Coffee Shop Barista Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the age of artisanal experiences, the focus on coffee shop baristas has never been more intense.

The coffee culture marches forward, and with each pour, the demand for skilled hands who can craft, refine, and serve our caffeinated delicacies increases.

But let’s break it down: What’s truly expected from a coffee shop barista?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the essence of this role,
• A café owner outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply captivated by the art of coffee making,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable coffee shop barista job description template, designed for straightforward posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Coffee Shop Barista Duties and Responsibilities

Coffee Shop Baristas play a key role in delivering an excellent customer experience by making quality beverages and providing exceptional customer service.

They are expected to have a thorough knowledge of coffee varieties and the equipment used in coffee production.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Welcoming customers, informing them about specials or new items, answering questions, and accepting orders and payments
• Preparing and serving coffee and tea drinks that adhere to the shop’s recipes and preparation techniques
• Maintaining a clean and sanitized work station following all health and safety guidelines
• Restocking supplies in the front and back of the shop as needed
• Learning about brewing methods, beverage blends, food preparation, and presentation techniques to improve food quality
• Updating display cases to boost sales
• Operating cash registers and credit card machines
• Fielding customer complaints or questions
• Maintaining inventory and notifying manager of low stock
• Training and supporting the training of new staff members as required

 

Coffee Shop Barista Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated and passionate Barista to join our coffee shop.

The Barista will be responsible for brewing various styles of coffee and tea, serving bakery items, maintaining clean workstations, and ensuring the shop maintains a warm and welcoming environment.

Our ideal candidate is a fast-paced individual with excellent customer service skills, a deep love for coffee, and an understanding of coffee brewing techniques.

 

Responsibilities

• Prepare and serve coffee and tea drinks following recipes
• Maintain a clean and sanitized work station
• Follow health and safety guidelines
• Adhere to recipes and presentations for food and beverage items
• Be punctual and able to observe regular and consistent attendance
• Contribute to a positive team environment
• Restock items as needed and maintain a well-organized workspace
• Provide exceptional and friendly customer service
• Take customer orders accurately

 

Qualifications

• Previous barista experience is a plus
• Knowledge of brewing methods and procedures
• Ability to handle a busy atmosphere
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• High school diploma or equivalent
• Ability to process information and merchandise through the point of sale system
• Availability to work around peak hours, including nights, early mornings, weekends, and holidays

 

Benefits

• Employee discount
• Flexible schedule
• Training and skill development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Coffee Shop Barista
• Work Environment: This job operates in a fast-paced coffee shop environment. The role requires physical mobility and includes standing, walking, bending, and lifting up to 50 pounds.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Coffee Shop Manager or Shift Supervisor.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $7.25 minimum to $12.00 maximum per hour
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time or Part-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Coffee Shop Barista Do?

Coffee Shop Baristas typically work in coffee shops, cafes, and similar establishments where coffee is served.

Their main job is to prepare and serve a variety of coffee drinks, such as espressos, cappuccinos, lattes, and other beverages.

They are proficient in using coffee machines and other kitchen equipment to create these drinks.

Baristas also take customer orders and process payments.

They provide excellent customer service, catering to the needs and preferences of each customer, ensuring that each drink they create meets the customer’s individual taste.

In addition to making coffee, baristas may also serve food items such as pastries or sandwiches.

They often have a role in maintaining the cleanliness of the coffee shop, restocking supplies, and ensuring that all health and safety guidelines are met.

Good baristas are also knowledgeable about the different types of coffee beans and brewing methods.

They often engage customers in conversation about their offerings, providing advice and suggestions based on the customer’s preferences.

Many customers rely on their barista to start their day off right with the perfect cup of coffee, and the barista’s role is crucial in providing a positive and welcoming atmosphere in the coffee shop.

 

Coffee Shop Barista Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Coffee Shop Barista should have a range of skills and qualifications that match with your job description, which include:

• Excellent customer service skills to create a welcoming environment for customers, respond to their needs, and manage transactions.
• Communication skills to accurately take customer orders, relay information to other staff members, and explain menu items to customers.
• Knowledge of coffee beans, brewing methods, and latte art to deliver a variety of high-quality beverages.
• Attention to detail to ensure each drink meets the company’s standards and the customer’s specifications.
• Time management skills to balance customer service with drink preparation during busy periods.
• Physical abilities that allow them to stand for long periods and handle heavy machinery.
• Cleanliness and organization skills to maintain a tidy work area and adhere to health and safety regulations.
• Interpersonal skills to build relationships with regular customers and work well with team members.

 

Coffee Shop Barista Experience Requirements

Potential baristas may begin with little to no experience, often learning on the job.

They may also gain essential practical skills through part-time or temporary roles in other coffee shops or restaurants, where they learn to operate an espresso machine and other coffee-making tools.

Typically, a role as a barista requires around 1 to 2 years of experience for intermediate positions.

In these roles, baristas can further develop their knowledge in coffee brewing techniques, latte art skills, and customer service abilities.

Baristas with more than 3 years of experience are considered highly skilled and knowledgeable.

They often have a deep understanding of different types of coffee beans, brewing methods, and equipment maintenance.

At this level, they may also have the ability to train new employees.

Those with over 5 years of experience are often ready for managerial roles within a coffee shop.

This experience might include responsibilities such as staff management, inventory control, and developing and implementing training programs for new employees.

 

Coffee Shop Barista Education and Training Requirements

Baristas typically have a high school diploma or equivalent.

Formal education beyond high school is not typically required, but may be beneficial in demonstrating customer service and communication skills.

Training for baristas is often done on the job, where they learn the specific processes and procedures of the coffee shop, including how to use and maintain espresso machines and other equipment.

They also learn about different coffee beans and brew methods, how to prepare a variety of coffee-based drinks, and how to properly serve customers.

Some baristas may choose to attend barista training programs or workshops, which can provide more in-depth knowledge and skills.

These programs often cover topics such as the history of coffee, the science behind espresso brewing, latte art, and advanced customer service techniques.

While not typically required, there are certifications available for baristas who want to demonstrate their knowledge and skills.

The Specialty Coffee Association offers several levels of certification, from the Foundation Level for beginners to the Professional Level for experienced baristas.

Regardless of formal training or education, successful baristas often have excellent customer service skills, an attention to detail, and a passion for coffee.

 

Coffee Shop Barista Salary Expectations

A Coffee Shop Barista earns an average wage of $11.63 (USD) per hour.

The actual earnings can vary based on factors such as experience, the location of the coffee shop, and the size and reputation of the employing company.

 

Coffee Shop Barista Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Coffee Shop Barista need?

A Coffee Shop Barista needs to have excellent communication and customer service skills to be able to interact with customers effectively.

They should have a strong understanding of coffee types and preparation methods, as well as the ability to operate different coffee machines and grinders.

Attention to detail, good manual dexterity, and cleanliness are also crucial skills for a Barista.

 

Do Baristas need a degree?

No, Baristas do not need a degree.

However, they do need to have a good understanding of coffee beans, brewing methods, and other coffee-related products.

This knowledge can be acquired through on-the-job training, industry-specific courses, or previous experience in a similar role.

 

What should you look for in a Barista resume?

When looking at a Barista’s resume, the first thing to check is their experience in a similar role.

Check if they have experience operating coffee machines, preparing different types of coffee, and providing excellent customer service.

A good Barista should also have knowledge of safety and sanitation regulations.

 

What qualities make a good Barista?

A good Barista is passionate about coffee and is always eager to learn more about it.

They should have excellent customer service skills and the ability to handle multiple orders at once.

Patience, professionalism, and a positive attitude, even under pressure, are also qualities that make a good Barista.

 

What is the physical demand for a Barista?

Baristas are usually required to stand for long periods and may need to lift heavy items such as bags of coffee beans or crates of milk.

They should also have good manual dexterity to prepare drinks and operate coffee machines.

The role can be physically demanding, especially during peak hours.

 

Do Baristas need to have a certificate?

No, Baristas do not need to have a certification to work.

However, having a Barista certification or a certificate in food handling can be an added advantage and make a candidate more appealing to employers.

These certifications demonstrate a Barista’s commitment to their role and their understanding of coffee preparation and safety regulations.

 

Conclusion

So there you have it.

Today, we’ve brewed up the truth about what it really means to be a coffee shop barista.

And guess what?

It’s not just about making coffee.

It’s about creating a welcoming atmosphere, one cup at a time.

With our ready-to-go coffee shop barista job description template and real-world examples, you’re fully equipped to make your move.

But why stop there?

Steep yourself further with our job description generator. It’s your next step to crafting precise job listings or perfecting your resume to brew-tiful standards.

Remember:

Every cup of coffee is a part of a larger experience.

Let’s brew that experience. Together.

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