Elijah Saldana
Savannah,GA
Summary
Dynamic and results-driven professional with extensive experience at Qdoba, excelling in customer service and teamwork. Proven ability to enhance customer satisfaction through effective communication and multitasking. Skilled in cash handling and food preparation, consistently maintaining high standards of cleanliness and safety. Recognized for fostering a positive work environment and training new team members.
Overview
6
6
years of professional experience
Work History
Crew Member
Qdoba
Atlanta, GA
05.2024 - 08.2024
- Worked front counter, drive-thru and other areas.
- Took orders, prepared meals, and collected payments.
- Demonstrated strong multitasking abilities, handling multiple orders simultaneously without compromising quality or efficiency.
- Worked well with teammates and accepted coaching from management team.
- Collaborated with team members to complete orders.
- Improved customer satisfaction by providing friendly and efficient service at the register.
- Cleaned and maintained all areas of restaurant to promote clean image.
- Provided excellent customer service by greeting customers and meeting quality expectations.
- Kept food preparation area, equipment, and utensils clean and sanitary.
- Provided exceptional customer service, addressing concerns or issues promptly and professionally.
- Promoted a positive work environment through effective communication and teamwork among staff members.
- Assisted other team members to achieve goals.
- Maintained high-quality food preparation standards, adhering to company guidelines for safety and cleanliness.
- Helped maintain a clean and welcoming dining area for customers, boosting overall satisfaction during their visit.
- Trained new team members on procedures, customer service, and sales techniques.
- Enhanced team productivity by maintaining a clean and organized workspace for crew members.
- Collaborated with fellow crew members for seamless shift transitions, ensuring smooth operations throughout the day.
- Became familiar with products to answer questions and make suggestions.
- Addressed guest needs, questions, or concerns to create optimum experience onboard.
- Operated cash register to ring up final bill and process various forms of payment.
- Prepared products following restaurant, health, and safety standards and procedures.
- Ensured accurate order fulfillment with diligent attention to details while assembling meals.
- Loaded dishwasher with china and thoroughly hand-washed dishes, pans and utensils to tidy up serving line.
- Kept pastry and dessert case stocked with fresh selections and arranged to entice orders.
- Observed customer purchases in line and differentiated between standard portions.
- Backed up servers by setting up trays and completing some food deliveries.
- Reconciled receipt totals, cash and credit payments to address shortages.
- Filled out daily shift log to record amount of food prepared, used and leftover.
- Maintained effective supply levels by monitoring and reordering food stock and dry goods.
- Prepared salads, soups and sandwiches for customers.
- Loaded food, dishes and utensils on carts and trays to transport from designated food preparation areas to designated tables.
- Prepared recipe ingredients by washing, peeling, cutting, and measuring.
- Completed milkshakes and ice cream desserts for customers.
- Documented customer orders and conveyed special requests to kitchen staff.
- Replenished serving stations with fresh food and cleaned up spills.
- Readied customers' take-out orders in secure bags with appropriate amounts of condiments, silverware and napkins.
- Properly labeled and stored food and fresh ingredients in cooler or freezer to optimize freshness.
- Replenished condiments, beverages, and supplies while maintaining cleanliness of service areas.
- Kept drawer balanced by accurately processing cash, credit and debit payments.
Assistant Store Manager
2nd Chance Toys
Woodstock, GA
02.2021 - 07.2024
- Managed cash registers efficiently, ensuring accurate transactions, balancing drawers daily, and minimizing discrepancies.
- Managed opening and closing procedures and recommended changes to enhance efficiency of daily activities.
- Enhanced store appearance for increased sales by maintaining cleanliness and implementing strategic merchandise displays.
- Rotated merchandise and displays to feature new products and promotions.
- Assisted the Store Manager in analyzing sales data to identify trends and make informed decisions for improving overall store performance.
- Walked through store areas to identify and proactively resolve issues negatively impacting operations.
- Mentored new employees on company policies, procedures, and best practices to ensure their success within the organization.
- Supervised and evaluated staff to help improve skills, achieve daily objectives, and attain advancement.
- Fostered a positive work culture by promoting teamwork and recognizing individual achievements among staff members regularly.
- Processed payments for credit and debit cards and returned proper change for cash transactions.
- Created and maintained safe and secure work environments for employees.
- Developed a loyal customer base through personalized interactions, increasing repeat business in-store visits.
- Responded to customer concerns, working with manager to significantly raise customer satisfaction ratings.
- Streamlined inventory management with regular audits, accurate ordering, and efficient stock organization.
- Resolved escalated customer issues effectively leading to improved customer satisfaction rates.
- Maintained positive customer relationships by responding quickly to customer service inquiries.
- Provided weekly work schedules to employees to accommodate business demands and vacation requests.
- Reconciled daily sales transactions to balance and log day-to-day revenue.
- Interviewed, hired, and trained staff associates and equipped to comply with company policies and procedures.
- Coached sales associates in product specifications, sales incentives, and selling techniques, significantly increasing customer satisfaction ratings.
- Analyzed customer feedback and implemented strategies to improve customer experience.
- Verified inventory counts remained within monthly tolerance levels and compiled financial data in compliance with budget.
- Increased employee retention, training staff in effective customer service techniques and product knowledge.
- Implemented loss prevention tactics to deter thefts while maintaining a welcoming environment for all customers.
- Provided support to store manager in budgeting processes, helping maintain financial stability for the business.
- Collaborated with store manager to develop marketing initiatives that drove traffic and increased brand awareness.
- Delivered consistent sales growth by identifying opportunities for promotions and cross-selling products to customers.
- Improved store operations by establishing clear communication channels between team members and implementing efficient scheduling practices.
- Launched staff engagement, gender diversity and cultural programs in addition to robust reporting tool that increased operational quality.
- Negotiated price and service with customers and vendors to decrease expenses and increase profit.
- Identified and qualified customer needs and negotiated and closed profitable projects with high success rate.
- Implemented business strategies, increasing revenue, and effectively targeting new markets.
- Tracked trends and suggested enhancements to both challenge and refine company's product offerings.
- Updated and resolved incidents and managed accessorial charges objectively while maximizing profit.
- Cultivated and strengthened lasting client relationships using strong issue resolution and dynamic communication skills.
- Managed purchasing, sales, marketing and customer account operations efficiently.
Bakery Clerk
Publix
Woodstock, GA
03.2022 - 08.2023
- Checked expiration dates and rotated products to verify freshness and avoid spoilage.
- Balanced multiple tasks simultaneously during busy periods while still delivering exceptional customer service experiences.
- Prepared fresh baked goods daily, ensuring consistent high-quality products for customers.
- Arranged bakery displays to showcase baked goods, cakes, and pies to drive product sales.
- Maintained tidy and organized work area to comply with cleanliness standards.
- Ensured compliance with food safety regulations by maintaining a clean and organized workspace at all times.
- Assisted in inventory management by accurately tracking stock levels and promptly replenishing supplies as needed.
- Helped train new employees on proper baking techniques, equipment usage, and customer service best practices.
- Monitored counter and display inventory by replacing stock and requesting new products from kitchen to keep areas well-stocked for maximum sales.
- Collaborated with fellow bakery staff members to streamline production processes and improve overall efficiency.
- Recommended new bakery items to customers based on taste preferences, building rapport and boosting sales.
- Inspected goods to establish accurate pricing and labeling.
- Developed strong relationships with regular customers, fostering loyalty and repeat business for the bakery department.
- Packaged customer purchases with care and strong organizational skills to facilitate easy carrying and prevent product shifting.
- Decorated and merchandised quality bakery goods to build business reputation and revenue base.
- Helped customers locate ideal menu items by listening to needs and recommending specific products or services.
- Promoted a positive work environment within the bakery team through open communication channels and constructive feedback mechanisms.
Assistant Cook Manager
Tazikis
Atlanta, GA
05.2021 - 05.2022
- Boosted staff morale through consistent recognition of exceptional performance among team members, creating a motivating work atmosphere.
- Adhered to all applicable health and safety regulations by maintaining proper food handling practices and wearing appropriate personal protective equipment.
- Prepared high-quality dishes efficiently under time constraints, maintaining consistency in taste and presentation during peak hours.
- Provided exceptional customer service by addressing diner concerns promptly and professionally, ensuring repeat business.
- Contributed to a positive work environment through effective communication and teamwork, fostering strong relationships with colleagues.
- Assisted with employee training initiatives for new hires, sharing knowledge on essential cooking techniques and kitchen protocols.
- Expanded culinary repertoire by researching innovative recipes and experimenting with different flavor combinations for unique dishes.
- Assisted in menu development for increased customer satisfaction, incorporating healthy and diverse ingredients into dishes.
- Supported head chef in managing daily operations, including scheduling, budgeting, and purchasing necessary supplies.
- Enhanced kitchen efficiency by streamlining meal preparation processes and effectively delegating tasks to team members.
Swim Instructor
Atlanta Swim Academy
Atlanta, GA
08.2021 - 02.2022
- Taught daily swim instruction to students varying in ages and skill levels.
- Maintained CPR, First Aid, and lifeguard certifications to ensure preparedness for emergency situations during lessons.
- Promoted a fun learning environment through engaging activities and games designed to reinforce essential swimming skills.
- Improved swimmer confidence by providing consistent positive reinforcement and constructive feedback on technique.
- Used teaching aids such as kickboards, diving rings, and fins correctly to teach students.
- Provided positive reinforcement and motivation to increase student confidence and performance.
- Took notes strengths and weaknesses of each child in class to track progress.
- Increased swimmer safety by enforcing pool rules and maintaining vigilant supervision during lessons.
- Addressed behavioral issues promptly using a fair and consistent approach, fostering a respectful learning environment for all participants.
- Enhanced student swimming abilities through the development and implementation of personalized lesson plans.
- Planned classes covering different ages and skill levels to prepare students for basic and advanced swimming needs.
- Adapted teaching techniques to different learning styles.
- Maintained control and safety of class and kept children in flotation always within arm's reach.
- Communicated clearly and positively with parents to ensure expectations were met and exceeded.
- Developed and implemented lesson plans based on individual student needs.
- Provided one-on-one instruction for students requiring additional assistance in mastering specific skills or techniques.
- Adjusted lesson pacing according to individual student needs while adhering to established curriculum guidelines, ensuring optimal progress for all learners.
- Assisted in setting up pool deck, cleaning up public areas and closing pool in unsafe conditions.
- Assessed student skill levels at the beginning of each session to ensure proper class placement and maximize opportunities for growth and development.
- Encouraged parent involvement in their child''s aquatic education through regular communication about progress and upcoming events.
- Collaborated with other instructors to develop innovative teaching methods for improved student outcomes.
- Streamlined class organization by maintaining accurate records of student progress, attendance, and skill assessments.
- Utilized various teaching aids such as kickboards, fins, pull buoys, or noodles to provide targeted support for specific skill acquisition among students at various competency levels.
- Implemented proper safety protocols and emergency response plans.
Sales Associate
Under Armour
Woodstock, GA
08.2021 - 11.2021
- Organized racks and shelves to maintain store visual appeal, engage customers, and promote specific merchandise.
- Handled cash transactions efficiently while adhering to company cash handling policies, ensuring accuracy in all financial exchanges.
- Built relationships with customers to encourage repeat business.
- Managed returns, exchanges and refunds in accordance with store policy.
- Maintained calm demeanor and professionally managed issues in busy, high-stress situations.
Delivery Driver
Delivery Delights
Round Rock, TX
05.2021 - 07.2021
- Delivered packages to customer doorsteps and business offices.
- Completed on-time deliveries by choosing best and most efficient routes.
- Improved customer satisfaction by ensuring timely and accurate deliveries of products.
- Read maps, followed oral, and written instructions and used GPS technology to make deliveries.
- Operated vehicle safely in highly congested areas with no traffic violations.
- Completed rush deliveries on tight timetables to satisfy customer needs.
Back of House Trainer
Freddy’s Steakburger and Custard
Killeen, TX
12.2019 - 04.2021
- Delivered hands-on instruction in proper food handling techniques, storage practices, and equipment maintenance procedures to minimize risk of contamination or injury.
- Ensured compliance with all health department regulations, maintaining a clean and safe working environment at all times.
- Collaborated with management to create performance benchmarks, evaluating staff progress towards meeting objectives.
- Improved team efficiency by implementing structured training programs for new hires.
- Enhanced overall kitchen performance by regularly updating training manuals and procedures.
Youth Development Professional
Boys and Girls Club
Killeen, TX
08.2018 - 12.2019
- Provided support and guidance to youth, helping them overcome personal challenges and achieve their goals.
- Promoted positive behavior among youth by modeling healthy relationships, conflict resolution, and decision-making skills.
- Engaged and interacted with youth members, teaching sustainable habits, and coping mechanisms.
- Assisted with educational needs through tutoring and homework assistance.
- Supervised youth and maintained security for each child under care.
- Enhanced youth development by implementing engaging and interactive programs tailored to individual needs.
- Empowered youth leaders by providing opportunities for them to take on leadership roles within the organization and serve as role models for their peers.
- Increased participant engagement through the creation of a welcoming and inclusive environment for all youth members.
- Developed strong rapport with families, ensuring their involvement in supporting the growth of their children within our programs.
- Implemented effective strategies for managing challenging behaviors while maintaining a safe and supportive atmosphere within our programs.
- Collaborated with team members to develop comprehensive programs addressing diverse aspects of youth development.
- Improved communication skills among participants by facilitating group activities and fostering open dialogue.
Education
Business Administration
Central Texas College
Killeen, TXSkills
- Customer service
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Multitasking and organization
- Time management
- Problem-solving
- Clear communication
- Cash handling
- Cleaning
- Attention to detail
- Customer engagement
- Taking orders
- Cleaning and sanitizing
- Self-discipline
- Interactive communication skills
- Flexible schedule
- Safe food handling
- Integrity and honesty
- Safety awareness
- Initiative and Self-motivation
- Basic math
- Verbal and written communication
- Leadership qualities
- Drive-thru operations
- Food preparation
- Heavy lifting
- Learning agility
- Store opening and closing
- Crew leadership
- Safety
- Resilience and persistence
- Hospitality service expertise
- Valid Driver's license
- Complex Problem-solving
- Visual communication
- Creativity and innovation
- Inventory restocking
- Order management
- Performance improvement
- Menu memorization
- Supplies monitoring and restocking
- Telephone etiquette
- Cooking
- Positive company representation
- Food running
- Health code compliance
- Beverage preparation
- Assertiveness
- Equipment maintenance
- Diversity awareness
- Ordering procedures
- Salesmanship
- Influencing skills
- Housekeeping
- Inventory counts
- Point-of-sale transactions
- Sales expertise
- Quality control checks
- Point of sale operation
- Order delivery practices
- Product promotion
- Production line work
- Safe vehicle operation
- Willingness to learn
- Workplace safety
- Reliability and punctuality
- Sanitation protocols
- Task prioritization
- Product knowledge
- Landscaping and groundskeeping
- Quality assurance
- Table setting
- Stock management
- Recipe adherence
- Plate presentation
- Product cross-selling
- Company standards
- Point-of-sale system
- Steering
- Docking management
- Team contributions
- Line efficiency
- Tool and equipment use
- Workplace efficiency
- Team player
- Adaptability and flexibility
- Cleaning and organization
- Collaboration and teamwork
- Dependable and cooperative
Timeline
Crew Member
Qdoba
05.2024 - 08.2024
Bakery Clerk
Publix
03.2022 - 08.2023
Swim Instructor
Atlanta Swim Academy
08.2021 - 02.2022
Sales Associate
Under Armour
08.2021 - 11.2021
Assistant Cook Manager
Tazikis
05.2021 - 05.2022
Delivery Driver
Delivery Delights
05.2021 - 07.2021
Assistant Store Manager
2nd Chance Toys
02.2021 - 07.2024
Back of House Trainer
Freddy’s Steakburger and Custard
12.2019 - 04.2021
Youth Development Professional
Boys and Girls Club
08.2018 - 12.2019
Business Administration
Central Texas College