Lead Barista

JOB SUMMARY

Hillside Provisions is a family-owned, new cafe and restaurant opening in Summer of 2026 in Harrison, NY. We will offer exceptional craft coffee, morning, daytime, and evening services, aiming to create a new level of dining experience in Westchester Country. Hillside is looking for a Baristas & Cafe FOH to work the coffee and cafe counters.

The Baristas will report to Chef/Owner and FOH Management. They are responsible for producing high-quality coffee and espresso beverages while delivering efficient, service-forward hospitality in a fast-paced café environment. This role requires technical consistency, cleanliness, and guest engagement, and true entrepreneurial spirit towards making Hillside Provisions a success.

• Our customer-facing core values are community, quality, and consistency. 
• Our internal emphasis is preparedness & process, teamwork, and light-heartedness. 
• We intend to project beautiful aesthetics, comfort, and personalization with each transaction.

Customer Experience & Service

• Serve as the primary point of contact for customers, providing attentive and professional service
• Maintain a full understanding of all available coffees and retail products
• Communicate effectively to understand customer preferences and guide purchasing decisions
• Present every drink with care and attention to detail
• Maintain awareness of customer needs throughout their visit
• Maintain composure and positive demeanor during high-volume service periods
• Lead teammates in maintaining a calm and efficient service environment

Product Preparation & Quality

• Execute precise brewing parameters and recipes with consistency
• Maintain exceptional attention to detail in drink presentation and cleanliness
• Monitor and adjust equipment throughout service to maintain optimal performance
• Ensure all beverages reflect the quality standards of our coffees
• Communicate product information to customers with accuracy and appropriate vocabulary

Cafe Operations & Atmosphere

• Maintain the energy and professional atmosphere of service
• Contribute to an environment that reflects Hillside Provisions commitment to quality
• Maintain cleanliness and organization throughout all service areas
• Ensure the space remains orderly, functional, and welcoming
• Manage workflow efficiently during high-volume periods
• Uphold food safety and sanitation standards at all times

Teamwork

• Work collaboratively with team members to support efficient service
• Communicate effectively with teammates about orders, needs, and responsibilities
• Hold yourself and others accountable to Hillside Provisions standards professionally
• Support each other in maintaining quality service during challenging periods
• Contribute to a positive and professional team environment

Experience & Skills

• 1 years of barista experience preferred (open to candidates with strong aptitude and eagerness to learn)
• 1 year of specialty coffee experience preferred
• Experience working in high-volume, fast-paced service environments
• Demonstrated customer service skills with the ability to adapt to different customer interactions
• Technical proficiency with espresso machines, grinders, and brewing equipment
• Understanding and/or interest of brew science, extraction, and coffee preparation fundamentals preferred

Personal Attributes

• Passion for specialty coffee
• Detail-oriented with commitment to precision and consistency
• Pride in craftsmanship and dedication to quality execution
• Ability to maintain composure and professional demeanor under pressure
• Self-aware and able to regulate your energy and communication effectively
• Strong work ethic and reliability
• Team-oriented mindset with clear communication skills
• Openness to feedback and commitment to continuous improvement
• Ability to focus fully on work during service periods
• Thrives in environments where standards are high and details matter

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift boxes, etc.
• Ability to do repetitive work, including tamping espresso by hand 
• Able to work in small spaces in close proximity to others in a fast-paced environment 
• Occasionally write by hand, twist/bend/stop/squat, reach/work above shoulders, grasp lightly/fine manipulation, grasp forcefully, lift/carry/push/pull objects that weigh up to 15 pounds 
• Ability to traverse all parts of the café quickly. 
• Ability to lift 25-50 pounds
• Ability to stand up to 8+ hours, 5 days a week 

Environment

• Fast-paced, detail-oriented atmosphere
• Collaborative team environment focused on excellence
• Dynamic service periods requiring flexibility and adaptability

Schedule

• Full-time, Morning Focused
• Available weekends & non-major holidays
• Flexible, understanding we are a new enterprise and have evolving needs

This position description outlines the general nature and scope of work for this role but is not exhaustive. Responsibilities may evolve as our operations grow and improve.

Hillside Provisions is an Equal Opportunity employer committed to building an inclusive workforce that reflects the diversity of our community. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment.