Barista

Description

Job Title: Barista

Reports To: Beverage Manager / General Manager

Department: Front of House - Café/Beverage

Employment Type: Hourly, Non-Exempt (Tipped, where applicable)

About José Andrés Group

José Andrés Group (JAG) is a hospitality company led by Chef José Andrés, known for outstanding guest experiences, innovation, and a values-driven culture. Our teams bring world-class food and warm hospitality to life across acclaimed concepts worldwide.

Position Summary

Baristas craft consistently excellent coffee and tea beverages while delivering warm, anticipatory hospitality. You'll dial-in espresso, steam milk to texture, execute non-coffee drinks, maintain a spotless workstation, manage par levels and restocking, and educate guests-upholding JAG quality, speed, and sanitation standards during every service.

Key Responsibilities

Guest Experience & Sales

• Greet guests with warmth; guide selections and offer thoughtful recommendations, pairings, and upgrades.
• Execute orders accurately and quickly; manage modifiers, milk alternatives, and sweetness levels to preference.
• Resolve guest concerns with empathy; escalate to leadership when needed.

Beverage Preparation & Quality

• Dial in espresso daily (dose, yield, time) and calibrate throughout service based on bean age and environmental changes.
• Steam milk to correct temperature and microfoam texture; pour consistent latte art where applicable.
• Prepare brewed coffee, pour-over, cold brew, teas, matcha, specialty and seasonal beverages to spec.
• Maintain recipe and presentation standards; taste and adjust as appropriate.

Station Readiness & Sidework

• Set, stock, and maintain station pars (beans, dairy/alternatives, syrups, powders, garnishes, cups/lids, napkins).
• Complete opening/closing and deep-clean tasks; keep bar, pastry case, and service areas organized and spotless.
• Rotate product with FIFO; label/date all perishable items and track hold times.

Equipment Care & Safety

• Operate and maintain espresso machines, grinders, brewers, kettles, blenders, nitro/cold brew systems, and dish/glass washers.
• Perform routine care (purge/flush, backflush, wipe wands, clean screens/baskets, calibrate grinders); report malfunctions and tag out unsafe equipment.
• Follow PPE and chemical/SDS guidance; keep floors dry and safe.

Product Knowledge & Training

• Maintain current knowledge of beans (origin, process, roast), flavor notes, and brew methods; share stories that enhance the guest experience.
• Participate in tastings, cuppings, and trainings; retain and apply new information quickly.
• Support onboarding and cross-training of new team members as assigned.

Cash Handling, Technology & Compliance

• Use POS accurately; manage cash, tips, discounts, comps, and gift cards per policy.
• Follow DOH/health code standards: handwashing, allergen and cross-contact protocols, and temperature control.
• Maintain accurate logs (cleaning tasks, sanitizer PPM, fridge temps) as required.

Food & Pastry Support (as applicable)

• Stage, label, and restock pastries and grab-and-go items; communicate 86s and low pars.
• Heat or finish items to standard; handle utensils and packaging with sanitation best practices.

Requirements

Required Qualifications

6+ months barista or café experience in a high-volume, quality-driven environment preferred; we'll train the right candidate.

Ability to dial in espresso, steam milk to texture, and execute consistent beverages under pressure.

Clear, professional communication and guest-recovery skills; strong organization and pace.

Basic sanitation knowledge; valid Food Handler certification (or ability to obtain).

Comfort with POS systems and Google Workspace a plus.

Reliable attendance and schedule flexibility (early mornings, weekends, holidays).

Working Conditions & Physical Requirements

Stand/walk for extended periods (up to 8+ hours); frequent bending, reaching, and repetitive motions.

Lift/carry up to 35-40 lbs. (milk crates, boxes of beans, brew equipment).

Exposure to hot liquids/steam, refrigeration, and cleaning chemicals; slip-resistant footwear required.

In Return, We Offer You

Competitive hourly pay plus tips (where applicable)

Opportunities for growth, cross-training, and SCA-style development

Employee dining and partner discounts

Access to health & wellness benefits where eligible

Equal Opportunity Employer

José Andrés Group is an Equal Opportunity Employer and participates in the federal E-Verify Program.