ingredients and cleaned and cut food items to prep recipes.
- Prepared beverages such as coffee, tea, soda.
- Stored perishable food items in freezer or refrigerator to protect from spoilage.
- Used proper cleaning supplies and methods to disinfect counters where raw meat, poultry, fish and eggs had been prepared.
- Greeted customers upon arrival in the dining area.
- Replenished condiments at customer tables as needed.
- Maintained order and cleanliness of work areas to conform with health codes.
- Cleaned kitchen areas, equipment and utensils.
- Filled and served various beverages for customers.
- Operated kitchen equipment in alignment with OSHA protocols and manufacturer instructions.
- Operated cash register to process cash, check, and credit card transactions.
- Explained food preparation methods and ingredients to enable patrons with food allergies to make educated decisions.
- Followed established cash handling procedures when collecting payment from customers.
- Maintained accurate records of sales transactions for end-of-day reports.
- Maintained clean and orderly appearance throughout kitchen and dining area.
- Maintained safe food handling practices to prevent germ spread.
- Maintained professional demeanor during interactions with customers and co-workers.
- Stocked supplies such as food, dishes, utensils, and cleaning materials.
- Maintained high standards of customer service during high-volume work shifts and fast-paced operations.
- Performed opening and closing duties such as setting up workstations with necessary supplies.
- Assembled and served meals according to specific guest requirements.
- Coordinated with suppliers to ensure timely delivery of fresh ingredients.
- Assisted with unloading deliveries from suppliers into storage areas.
- Responded promptly to customer inquiries regarding menu items or special requests.
- Helped management stay on top of supply needs by sharing information about low or spoiled inventory.
- Mopped floors and cleaned walk-in refrigerators and storage areas to maintain hygienic, sanitized work area.
- Set up, restocked and cleaned dining areas.
- Oversaw inventory in buffet and reported replacement needs to kitchen management.
- Performed variety of duties related to food service.
- Prevented spoilage and cross-contamination by storing food in designated containers and storage areas.
- Washed, peeled and cut fruits and vegetables to prepare for cooking or serving.
- Checked temperatures of freezers, refrigerators and heating equipment to ensure proper functioning.
- Prepared workstations with ingredients and tools to increase efficiency.
- Welcomed and thanked guests to demonstrate appreciation for patronage.
- Monitored inventory to keep adequate stock of food items and supplies.
- Delivered food orders promptly and accurately to guests tables.
- Received food orders from individuals and explained offerings.
- Organized take-out orders for customers who requested them.
- Adhered to safety procedures when handling sharp objects or hazardous materials.
- Rotated inventory to reduce waste and optimize freshness.
- Followed staff performance and service standards to deliver consistent and positive customer experiences.
- Packaged and bagged cooked food and prepared items.
- Operated dishwashing machines safely and efficiently.
- Served meals to customers in a friendly and courteous manner.
- Refilled condiments, napkins and server workstations.
- Cleaned and sanitized work areas, equipment, utensils, dishes, and silverware.
- Followed recipes and customer requests to prepare meals.
- Utilized point-of-sale systems for taking orders from customers.
- Directed patrons to restrooms and other amenities within facility.
- Followed food safety regulations pertaining to sanitation, food handling and storage.
- Prepared variety of foods according to exact instructions and recipe specifications.
- Performed opening and closing duties as assigned by management.
- Ensured that all foods were prepared according to health department regulations.
- Collaborated with team to deliver timely service of items.
- Properly stored all leftover food items after each shift.
- Complied with company service standards and adhered to inventory and cash control procedures.
- Assisted with inventory management and restocking supplies as needed.
- Ensured all dishes were presented attractively before serving to customers.
- Made meals in accordance with company standards and requirements.
- Monitored temperatures of prepared food and cold-storage areas.
- Maintained cleanliness standards for all service areas including dining room, kitchen and storage areas.
- Chopped ingredients and prepped food items ahead of lunchtime and dinner rush periods.
- Assisted in the preparation of food items according to recipes and instructions.
- Monitored food temperatures to ensure safety and quality standards were met.
- Monitored inventory levels of food items used during meal services.
- Contributed innovative ideas and solutions to enhance team performance and outcomes.
- Utilized advanced technical skills and expertise to troubleshoot complex problems and implement solutions.
- Maintained updated knowledge through continuing education and advanced training.
- Utilized various software and tools to streamline processes and optimize performance.
- Conducted system analysis and testing to identify and resolve technical issues or inefficiencies.
- Worked effectively in team environments to make the workplace more productive.
- Conducted testing of software and systems to ensure quality and reliability.
- Exceeded customer satisfaction by finding creative solutions to problems.
- Operated equipment and machinery according to safety guidelines.
- Managed inventory and supplies to ensure materials were available when needed.
- Managed time effectively to ensure tasks were completed on schedule and deadlines were met.
- Collaborated closely with team members to achieve project objectives and meet deadlines.
- Worked with cross-functional teams to achieve goals.
R.A. Activity Director, Kitchen Manager, RA,med Pa
Brookdale Senior Living
Sun Prairie, Wisconsin
03.2003 - 03.2017
- Provided one-on-one support to those who required additional assistance.
- Stored and retrieved vehicles, radios and ride components.
- Trained and managed assistants and delegated tasks for staff members.
- Planned and published calendar of events for facility.
- Assisted residents with physical activities such as walks and exercise classes.
- Consulted with staff and other professionals to discuss activities.
- Inspected rides, games and vehicles to detect wear and damage.
- Talked to coworkers using computers, radios and other electronic devices.
- Assigned tasks and work hours to staff.
- Operated and explained proper use of mechanical equipment to employees.
- Resolved customer complaints regarding worker performance or services rendered.
- Supervised volunteers and provided guidance when necessary.
- Designed programs to encourage entertainment, relaxation, and socialization for guests and personnel.
- Worked closely with families to ensure that their loved ones were receiving appropriate care.
- Wrote and presented strategies for recreational facility programming using customer or employee data.
- Explained rules and regulations of facilities and entertainment attractions to customers.
- Lead weekly outings to local attractions such as parks and museums.
- Administered first-aid and offered emergency assistance to injured or ill participants.
- Scheduled and coordinated events and activities.
- Ensured compliance with all state regulations regarding safety protocols and infection control measures.
- Facilitated group discussions on topics such as current events, health issues, and hobbies.
- Cleaned equipment and areas of amusement parks, cruise ships or other recreational facilities.
- Adapted existing activities or developed new ones to meet the changing needs of participants.
- Developed individualized plans for each resident based on their interests and abilities.
- Trained workers in company procedures or policies.
- Planned, organized or led exercise routines, athletic events or arts and crafts.
- Handled budgetary concerns, keeping activities affordable.
- Created monthly activity calendars with a variety of recreational options.
- Maintained records of activities and analyzed feedback from participants.
- Coordinated calendars, shifts and activity schedules with staff.
- Maintained accurate records of participant attendance and progress notes.
- Conducted assessments of residents' cognitive functioning levels prior to enrollment in programs.
- Analyzed customer feedback to identify areas for improvement in services offered.
- Communicated with customers to convey information about events or activities.
- Monitored the progress of participants in order to assess program effectiveness.
- Collaborated with other departments to coordinate interdisciplinary programming.
- Calculated and recorded department expenses and revenue.
- Delegated work to staff, setting priorities and goals.
- Encouraged socialization among residents by organizing group games or outings.
- Developed and implemented engaging activities for seniors in long-term care facilities.
- Designed and led activities in crafts, music and sports.
- Organized services such as transportation, event security and catering.
- Instructed residents in recreational activities to meet specific psychological and physical needs.
- Participated in community outreach initiatives aimed at promoting senior wellness.
- Administered first aid in emergency situations.
- Negotiated contracts with performers, vendors and other service providers.
- Organized events such as holiday parties, bingo nights, and movie screenings.
- Oversaw workforce schedules and allocated resources in order to achieve project goals.
- Provided education about healthy lifestyles through lectures and workshops.
- Interacted with patients and families by addressing questions and concerns.
- Coordinated transportation services for offsite activities when needed.
- Communicated clearly with coworkers using radio, phone and text to stay on top of operations needs.
- Planned programs of events or schedules of activities.
- Performed regular maintenance checks on equipment used during activities.
- Provided support and guidance to colleagues to maintain a collaborative work environment.
- Conducted testing of software and systems to ensure quality and reliability.
- Worked effectively in team environments to make the workplace more productive.
- Worked successfully with diverse group of coworkers to accomplish goals and address issues related to our products and services.
- Assisted with customer requests and answered questions to improve satisfaction.
- Recognized by management for providing exceptional customer service.
- Managed time effectively to ensure tasks were completed on schedule and deadlines were met.
- Utilized various software and tools to streamline processes and optimize performance.
- Managed household errands and other essential duties.
- Managed inventory and supplies to ensure materials were available when needed.
- Utilized advanced technical skills and expertise to troubleshoot complex problems and implement solutions.
- Collaborated closely with team members to achieve project objectives and meet deadlines.
- Achieved cost-savings by developing functional solutions to problems.
- Worked with cross-functional teams to achieve goals.
- Prioritized and organized tasks to efficiently accomplish service goals.
- Provided excellent service and attention to customers when face-to-face or through phone conversations.
- Operated equipment and machinery according to safety guidelines.
- Conducted routine maintenance and repairs on mechanical systems and industrial equipment.
- Conducted system analysis and testing to identify and resolve technical issues or inefficiencies.
- Contributed innovative ideas and solutions to enhance team performance and outcomes.
- Supervised food production processes ensuring high quality standards were met throughout each stage of preparation.
- Created weekly schedules for kitchen staff members based on anticipated business volume.
- Interviewed, hired and supervised back of house staff to clean tables, remove dishes, take food to tables and assist servers and bartenders.
- Maintained accurate records of food costs, labor costs, waste management and other related expenses.
- Monitored sanitation practices to ensure that all employees adhere to health department regulations.
- Collaborated with chefs to create innovative recipes that utilized fresh ingredients from local suppliers.
- Oversaw food preparation, production and presentation according to quality standards.
- Assisted staff by serving food and beverages or bussing tables.
- Explained goals and expectations required of trainees.
- Analyzed financial data including sales reports, budgeting information and cost analysis reports to make operational decisions.
- Reviewed vendor invoices for accuracy before authorizing payment transactions.
- Consistently maintained high levels of cleanliness, organization, storage and sanitation of food and beverage products to ensure quality.
- Promoted an atmosphere of teamwork among kitchen staff members by fostering open communication between team members.
- Developed and implemented kitchen policies, procedures and quality standards.
- Motivated kitchen staff by establishing goals to increase productivity and quality.
- Oversaw meal preparation and monitored food handling to encourage safety.
- Supervised activities of dining room staff to maintain service levels and support guest needs.
- Trained front-of-house staff on restaurant policies and procedures, guest service techniques and communication skills to promote positive experiences.
- Conducted regular staff meetings to discuss menu changes, safety protocols and performance reviews.
- Provided leadership, insight and mentoring to newly hired employees to supply knowledge of various company programs.
- Inspected equipment regularly to identify necessary repairs or replacements.
- Resolved customer complaints in a timely manner while maintaining a positive attitude towards guests at all times.
- Distributed food to service staff for prompt delivery to customers.
- Ensured compliance with all applicable local, state and federal laws governing food service operations.
- Developed and implemented strategies to enhance team performance, improve processes and boost results.
- Trained new employees on kitchen procedures and policies.
- Assisted restaurant owners with pricing by providing ingredient costs and portioning information.
- Performed weekly inventories of food items stored in refrigerators or freezers.
- Kept kitchen equipment properly functioning by following manufacturer's operating instructions and educating staff on proper use.
- Trained workers in food preparation, money handling, and cleaning roles to facilitate restaurant operations.
- Planned kitchen staff schedules to maximize coverage and encourage collaboration.
- Utilized various preparation and cooking methods to create menu items in accordance with recipes.
- Reconciled daily transactions, balanced cash registers and deposited restaurant's earnings at bank.
- Oversaw daily operations of the kitchen including meal preparation, cooking methods, portion sizes and plate presentation.
- Maximized team performance by training new employees on proper food handling and restaurant protocols.
- Ensured compliance with health and safety regulations.
- Coached staff on strategies to enhance performance and improve customer relations.
- Evaluated employee performance through observation of work habits, attitude toward customers and adherence to company policies.
- Inspected restrooms and dining and serving areas to foster cleanliness and proper setup.
- Promoted safe working conditions by monitoring safety procedures and equipment.
- Provided feedback during tasting sessions to help refine existing dishes or develop new ones.
- Worked with vendors to establish strong relationships and maintain proper inventory supplies.
- Used learning tools and programs to develop and maintain knowledge of food products, promotions and sales functions.
- Trained employees on cooking techniques, safety standards and performance strategies.
- Circulated within assigned areas to assess and address customer needs, effectively prioritizing tasks during peak hours.
- Implemented surface and equipment schedules and standards to maintain clean, neat and sanitized kitchen.
- Assisted in developing menus according to seasonal availability of ingredients as well as customer preferences.
- Worked in close collaboration with team members to ensure customers received high-quality service.
- Trained new kitchen staff on proper food handling techniques and safety regulations.
- Received, organized and rotated paper goods and food ingredients.
- Checked with guests to get feedback on food served, resolve issues, bring additional items and refill beverages.
- Trained new employees to perform duties.
- Resolved problems or concerns to satisfaction of involved parties.
- Inspected dining and serving areas for cleanliness and proper setup.
- Managed employee relations by providing guidance on job duties as well as disciplinary actions when needed.
- Ordered ingredients and supplies to maintain adequate inventory levels for the kitchen.
- Oversaw inventory and ordered ingredients to restock freezers, fridges and pantry.
- Operated a variety of machinery and tools safely and efficiently.
- Maintained updated knowledge through continuing education and advanced training.
- Demonstrated strong problem-solving skills, resolving issues efficiently and effectively.
- Updated and maintained databases with current information.
- Identified needs of customers promptly and efficiently.
- Promoted high customer satisfaction by resolving problems with knowledgeable and friendly service.
- Conducted comprehensive research and data analysis to support strategic planning and informed decision-making.
- Completed routine maintenance and repair.
Education
High School Diploma -
Sun Prairie Senior High
Sun Prairie, Wisconsin01-1999
Skills
- Customer service
- Conflict resolution
- Product knowledge
- Point of sale
- Order processing
- Inventory management
- Team collaboration
- Customer relationship management
- Communication skills
- Time management
- Problem solving
- Data entry
- Workplace safety
- Customer feedback analysis
- Staff training
- High-energy attitude
- Account management
- Retail store support
- Empathy and patience
- Customer relationship management (CRM)
- Problem resolution
- Positive and professional
- Decision-making
- Document control
- Typing proficiency
- Account updating
- International sales support
- Customer satisfaction measurement
- Technical support
- Service upselling
- Coordination
- Call center procedures
- Customer relations
- Process optimization
- Project management
- Senior leadership support
- Customer consulting
- Report creation
- Call center experience
- De-escalation techniques
- Paperwork processing
- Tracking complaints
- Member account management
- Verbal and written communication
- Retail sales customer service
- Scheduling
- Product sales
- Schedule mastery
- Call management
- Adaptability and flexibility
- Brand representation
- Building rapport
- Researching
- Assertiveness
- Skype
- Store maintenance
- Live chat support
- Follow-up skills
- Hospitality and accommodation
- Strategic sales
- Research
- Data collection
- Delivery scheduling
Timeline
Customer Service Rep/ Cashier Pm Shift Lead
Doughboys AkA Glass Nickel Pizza Co
07.2017 - 08.2024
Food Service Worker
Madison Metropolitan School District
03.2014 - 09.2017
R.A. Activity Director, Kitchen Manager, RA,med Pa
Brookdale Senior Living
03.2003 - 03.2017
High School Diploma -
Sun Prairie Senior High