Lead Barista

Pre-Opening Phase & Schedule ExpectationsPre-Opening Month (Onboarding & Setup Phase): Prior to our grand opening, employment begins with part-time/reduced hours for training, space setup, drink recipe calibration, warming standard operating procedures, and workflow practice.Post-Opening Schedule (Regular Operations):Type: Full-Time or Part-Time (2040 hours per week).Schedule Expectations: Weekend availability is required (weekend morning/afternoon shifts during peak play and cafe hours).Shift Examples (Subject to Change):Operational Hours: 8:00 AM 6:00 PM (Friday through Monday; more open days will be added)Opening Shift: 7:00 AM 3:00 PMClosing Shift: 11:00 AM 7:00 PMShorter shifts will be available and assigned as needed.CompensationPay Rate: $16.00 $19.00+ per hour (starting rate determined by skill level and relevant experience) + pooled tips.Ideal CandidateYou are a coffee lover who takes pride in great espresso extraction, beautiful milk texture, and rapid service during morning rushes. You lead by example with an upbeat, approachable attitude, keep a clean and organized counter, communicate clearly with your team, and stay calm under pressure. You enjoy mentoring others and are always ready to jump in across the cafe or play floor to keep operations running seamlessly.Mandatory Prerequisites & Background RequirementsAge Requirement: Must be at least 16 years of age. (Applicants aged 1617 must have signed parental/guardian consent on file to serve canned alcoholic beverages per Iowa law).Mandatory Background Check: Because we operate a child-focused family facility with a liquor license, passing comprehensive federal and state background checks is strictly required prior to hire.Certifications: Food Handler / ServSafe Food Prep certificate and CPR/First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain upon hire).Experience: Minimum 1+ years of previous barista or fast-paced customer service experience preferred.Key Responsibilities1. Espresso Craft & Beverage QualityCalibrate grinders daily, dial in espresso, steam milk to proper texture/temperature, and prepare signature coffee drinks, teas, and specialty beverages to exact recipes.Maintain speed, drink consistency, and high-touch service during peak morning rushes.2. Cafe Quick Bites & Display MerchandisingHeat, prepare, and serve quick bites and snacks adhering to food safety standards and proper holding temperatures.Keep pastry cases, grab-and-go coolers, snack shelves, and retail displays fully stocked, organized, and rotated using FIFO (First In, First Out).3. Shift Leadership, Alcohol Service & Cross-TrainingGuide baristas on shift, lead opening and closing checklists, and assist the Cafe Manager with barista training and daily inventory counts.Check IDs accurately and responsibly serve canned beer, wine, and seltzers to guests 21+.Cross-train on front desk check-in, waiver verification, and light play floor support to provide seamless backup during busy moments.4. Equipment Care & SanitationPerform daily cleaning and routine maintenance on commercial espresso machines, grinders, warming equipment, and blenders.Maintain a spotlessly sanitized service counter, dish station, and cafe seating area.Physical RequirementsAbility to stand and walk for extended periods (up to 8 hours per shift).Ability to lift, carry, and maneuver up to 40 lbs (milk crates, syrup boxes, ice, deliveries).Bending, reaching, stooping, and repetitive hand/wrist motions required for espresso preparation, food handling, and cleaning.
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