Karen Castro
Hawthorne
Summary
Reliable, dependable worker with multiple years of customer service skills. Known for reliability, teamwork, and maintaining efficiency in high volume retail, cafe and restaurant environments. Skilled in fast, accurate transaction processing, problem resolution, and delivering positive customer experiences.
Overview
12
12
years of professional experience
Work History
Store Associate
CVS
Hawthorne
09.2024 - Current
- Processing customer transactions efficiently using POS systems to enhance overall checkout experience
- Effectively assisted Spanish-speaking customers with questions, service needs, and issue resolution.
- Collaborate with team members to optimize workflow during peak hours, enhancing service speed and accuracy
- Maintain compliance with health and safety protocols while managing inventory restocks and organization
- Assisting in store merchandising efforts by creating attractive displays and ensuring product availability
Barista
Starbucks
Hawthorne
02.2022 - Current
- Crafting customized coffee beverages, ensuring consistency with store recipes and customer preferences
- Contribute to a positive team environment through effective communication and collaboration with colleagues.
- Manage inventory levels by tracking product usage and placing timely orders to minimize shortages
- Execute daily cleaning routines for equipment and workstations, maintaining a hygienic environment in compliance with health regulations
- Maintain a clean and organized workspace for optimal productivity and safety.
- Handle customer complaints professionally, resolving issues promptly to ensure satisfaction and foster loyalty.
- Engage with customers to gather feedback, enhancing overall service delivery and fostering repeat business relationships
Cashier/Expo
Burgerlords
04.2021 - 08.2022
- Operated point-of-sale (POS) system to process cash, card, and digital payments accurately
- Develop new team members in cash handling procedures and customer service standards.
- Conduct regular inventory checks to ensure product availability and prevent stockouts
- Gather customer feedback during transactions to improve service quality and operational efficiency.
- Ensure compliance with sanitation regulations by regularly inspecting workstations and equipment.
Cashier
Donut Friend
01.2019 - 12.2020
- Operated point-of-sale (POS) system to process cash, card, and digital payments accurately
- Executed cash handling procedures with precision, ensuring accuracy and security of daily transactions
- Facilitated smooth customer experiences by efficiently managing order queues during peak service periods.
- Ensured compliance with health department regulations through thorough equipment inspections and sanitation practices
- Collaborated with kitchen staff to coordinate timely food preparation and delivery for customer orders
- Worked flexible schedule and extra shifts to meet business needs
Cashier/Cook
Todo Verde
07.2019 - 03.2020
- Coordinated with team members to streamline workflow, enhancing productivity and reducing lead times in casting operations
- Managed daily maintenance of casting equipment, ensuring optimal performance and adherence to safety regulations
- Trained new team members on casting techniques and safety protocols, fostering a culture of excellence
- Implemented process improvements that minimized waste and maximized resource utilization in the casting department
- Facilitated customer loyalty by promoting seasonal specials and encouraging repeat visits through engaging interactions
- Engaged with customers to gather feedback, directly influencing enhancements in service delivery practices
- Coordinated with kitchen staff to streamline food preparation, enhancing service speed during peak hours
- Prepared high-quality meals by following standardized recipes, consistently meeting customer expectations and dietary needs
- Maintained a clean and organized cooking environment, adhering to health and safety regulations at all times
Cashier/Lead
Native Foods Café
12.2016 - 11.2018
- Handling money (POS System), assigning duties for the day to insure a smooth work day, BOH line checks and practice health inspections, covered cooks on the line when needed, side work, washed dishes, assisting guests with any issues they have, etc.
Cashier
Lemonade
08.2016 - 12.2016
- Handle money (POS System), assist guests with food, drinks and desserts, giving samples if needed, stocking and restocking, keeping area clean, and any side-work given.
Sales Associate
Spencers Gifts
10.2014 - 02.2016
- Responsible for selling Store merchandise to Guests while maintaining the company's standard in customer service. Assists with merchandising, stocking and general upkeep of the store.
Education
High School Diploma -
Edward R Roybal Learning Center
01-2011
Sign Language/Interpreter Training
El Camino College
Skills
- Spanish speaking
- Customer service and assistance
- Cash handling accuracy
- Attention to detail focus
- Team collaboration
- Inventory control
- Store cleanliness maintenance
- Flexible schedule adaptability
Languages
Spanish
Native or Bilingual
English
Native or Bilingual
Timeline
Store Associate
CVS
09.2024 - Current
Barista
Starbucks
02.2022 - Current
Cashier/Expo
Burgerlords
04.2021 - 08.2022
Cashier/Cook
Todo Verde
07.2019 - 03.2020
Cashier
Donut Friend
01.2019 - 12.2020
Cashier/Lead
Native Foods Café
12.2016 - 11.2018
Cashier
Lemonade
08.2016 - 12.2016
Sales Associate
Spencers Gifts
10.2014 - 02.2016
High School Diploma -
Edward R Roybal Learning Center
Sign Language/Interpreter Training
El Camino College