Ground Market & Caf Associate

Ground Market Position

Ground Market is a community gathering place in the heart of Carlton, Oregon, in the Willamette Valleybringing together a wood-fired pizza and ice cream shop alongside a market and farmstand rooted in the region's agricultural abundance. The space is warm, lively, and welcoming, inviting locals and visitors to connect over simple, good food.

Ground Market is part of The Ground, a collection of destinations and experiences rooted in a philosophy of conscious, loving hospitality in service to all species.

We're looking for team members who can bring The Ground Market to life through both retail and caf experiences. This role is central to creating a welcoming, engaging environment where guests feel cared forwhether they're shopping for high-quality meats and produce, ordering a morning coffee, or grabbing a quick bite.

You'll play a key role in connecting people to our food, our farmers, and our missionwhile helping the Market & Caf operate smoothly day-to-day. This position also offers the opportunity to grow within The Ground Market and the broader Ground ecosystem over time.

Responsibilities include:

• Creating a warm, welcoming, and engaging experience for every customer
• Staffing The Ground Market & Caf, supporting both retail and food & beverage service
• Preparing and serving high-quality coffee and espresso drinks, demonstrating strong barista technique, attention to detail, and consistency in drink preparation
• Taking customer orders and handling transactions accurately and efficiently
• Preparing simple food items, including warming breakfast sandwiches and serving baked goods
• Assisting across service areas as needed, including supporting the ice cream counter, running food, and bussing tables
• Maintaining a clean, organized, and inviting caf and retail environment
• Supporting opening and closing responsibilities, including watering plants, maintaining produce displays, and ensuring overall space readiness
• Speaking knowledgeably about our products, farms, and sourcing to guide customer purchases
• Building relationships with customers and developing an understanding of their preferences
• Maintaining and restocking displays (meat, produce, dry goods, and caf items) throughout the day
• Assisting with basic food handling and packaging, including wrapping meat products
• Selling wine and, when appropriate, pouring and serving alcoholic beverages in accordance with regulations
• Supporting inventory processes, including stocking, counting, and communicating needs
• Completing end-of-day tasks, including cleaning, closing procedures, and retail reconciliation
• Communicating clearly and professionally with customers and team members across all channels
• Upholding all food safety, cleanliness, and operational standards

Qualifications include:

• Genuine passion for hospitality and creating a positive guest experience
• Experience in retail, caf, barista, or food service environments preferred
• Comfort preparing coffee/espresso drinks (or willingness to learn quickly)
• Strong communication skillsfriendly, clear, and professional in all interactions
• Ability to multitask and stay organized in a fast-paced, hybrid environment
• Detail-oriented with a high standard for cleanliness and presentation
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team
• Strong problem-solving skills and a proactive mindset
• Familiarity with or interest in high-quality, local, and regenerative food systems
• Comfortable using POS systems, email, and basic computer programs
• Availability to work weekends and flexible schedules
• Comfortable on your feet for extended periods and able to lift up to 50 pounds
• Current State Food Handler's License and OLCC certification required

Experience: 23 years of experience in retail, hospitality, caf, or similar environments preferred

Benefits include PTO, health, vision, dental, life insurance, 401(k) for qualifying employees.

Employee perks: 20% discount at Ground entities (includes Ground Market, Grounded Table, The Pub, Grounded Body)