Barista

The Barista greets customers, takes orders, and prepares a wide variety of hot and cold beverages (such as espresso shots, lattes, cappuccinos, and teas). This role requires excellent customer service skills, the ability to work efficiently in a high-volume environment, and a passion for coffee culture.

## Core Responsibilities

### 1. Beverage & Food Preparation

- **Espresso Craft:** Grind, tamp, and pull espresso shots according to specific recipe standards and extraction times.
- **Milk Texturing:** Steam and froth milk to the correct temperatures and micro-foam consistency for different drinks (e.g., flat whites vs. traditional cappuccinos).
- **Recipe Compliance:** Prepare signature drinks, teas, cold brews, and seasonal specials accurately and quickly.
- **Food Handling:** Heat and serve pastries, sandwiches, or other food items following health and safety guidelines.

### 2. Customer Service & Point of Sale (POS)

- **Welcoming Atmosphere:** Greet customers warmly, answer questions about the menu, and offer recommendations based on preferences.
- **Order Accuracy:** Take orders efficiently using the POS system and process cash, credit, or mobile payments correctly.
- **Queue Management:** Keep the line moving smoothly during peak morning or afternoon rushes while maintaining a friendly demeanor.

### 3. Cleaning & Maintenance

- **Station Hygiene:** Maintain a clean, sanitized, and organized workspace throughout the shift.
- **Equipment Care:** Clean and maintain espresso machines, grinders, blenders, and brewers (including backflushing machines at closing).
- **Restocking:** Keep milk, coffee beans, syrups, cups, and lids fully stocked.

## Required Skills & Qualifications

### Technical & Physical Skills

- **Basic Math:** Ability to count back change quickly and manage cash drawer balances.
- **Stamina:** Ability to stand, walk, bend, and lift up to 30 lbs repeatedly during an 8-hour shift.
- **Hand-Eye Coordination:** Precision required for pouring, measuring ingredients, and executing basic latte art.

### Soft Skills

- **Speed & Efficiency:** The ability to multitask and stay calm under pressure when a long line forms.
- **Active Listening:** Paying close attention to complex, customized drink modifications (e.g., “half-caf, extra hot, oat milk latte”).
- **Teamwork:** Communicating clearly with coworkers (e.g., “calling out drinks,” coordinating who is on cash vs. who is on the machine).

## Experience Requirements

- **Education:** High school diploma or equivalent is preferred but not mandatory.
- **Experience:** Previous hospitality, retail, or customer service experience is a plus, but not mandatory Deja Brew Coffee will provide comprehensive on-the-job training for passionate beginners.
- **Certifications:** Basic Food Handler’s permit is a plus but not mandatory.

Previous hospitality, retail, or customer service experience is a plus, but not mandatory; Basic Food Handler’s permit is a plus but not mandatory.