Experienced Barista

Experienced Barista – Matcha Theory Location: Lincoln Square, Chicago Compensation: $17 hour + tips

Matcha Theory is a modern specialty café in Chicago’s Lincoln Square neighborhood focused on premium matcha, handcrafted espresso beverages, nitro cold brew, refreshers, and thoughtfully prepared café food.

We are looking for an experienced Barista who is confident behind the espresso bar, works well in a fast-paced environment, and takes pride in consistency, presentation, cleanliness, and customer service.

Responsibilities:

• Prepare espresso-based beverages, matcha drinks, teas, refreshers, and specialty café beverages according to our recipes and standards
• Operate a Lamarzooco commercial espresso machine and grinder
• Properly dial in espresso and maintain consistency throughout the shift
• Steam milk to the proper texture and temperature
• Prepare basic latte art
• Prepare and serve nitro cold brew and other cold beverages
• Follow established recipes, portioning standards, and café SOPs
• Assist with light food preparation, sandwich assembly, pastries, and reheating café items
• Maintain a clean, organized, and fully stocked bar
• Restock ingredients, cups, milks, syrups, and supplies as needed
• Follow proper food-safety, sanitation, and cleaning procedures
• Assist with opening and closing responsibilities
• Provide warm, professional, and attentive customer service
• Work efficiently with the team during busy service periods

Qualifications:

• Previous barista experience required
• Experience working with a commercial espresso machine required
• La Marzocco experience preferred
• Understanding of espresso extraction, grinder adjustment, and milk steaming
• Latte art experience preferred
• Nitro cold brew experience is a plus
• Comfortable performing light food preparation and café assembly
• Strong attention to detail and consistency
• Reliable, punctual, professional, and organized
• Able to work efficiently in a fast-paced café environment
• Strong communication skills and ability to work well with a team
• Passion for coffee, matcha, hospitality, and creating a great guest experience

About Matcha Theory

Matcha Theory is a modern wellness café blending premium matcha, specialty coffee, and globally inspired artisan food. We believe in quality over quantity and are building a neighborhood café where guests receive thoughtful, consistent service and feel recognized and welcomed.

We are looking for team members who want to learn our menu, understand our recipes, and take pride in preparing every drink and food item consistently.

To Apply

Please include:

• Your previous barista/café experience
• How many years of barista experience you have
• The commercial espresso machine(s) you have worked with
• Whether you have experience dialing in espresso
• Your latte art experience
• Your current availability

If available, please also include photos of your latte art or previous café work.