Barista

Barista – Common Ground Café (A PDI Program)
Location: Clarksville, TN
Schedule: Monday through Friday, 6:30am to 2:30pm
Reports to: Café Operations Manager

About PDI & Common Ground Café
Progressive Directions, Inc. (PDI) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering people with intellectual and developmental disabilities to live with Pride, Dignity, and Independence. For over 48 years, PDI has provided person-centered programs that support personal growth, community engagement, and competitive employment.

Common Ground Café is a PDI program that blends great coffee and customer service with workforce development. The Café provides hands-on training and employment opportunities for the people we support, helping them build skills to transition into competitive community jobs.

Position Summary
The Barista is responsible for overseeing the beverage section of the Café, preparing drinks to order, and providing exceptional customer service in a friendly and inclusive environment. This role also supports the overall operations of the Café, helping to maintain quality standards, ensure safety compliance, and create a welcoming space for both customers and team members.

Key Responsibilities

• Greet customers warmly and provide outstanding service. 
• Prepare and serve specialty coffee drinks and other beverages, accommodating dietary needs.
• Maintain the cleanliness and safety of the beverage station and equipment in compliance with Tennessee health and safety codes.
• Monitor beverage inventory, restock supplies, and pick up orders as needed.
• Operate POS system, handle cash/credit transactions, and maintain cash drawer accuracy.
• Assist with dine-in service, answer phones, and address customer questions or concerns.
• Perform general cleaning duties, including sweeping, mopping, dusting, and moving furniture.
• Attend required staff meetings and training sessions.
• Other duties as assigned.

Why Join PDI/Common Ground Cafe?

• Be part of PDI’s mission to empower people to live with Pride, Dignity, and Independence.  
• Make a real impact in someone’s life every day.  
• Work in a supportive, mission-driven environment.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED (required).
  Barista experience (required).
• Valid Tennessee, Kentucky, or Alabama driver’s license (military exceptions available).
• Satisfactory criminal background check, negative drug test, and clear driving record.
• Ability to read, follow directions, and communicate effectively in both oral and written form.
• Excellent customer service skills with an engaging and energetic personality.
• Ability to multi-task and problem-solve in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to be part of a team and a team-oriented environment.  
• Ability/availability to attend and pass all required training.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Ability to interpret and follow safety rules, operating instructions, and procedure manuals.
• Able to present information effectively in one-on-one and small-group situations.
• Basic math skills, including handling American currency and performing cashier functions.
• Strong reasoning skills and good judgment in handling customer and workplace situations.

Physical Demands

• Frequent standing, walking, bending, and reaching (on your feet approximately 90% of the shift).
• Occasionally stooping, kneeling, crouching, or crawling.
• Ability to lift/move up to 50 lbs.
• General cleaning and moving furniture as needed.

Work Environment

• Moderate noise level typical of a café setting.