Lead Barista

Overview Job Summary The Lead Barista serves as a role model for customer engagement by delivering exceptional service, addressing customer concerns professionally, and fostering a welcoming and positive café environment. This role upholds company standards and promotes a collaborative and productive team atmosphere, setting the tone for daily operations. In addition to preparing and serving a variety of food and beverage items in accordance with established recipes and standards, the Lead Barista monitors workflow, delegates tasks when needed, and supports staff to ensure consistency and timely service. This position upholds cleanliness, organization, and food safety standards throughout all service and preparation areas. The Lead Barista oversees café readiness and ensures seamless daily operations, particularly during the morning shift, maintaining high product quality, customer service, and operational efficiency while providing leadership to team members. Responsibilities Open the store in a timely and organized manner, activating and calibrating equipment such as espresso machines, grinders, and brewing systems to ensure operational readiness. Perform daily espresso dial-in procedures by adjusting grind size and dosage to maintain optimal product quality and consistency. Prepare initial batches of brewed coffee in accordance with company standards. Oversee point-of-sale (POS) system setup, including accurate cash drawer preparation and verification; adhere to cash-handling procedures and conduct cash drawer audits when appropriate. Maintain inventory levels by monitoring stock usage, identifying supply needs, and coordinating restocking efforts. Assist with inventory tracking and communicate ordering requirements to management to support uninterrupted operations. Ensure cleanliness, sanitation, and safety standards across all service, preparation, and customer areas. Execute ongoing cleaning and maintenance of equipment and facilities to uphold company and health regulation requirements. Deliver and model exceptional customer service by greeting guests, processing transactions, providing product knowledge, and resolving customer concerns in a timely and effective manner. Prepare coffee, espresso, and tea beverages in accordance with established recipes and quality standards. Conduct routine quality checks, including taste evaluations and presentation review, to ensure consistency and excellence in product delivery. Redirect daily workflow when necessary, sharing responsibilities, and ensuring efficient service during peak periods. Serve as a resource for fellow employees with questions regarding daily tasks, conflict resolution, or operating procedures. Train, mentor, and support team members in operational responsibilities as directed by the Food and Beverage Managers. Maintain clear and professional communication with management and staff regarding operational updates, staffing needs, and performance notes to ensure alignment and continuity of service. Perform any additional tasks requested by management. Qualifications Experience: Prior experience as a barista or in a customer-facing role is preferred, but not required. A willingness to learn on the job is essential. Customer-focused: A friendly, positive, and patient personality is required to provide exceptional service, even during high-pressure moments. Communication skills: Excellent verbal communication and listening skills to effectively interact with customers and team members. Technical skills: Ability to learn and operate brewing equipment and the POS system quickly. Knowledge of various coffee and tea types is a plus. Efficiency and multitasking: Strong time management and organizational skills to prioritize tasks and handle multiple customer orders simultaneously. Physical stamina: Ability to stand for long periods and lift heavy items, such as milk crates or boxes of supplies. Availability: Must be able to work early mornings, weekends, and holidays. Benefits 401(k) 401(k) matching Dental insurance Disability insurance Employee discount Health insurance Paid time off Retirement plan Vision insurance Work Location: In person #J-18808-Ljbffr