Barista

OVERVIEW At PUBLIC, service is at the heart of everything we do. Our team delivers a service that is personal, gracious, friendly, knowledgeable, and genuine. We believe in creating memorable experiences by connecting with guests on a human level—through passion, empathy, curiosity, and authenticity. We welcome candidates from all backgrounds and experiences. We are an inclusive employer and celebrate diversity in all forms. PUBLIC is committed to creating an environment where everyone feels welcomed, respected, and supported. This is a unique opportunity to join the latest venture from iconic hotelier Ian Schrager and help shape the continued growth of the PUBLIC brand. SUMMARY/OBJECTIVE

The Café Attendant is responsible for delivering exceptional guest service while preparing beverages, processing transactions, and maintaining a clean and welcoming café environment. This role combines barista and cashier responsibilities by preparing coffee and specialty drinks, taking guest orders, handling payments, and ensuring efficient daily café operations in accordance with PUBLIC’s service and quality standards.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

• Be an ambassador for PUBLIC by meeting and exceeding PUBLIC core objectives and values.
• Greet guests promptly and provide friendly, professional, and efficient service.
• Take guest orders accurately and input orders into the POS system.
• Prepare and serve coffee, espresso beverages, teas, and other café items according to company recipes and standards.
• Process cash, credit, and electronic transactions accurately following company cash handling procedures.
• Maintain a balanced cash drawer and report discrepancies to management.
• Ensure beverages and food items are prepared and presented in a timely and consistent manner.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of café counters, preparation areas, seating areas, and equipment.
• Perform opening and closing procedures for the café, including setup, breakdown, and cleaning tasks.
• Restock supplies such as cups, lids, milk, condiments, and food items as needed.
• Operate coffee equipment, grinders, brewers, and POS systems safely and properly.
• Maintain knowledge of menu items and make recommendations to guests.

• Handle and store all food and beverage products properly, rotating stock according to established procedures (FIFO).
• Follow directions and maintain positive working relationships with supervisors and managers.
• Ensure compliance with sanitation fundamentals and Health Department requirements set forth by PUBLIC and all local, state, and federal regulations.
• Follow proper payroll, cash handling, and uniform procedures.
• Assist other departments and provide lateral service when needed.
• Perform all other responsibilities, tasks, and special projects as assigned by leadership.

REQUIRED SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS

• Ability to work a flexible schedule, including weekends, holidays, early mornings, and varying shifts.
• Maintain a high level of personal appearance and hygiene at all times.
• Must have the ability to report to work on time and when scheduled.
• Must have the ability to stand and/or walk for extended periods of time.
• Excellent customer service, interpersonal, and communication skills.
• Ability to multitask and work efficiently in a fast-paced café environment.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy in order taking and cash handling.
• Maintain a positive, professional, and service-oriented attitude at all times.
• Ability to work in a team environment and assist other departments when needed, providing lateral service.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Ability to stand and walk for long periods in a fast-paced café environment.
• Capable of lifting, carrying, and moving supplies, milk crates, and equipment, typically up to 30–40 lbs.
• Frequent bending, reaching, and repetitive motions while preparing beverages and handling transactions.
• Good manual dexterity for operating coffee equipment and POS systems safely.
• Ability to work under time pressure during peak service hours, including mornings, weekends, and holidays.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
• One year of experience in a café, coffee shop, cashier, or food and beverage customer service role preferred.
• Barista experience or familiarity with coffee and espresso preparation preferred but not required.
• Ability to read, write, and speak English fluently for guest communication and workplace safety.
• Basic math skills and accuracy in handling cash and electronic transactions.
• Experience using POS systems preferred.

• Must possess a valid California Food Handler Card or be able to obtain one within the required time frame.
• Knowledge of basic food safety, sanitation practices, and Health Department regulations preferred.
• Ability to follow standardized recipes, service procedures, and company policies accurately.

PUBLIC is an equal opportunity employer. We select, train, and promote the most qualified individuals regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, age, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other protected category. PUBLIC complies with all applicable local, state, and federal laws, including the California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA).