Job Overview
As a Barista at Soft Bar, you are the first point of connection in our guest experience. You will craft high-quality coffee and coffee alternatives—including adaptogenic lattes, herbal infusions, and functional beverages—with consistency, speed, and care. In this high-volume environment, you'll combine technical precision with warm hospitality, engaging guests with product knowledge, wellness education, and thoughtful recommendations that elevate their daily rituals.
Whether serving a regular morning crowd or contributing to a special event, you’ll help shape the rhythm and energy of the space. You should be passionate about intentional ingredients, fluent in both classic and alternative drink prep, and thrive under pressure while keeping your station clean, efficient, and guest-ready.
Responsibilities
- Prepare and serve a range of hot and cold beverages, including espresso drinks, functional lattes, herbal brews, and seasonal specials with consistency and care
- Deliver exceptional service in a high-volume setting while maintaining a calm and welcoming guest experience
- Manage point-of-sale transactions, including handling cash, credit cards, and mobile payments with accuracy and efficiency
- Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary bar and prep area, meeting all NYC DOH requirements
- Keep all beverage stations stocked and organized with necessary supplies, including milk alternatives, syrups, adaptogens, and custom tinctures
- Execute beverage recipes with precision and contribute to the development of new seasonal and signature offerings
- Support food service as needed, including plating light fare such as snacks or shareable menu items
- Assist with inventory management, including stock rotation and restocking supplies during and after shifts
- Engage guests with genuine warmth and professionalism, offering education on ingredients, sourcing, and health benefits
- Participate in team training and tastings to stay updated on evolving menu offerings and techniques
- Uphold all safety and hygiene protocols, including food handling, allergen awareness, and cleanliness standards
- Respond quickly and positively to guest requests, adjustments, or concerns
- Foster an inclusive, positive team culture that reflects Soft Bar’s values and mission
Experience
- Minimum 1–2 years of experience in a barista or beverage-focused role (coffee shop, juice bar, wellness café, etc.)
- A collaborative mindset and a passion for creating welcoming, community-centered spaces. Strong communication skills to warmly engage with all guests and team members
- Strong interest in both traditional coffee and alternative wellness beverages (adaptogens, herbs, plant milks, etc.)
- Ability to work quickly and efficiently without sacrificing quality, even during peak hours
- Excellent communication and hospitality skills; ability to educate and connect with a diverse guest base
- Must be 18 years or older in compliance with NYC labor laws
- Physically able to stand for long periods, lift up to 50 lbs, and perform repetitive tasks such as grasping and lifting overhead. Ability to work 8+ hours a day on feet.
- NYC Food Protection Certificate required or must be obtained within 30 days of hire
- Availability to work flexible hours, including early mornings, weekends, evenings, and holidays
- Familiarity with NYC Department of Health standards and a commitment to exceeding cleanliness expectations
- POS and basic cash-handling experience required
Soft Bar is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity in all forms and are committed to building and sustaining an inclusive, respectful, and equitable workplace for all employees. We strongly believe that a diverse team leads to stronger ideas, broader perspectives, and a more vibrant culture—both internally and in the communities we serve.In compliance with all applicable federal, state, and New York City laws, Soft Bar does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, national origin, ancestry, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, pregnancy, disability, genetic information, citizenship status, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.We are dedicated to providing reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities throughout the hiring process and during employment, in accordance with the New York City Human Rights Law and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). If you need assistance or an accommodation, please contact us.
Job Types: Full-time, Part-time
Pay: From $16.50 per hour
Benefits:
- Employee discount
- Flexible schedule
- Paid sick time
- Paid time off
- Paid training
Shift:
- 10 hour shift
- 8 hour shift
- Day shift
- Morning shift
Work Location: In person
