Barista

The Barista is responsible for providing exceptional customer service while preparing and serving high-quality coffee, espresso beverages, smoothies, and light food items. This position creates a welcoming atmosphere for residents, guests, and staff by delivering consistent, efficient, friendly service while maintaining a clean, organized, and food-safe café environment.

Beverage Preparation                           

• Prepare and serve brewed coffee, espresso beverages, specialty coffee drinks, teas, smoothies, and other café beverages according to established recipes and quality standards. 
• Operate and maintain espresso machines, coffee brewers, grinders, blenders, and other café equipment. 
• Monitor beverage quality, presentation, and consistency. 
• Restock coffee beans, syrups, milk, cups, lids, and other beverage supplies throughout the day. 

Food Preparation & Order Assembly                                       

• Assemble and prepare café menu items including pastries, breakfast items, sandwiches, wraps, salads, parfaits, and other grab-and-go offerings. 
• Package orders for dine-in or carry-out while verifying order accuracy. 
• Maintain proper food temperatures and follow safe food handling procedures. 

Cash Handling & Point-of-Sale Operations                                       

• Accurately process cash, credit card, gift card, and resident account transactions using the point-of-sale (POS) system. 
• Balance cash drawer at the beginning and end of each shift and report any discrepancies promptly. 
• Follow established cash handling, reconciliation, and financial accountability procedures. 
• Maintain the confidentiality and security of cash, receipts, and financial transactions. 
• Issue receipts, process refunds or voids in accordance with company policy, and accurately apply discounts or promotions when authorized. 

Customer Service                                       

• Greet every guest with professionalism and warmth. 
• Take customer orders accurately and efficiently using the point-of-sale (POS) system. 
• Answer questions regarding menu items, ingredients, allergens, and daily specials. 
• Resolve customer concerns professionally and promptly. 
• Build positive relationships with residents, guests, families, and team members. 

Sanitation & Safety                                       

• Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary work environment. 
• Clean beverage equipment, workstations, refrigerators, display cases, and dining areas throughout each shift. 
• Follow all food safety, sanitation, and health department regulations. 
• Rotate inventory using FIFO (First In, First Out) practices. 

Operations                                       

• Assist with opening and closing café procedures. 
• Monitor inventory levels and notify leadership of supply needs. 
• Receive and stock deliveries as assigned. 
• Restock retail coolers, grab-and-go displays, and merchandise as needed to ensure products are fresh, attractively displayed, and readily available for guests.
• Support team members during busy service periods. 
• Perform other duties as assigned. 

Minimum education, certification and/or licensure: 

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred. 
• ServSafe Food Handler Certification (or ability to obtain upon hire) 

Experience: 

• Previous barista, café, coffee shop, cashier, or food service experience preferred. 
• Experience operating espresso machines and preparing specialty coffee beverages is a plus. 
• Cash handling and point-of-sale (POS) experience preferred. 

Physical requirements: 

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods. 
• Ability to lift and carry up to 30 pounds. 
• Frequent bending, reaching, twisting, and repetitive hand movements. 
• Ability to safely operate commercial kitchen and beverage equipment. 

Mental requirements: 

• Strong customer service and communication skills. 
• Ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment. 
• Basic math and cash handling skills. 
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.