Barista

POSITION OVERVIEW

The Barista is responsible for delivering exceptional customer service while preparing and serving beverages in a professional and welcoming environment.

This position requires strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to independently manage daily cafe task while supporting the broader Food & Beverage team.

The ideal candidate is proactive, reliable, puncutual and comfortable working in an environment where responsibilities extend beyond traditional coffee beverage preparation.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Beverage Preparation & Quality Control

• Prepare and serve espresso-based beverages, brewed coffee, teas, and specialty drinks according to established recipes and presentation standards.
• Demonstrate proficiency in espresso extraction, milk steaming, and beverage preparation techniques.
• Maintain consistency in beverage prep, quality, portioning, temperature, and presentation.
• Properly operate, clean, and maintain espresso machines, grinders, brewers, and other beverage equipment.
• Monitor ingredient freshness, proper storage, and product rotation.
• Accommodate guest preferences and dietary requests when possible.

Customer Service & Hospitality

• Greet members, guests, and visitors in a friendly, professional manner.
• Provide knowledgeable recommendations regarding beverages, food selections, and available cafe offerings.
• Accurately process customer orders and payments through the Toast POS system.
• Maintain efficient service during high-volume periods without compromising hospitality or product quality.
• Address customer questions, concerns, and service issues professionally.
• Build positive relationships with regular members and guests.

Daily Cafe Operations

• Independently execute opening and closing procedures according to established checklists.
• Set up and organize beverage stations, service counters, and customer-facing areas before service.
• Maintain adequate stock levels of coffee, milk, alternative milks, syrups, cups, lids, and other service supplies.
• Restock beverage stations and customer service areas throughout the day.
• Monitor inventory levels and communicate purchasing or replenishment needs to management.
• Maintain organized refrigeration, dry storage, and service areas.
• Complete assigned daily operational tasks and communicate outstanding needs to management.

Food Service & Order Fulfillment

• Assist with the display of designated pastries.
• Accurately package and label customer orders for pickup or takeaway.
• Coordinate with kitchen staff to ensure food and beverage orders are completed accurately and efficiently.
• Assist with order handoff, customer pickup, and maintaining an organized service flow.
• Follow established portioning, packaging, and presentation standards.

Cleaning, Sanitation & Food Safety

• Maintain cleanliness and sanitation of espresso machines, grinders, counters, refrigerators, and beverage preparation areas.
• Follow established cleaning schedules and opening and closing sanitation procedures.
• Properly wash, sanitize, and store beverage equipment and service utensils.
• Maintain compliance with Los Angeles County Department of Public Health requirements.
• Follow proper food handling, temperature control, labeling, and storage procedures.
• Maintain an organized, clean, and safe working environment.
• Promptly report equipment malfunctions, maintenance concerns, and food safety issues to management.

Event & Team Support

• Assist with coffee, tea, and nonalcoholic beverage service for onsite meetings and corporate events as assigned.
• Prepare and replenish beverage stations for scheduled functions.
• Coordinate with the Food & Beverage team regarding special orders and group service.
• Assist with additional Food & Beverage duties as reasonably assigned.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Previous professional barista experience in a cafe, coffee shop, restaurant, or comparable hospitality environment.
• Working knowledge of espresso preparation, milk steaming, coffee brewing, and specialty beverages (preferred).
• Strong customer service and interpersonal communication skills.
• Ability to operate a POS system and accurately process transactions.
• Strong attention to detail, organization, and time management.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple responsibilities.
• Dependability, punctuality, and a professional attitude.
• Ability to remain composed and efficient during busy service periods.
• Willingness to assist with general cafe operations beyond beverage preparation.
• Current California Food Handler Card or ability to obtain one within the legally required timeframe.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience working in a corporate cafe, hospitality venue, or multi-use event facility.
• Familiarity with inventory management, product rotation, and daily ordering procedures.
• Experience supporting catered meetings or private events.
• Knowledge of alternative milks, specialty coffee beverages, and current beverage trends.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
• Ability to perform repetitive tasks associated with beverage preparation.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 25 pounds.
• Ability to work safely around hot liquids, steam equipment, and commercial kitchen appliances.

SCHEDULE & AVAILABILITY

This position primarily supports weekday daytime cafe operations.

Flexibility may occasionally be required to accommodate scheduled events, operational needs, or changes in business volume.

BENEFITS

• Employee discounts
• Paid sick time
• Flexible scheduling

Final compensation, benefits, and scheduling are subject to confirmation.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

The Preserve LA is committed to providing an inclusive and respectful workplace. Employment decisions are made in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local employment laws.