Ground Market & Café Associate

Ground Market Position

Ground Market is a community gathering place in the heart of Carlton, Oregon, in the Willamette Valley—bringing together a wood-fired pizza and ice cream shop alongside a market and farmstand rooted in the region's agricultural abundance. The space is warm, lively, and welcoming, inviting locals and visitors to connect over simple, good food.

Ground Market is part of The Ground, a collection of destinations and experiences rooted in a philosophy of conscious, loving hospitality in service to all species.

We're looking for team members who can bring The Ground Market to life through both retail and café experiences. This role is central to creating a welcoming, engaging environment where guests feel cared for—whether they're shopping for high-quality meats and produce, ordering a morning coffee, or grabbing a quick bite.

You'll play a key role in connecting people to our food, our farmers, and our mission—while helping the Market & Café operate smoothly day-to-day. This position also offers the opportunity to grow within The Ground Market and the broader Ground ecosystem over time.

Responsibilities

• Create a warm, welcoming, and engaging experience for every customer
• Staff The Ground Market & Café, supporting both retail and food & beverage service
• Prepare and serve high-quality coffee and espresso drinks, demonstrating strong barista technique, attention to detail, and consistency in drink preparation
• Take customer orders and handle transactions accurately and efficiently
• Prepare simple food items, including warming breakfast sandwiches and serving baked goods
• Assist across service areas as needed, including supporting the ice cream counter, running food, and bussing tables
• Maintain a clean, organized, and inviting café and retail environment
• Support opening and closing responsibilities, including watering plants, maintaining produce displays, and ensuring overall space readiness
• Speak knowledgeably about our products, farms, and sourcing to guide customer purchases
• Build relationships with customers and develop an understanding of their preferences
• Maintain and restock displays (meat, produce, dry goods, and café items) throughout the day
• Assist with basic food handling and packaging, including wrapping meat products
• Sell wine and, when appropriate, pour and serve alcoholic beverages in accordance with regulations
• Support inventory processes, including stocking, counting, and communicating needs
• Complete end-of-day tasks, including cleaning, closing procedures, and retail reconciliation
• Communicate clearly and professionally with customers and team members across all channels
• Uphold all food safety, cleanliness, and operational standards

Qualifications

• Genuine passion for hospitality and creating a positive guest experience
• Experience in retail, café, barista, or food service environments preferred
• Comfort preparing coffee/espresso drinks (or willingness to learn quickly)
• Strong communication skills—friendly, clear, and professional in all interactions
• Ability to multitask and stay organized in a fast-paced, hybrid environment
• Detail-oriented with a high standard for cleanliness and presentation
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team
• Strong problem-solving skills and a proactive mindset
• Familiarity with or interest in high-quality, local, and regenerative food systems
• Comfortable using POS systems, email, and basic computer programs
• Availability to work weekends and flexible schedules
• Comfortable on your feet for extended periods and able to lift up to 50 pounds
• Current State Food Handler's License and OLCC certification required

Benefits include PTO, health, vision, dental, life insurance, 401(k) for qualifying employees.

Employee perks: 20% discount at Ground entities (includes Ground Market, Grounded Table, The Pub, Grounded Body)