Alfred Highland Park PT Barista

The Barista

Job Title: Part-Time Barista
Location: Highland Park
Reports To: Cafe Manager
FLSA Status: Non-exempt
Wage: $18.67/hr + tips ($22.50 - $25.50/hr approximately)

About the Role

The Barista is responsible for creating an exceptional guest experience through outstanding hospitality, product quality, and efficient cafe operations. This role prepares high-quality coffee, tea, and food offerings while fostering a welcoming and energetic environment for both guests and team members.

Responsibilities

• Welcome guests with warmth and hospitality while delivering an elevated customer experience.
• Guide customers through beverage and food offerings, answer questions thoughtfully, and build genuine rapport.
• Handle phone inquiries, accurately process orders, and support mobile ordering operations.
• Maintain a calm, professional, and welcoming presence during high-volume periods.
• Prepare consistent, high-quality beverages and food items in accordance with Alfred recipes and standards.
• Operate, clean, and maintain coffee equipment while ensuring all beverage and food preparation areas remain clean, organized, and sanitary.
• Develop knowledge of coffee and tea origins, flavor profiles, and preparation methods.
• Foster a positive team environment through active listening, clear communication, and a solutions-oriented mindset.
• Partner with leadership and teammates to address operational needs and maintain consistency across shifts.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and fully stocked café environment throughout each shift.
• Affix additional tasks that may be assigned to meet company goals.
• Follow all company policies and procedures related to food safety, sanitation, hygiene, and café organization.
• Report safety hazards, incidents, or operational concerns to the Management.

Requirements

• Previous cafe, coffee, or restaurant experience is preferred, but not required.
• Possess passion for hospitality and creating positive customer experiences in a fast-paced, customer-facing environment.
• Show strong communication, interpersonal, and relationship-building skills.
• Be able to thrive in a collaborative team setting while working efficiently under pressure.
• Display a positive attitude, strong work ethic, and eagerness to learn and grow.
• Show flexibility to attend quarterly team meetings, trainings, or company events that may occasionally take place outside of regular scheduled shifts.
• Maintain reliable attendance and consistent availability, including a minimum commitment of three shifts per week.
• Be able to lift and carry up to 20 pounds without assistance.
• Move quickly and efficiently throughout the café in a fast-paced environment.
• Have strong close-range vision and attention to detail for drink preparation, cash handling, and order accuracy.
• Bend, squat, reach, and perform cleaning, stocking, and other operational tasks as needed.
• Remain on feet for extended periods throughout scheduled shifts.
• Be comfortable operating a POS system, cash register, or tablet device to accurately process customer orders and payments.
• Show the hand dexterity and coordination needed to safely and efficiently operate espresso machines, steamers, grinders, and other café equipment while preparing beverages to company standards.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Ability to read, write, and understand English.

Skills

• Excellent customer service skills.
• Strong organizational and multitasking abilities.
• Knowledge of coffee and tea preparation methods.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Benefits

• Free shift drinks and employee discounts
• Creative and collaborative team culture
• Open Path Collective - Therapy Membership Reimbursement
• Employee referral bonuses
• Growth and advancement opportunities

Pay

$18.67/hr + tips ($22.50 - $25.50/hr approximately)

Schedule

Shifts are flexible and can vary based on business needs.