Barista

About the role

The Barista at The Ranch at Rock Creek is a multi-purpose role designed to provide expert coffee service, support of dining room operations, and cooperation with bar team to develop juices, drinks, and batches.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and serve a variety of specialty coffee and tea beverages, including espresso-based drinks, pour-overs, and seasonal specialties.
• Be knowledgeable of coffee origins, roast profiles, and preparation methods to educate and assist guests.
• Calibrate espresso machines and grinders daily to ensure consistent flavor and quality.
• Assist servers in the delivery of food and beverages to guest tables with professional etiquette.
• Maintain the cleanliness and organization of the coffee station, including restocking milks, syrups, and dry goods.
• Deep clean espresso equipment, carafes, and service areas at the end of every shift.
• Take initiative to be aware of bar ingredient par-levels and replenish as needed.
• Produce juice in bulk for use in dining room and behind the bar.

Requirements

• Prior experience as a barista in a specialty coffee shop or high-end hospitality environment.
• Knowledge of manual espresso machines, milk steaming techniques, and latte art.
• Ability to multitask between beverage preparation and dining room support during peak service hours.
• Excellent verbal communication skills to coordinate with both the kitchen and front-of-house teams.
• Strong "floor awareness" to anticipate guest needs and assist servers before being asked.
• Ability to stand and walk for 8 to 10-hour shifts and carry heavy service trays across uneven ranch terrain.
• Capability to lift up to 30 lbs, including crates of milk or large coffee carafes.
• Commitment to premium grooming and uniform standards consistent with a Forbes Five-Star property.
• Flexibility to work early mornings, weekends, and holidays as required by ranch occupancy.
• Knowledge of health and safety regulations regarding food handling and equipment sanitation.
• Proactive mindset to troubleshoot minor equipment issues or identify inventory needs.
• Ability to navigate various service environments, including the Buckle Barn, Blue Canteen, or outdoor event spaces.