Lead Barista

Job Description

Position Title: Lead Barista / Café Manager
Location: University of Mobile Coffee Shop


Job Type: Full-Time


Reports To: Foodservice Director

About Us


We're much more than just a coffee shop-we're the social hub of campus life. Our coffeehouse serves specialty coffee, handcrafted beverages, fresh food, and a welcoming space where students, faculty, and staff gather to study, connect, and recharge. We're looking for an experienced barista who thrives in a fast-paced environment, loves coffee culture, and enjoys creating memorable guest experiences.

Position Summary


The Lead Barista and Café Manager will prepare high-quality coffee and espresso beverages, deliver exceptional customer service, and contribute to the energetic atmosphere of our campus coffeehouse. They will also oversee day-to-day café operations including scheduling, inventory, and staff management. The ideal candidate is a natural leader and is passionate about specialty coffee and coffee culture. They should work efficiently during busy rush periods and enjoy engaging with a diverse college community.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare espresso-based drinks, brewed coffee, teas, and specialty beverages to company standards
• Deliver friendly, engaging, and efficient customer service
• Maintain a clean, organized, and inviting café environment
• Operate POS systems and accurately process transactions
• Monitor inventory levels and assist with restocking supplies
• Follow food safety, sanitation, and health regulations
• Support opening, closing, and daily operational procedures
• Weekly scheduling and training of new and existing team members when needed
• Contribute ideas for seasonal beverages, promotions, and campus events
• Help create a welcoming environment for students, faculty, and staff

Qualifications

Required

• Minimum 2 years of barista experience in a coffee shop, café, or specialty coffee environment
• Experience operating commercial espresso equipment
• Strong customer service and communication skills
• Ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment
• Reliable, punctual, and team-oriented

Preferred

• Specialty coffee knowledge, including espresso extraction and milk texturing
• Experience in high-volume cafés or campus dining environments
• Food handler certification (or ability to obtain)
• Interest in coffee education and current beverage trends

What We Offer

• Competitive hourly pay
• Flexible scheduling around academic calendars
• Training and development opportunities
• Complimentary team member meal and beverages
• Opportunities for advancement within campus dining operations
• Fun, energetic work environment with a strong community focus

Ideal Candidate


You are passionate about coffee, genuinely enjoy connecting with people, and can keep your cool during the morning rush. You bring positive energy, attention to detail, and a desire to help make our coffeehouse a favorite destination on campus.

How to Apply


Please submit your resume along with a brief note describing your coffee experience and what excites you about working in a college coffeehouse environment and call View phone number on click.appcast.io and ask for Phillip Mitchell (Food Service Director) to schedule an interview.