AM Barista – Seasonal

Position Summary

Palm House is seeking a Seasonal AM Barista to help guests begin their day with expertly prepared beverages and warm, personalized service. This role combines coffee craftsmanship, efficient service, and attention to presentation to create an inviting morning experience. The ideal candidate is passionate about coffee and hospitality, brings energy and reliability to early morning shifts, and takes pride in delivering consistent quality. From remembering a returning guest's favorite order to preparing a beautifully finished cappuccino, the AM Barista makes everyday moments feel special. This position is seasonal, with employment anticipated from October through May. Employment is expected to conclude at the end of the seasonal period.

Key Responsibilities

Coffee & Beverage Preparation

• Prepare espresso-based drinks, brewed coffee, tea, and other beverages according to approved recipes and presentation standards.
• Operate espresso machines, grinders, brewers, and related equipment safely and correctly.
• Monitor espresso extraction, milk texture, beverage temperature, and overall quality.
• Accommodate beverage preferences and approved modifications accurately.
• Maintain knowledge of coffee selections, ingredients, milk alternatives, and menu offerings.

Personalized Guest Service

• Welcome guests promptly with a warm greeting and attentive service.
• Offer thoughtful recommendations based on guest preferences.
• Take orders accurately and communicate clearly about preparation times.
• Recognize returning guests and remember preferences when possible.
• Serve pastries and other designated food offerings according to hotel procedures.
• Address guest concerns promptly and involve a manager when appropriate.
• Follow allergy procedures and verify ingredient questions rather than making assumptions.

Opening Preparation & Station Care

• Complete early morning opening duties so equipment, supplies, and service areas are ready before service begins.
• Keep coffee stations, counters, displays, and guest-facing areas clean and organized.
• Stock coffee, tea, milk, cups, glassware, and other essentials throughout the shift.
• Follow food safety procedures for storage, labeling, rotation, and temperature control.
• Clean and sanitize equipment according to training and manufacturer guidelines.
• Monitor inventory, minimize waste, and report shortages or equipment concerns.
• Complete assigned side work and provide an organized handover to the next shift.

Accuracy & Teamwork

• Enter orders and process cash, card, and room-charge payments accurately.
• Follow cash-handling, payment security, and room-charge verification procedures.
• Coordinate beverage preparation with Servers and other Food & Beverage colleagues.
• Participate in pre-shift briefings and training sessions.
• Uphold Palm House standards for professional appearance, sanitation, and Forbes-aligned service.

Requirements

Experience & Knowledge

• Previous barista experience required; luxury hotel, resort, or specialty coffee experience preferred.
• Working knowledge of espresso preparation, milk steaming, brewing methods, and beverage recipes.
• Experience operating and cleaning commercial coffee equipment.
• Familiarity with milk alternatives, common beverage ingredients, and allergy precautions.
• Experience using point-of-sale systems and processing payments preferred.
• Understanding of food safety and sanitation practices.
• Ability to complete required food safety training.

Skills & Abilities

• A warm, professional demeanor and strong communication skills.
• Passion for coffee quality, consistent preparation, and personalized service.
• Attention to detail when preparing beverages and taking orders.
• Ability to manage multiple orders efficiently during busy morning periods.
• Strong organization and commitment to a clean workstation.
• A collaborative attitude and willingness to support the Food & Beverage team.
• Punctuality, reliability, and consistent follow-through.

Availability & Working Conditions

• Availability for seasonal employment from October through May, with employment expected to conclude at the end of the season.
• Availability for early morning and daytime shifts, including weekends and holidays.
• Ability to arrive for scheduled opening shifts and prepare the station before service.
• Comfort working in a busy environment around hot beverages, steam, and coffee equipment.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to perform the essential functions of the position, with or without reasonable accommodation, including:
• Standing and walking for extended periods throughout a shift.
• Performing repetitive hand movements when preparing beverages and operating equipment.
• Safely handling hot liquids, pitchers, cups, and glassware.
• Bending, reaching, and stooping to retrieve supplies and clean service areas.
• Lifting and moving supplies using safe handling practices and assistance when needed.

Join Our Team

Bring your passion for coffee and genuine hospitality to Palm House this season. Join a team that values your contributions and takes pride in making every guest's morning memorable.