Barista

The Barista is responsible for preparing and serving high-quality coffee and beverages while delivering warm, knowledgeable, and engaging guest service. This role combines technical coffee skills, product knowledge, cleanliness standards, and the ability to confidently recommend beverages and food pairings to enhance the guest experience.

Key Responsibilities

1. Beverage Preparation & Quality Control

• Prepare espresso-based beverages, manual brews, teas, and specialty drinks as per standard recipes.
• Maintain consistency in taste, temperature, presentation, and portioning.
• Dial in espresso and adjust grind, dose, and yield as required.
• Understand basic coffee concepts including roast profiles, grind size, extraction, and milk texturing.
• Ensure beverages are served promptly and accurately during peak hours.

2. Guest Interaction & Service

• Greet guests warmly and create a welcoming café experience.
• Confidently explain menu items, ingredients, flavour profiles, and brewing methods.
• Recommend beverages and food pairings based on guest preferences.
• Upsell add-ons and specials in a natural, non-pushy manner.
• Handle guest feedback professionally and escalate concerns when necessary.

3. Food Handling

• Ensure food is handled according to hygiene and safety standards.
• Communicate clearly with kitchen staff for orders and modifications.

4. Station Setup, Hygiene & Maintenance

• Set up the barista station before service and close it down as per SOPs.
• Maintain cleanliness of coffee machines, grinders, work surfaces, and service areas.
• Perform daily cleaning, backflushing, and basic equipment maintenance.
• Ensure compliance with food safety and hygiene standards at all times.
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5. Inventory & Stock Control

• Monitor stock levels of coffee beans, milk, syrups, disposables, and other bar items.
• Report low stock and assist in stock rotation and storage.
• Minimise wastage by following correct preparation and storage procedures.

6. Teamwork & Training

• Work collaboratively with fellow baristas, service staff, and management.
• Assist in training junior baristas or trainees when required.
• Participate in tastings, product briefings, and training sessions.
• Follow all operational SOPs, brand standards, and training guidelines.
• Skills & CompetenciesTechnical SkillsBasic to intermediate espresso and milk-based beverage preparation.
• Understanding of coffee beans, brewing methods, and equipment.
• Ability to work efficiently during high-volume service.

7. Soft Skills

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Guest-focused mindset with attention to detail.
• Ability to multitask and stay calm under pressure.
• Willingness to learn and adapt.

8. Qualifications & Experience

• Prior experience as a Barista preferred (training can be provided).
• Certification in Barista skills or food safety is an added advantage.
• Passion for coffee, hospitality, and guest service is essential.

9. Physical & Work Requirements

• Ability to stand for extended periods.
• Comfortable lifting coffee supplies and operating equipment.
• Willingness to work early mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays as required.

Growth & DevelopmentOpportunities to progress to Senior Barista, Trainer, or Café Manager roles.

Access to internal and external training programs on coffee, service, and leadership.

Participation in sensory training, brewing certifications, and product development.