Barista

Work Initiatives; Cairns Regional; On-site; AUD 70,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

Work Initiatives in Cairns is seeking a full-time Barista to deliver quality beverages and friendly service. You will operate espresso equipment, prepare a range of coffees and assist with daily cafe operations.

Candidates should hold AQF Cert II or higher with 12 months of relevant experience, or two years if no qualification. You will welcome customers, take orders, process sales, and maintain stock and equipment while keeping the cafe clean and compliant with safety procedures.

Qualifications

• AQF Cert II or higher required; 12 months of relevant experience, or at least two years if no qualification.
• Experience in a cafe environment is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Welcomes customers, takes orders and processes sales.
• Operates coffee equipment and prepares a variety of beverages.
• Maintains clean and organised service areas; follows food safety procedures.
• Trains junior staff in coffee making.
• Collaborates with kitchen and front-of-house staff to manage busy periods.
• Handles cash and eftpos payments.
• Restocks supplies and maintains equipment.

Skills

Coffee making

Customer service

Food safety

Communication

Education

AQF Cert II or higher

Tools

Espresso machines

Grinders

POS system

Job description

We have a full time position available for a Barista in Cairns, QLD 4870.

SKILLS

The role requires you to hold at least a relevant AQF Cert II or above and 12 months of relevant employment experience. If no relevant qualification, at least two years of relevant employment experience is required.

RESPONSIBILITIES

As a Barista, you play an important role in creating an enjoyable café experience through quality beverages and friendly customer service. Your responsibilities include welcoming customers, taking orders accurately, operating coffee equipment and preparing a variety of drinks to a consistently high standard. You will also maintain clean and organised service areas, follow food safety procedures and work closely with your team to support efficient daily operations. Your attention to detail, enthusiasm for coffee and commitment to developing your skills will contribute to customer satisfaction and the success of our café.

TASKS

• Select and grind coffee beans and operate espresso machines, grinders and brewing equipment to prepare consistently high-quality coffees, including lattes, cappuccinos and other specialty beverages.
• Prepare juices and smoothies and special beverages and products in the bar area.
• Take customer orders and process sales through the point-of-sale system.
• Perform floor duties such as running out coffee orders and special drinks to customer tables.
• Handle cash and eftpos payments.
• Clean and maintain coffee machines, grinders and bar equipment, including backflushing machines, cleaning steam wands and descaling equipment as required.
• Maintain clean and organised beverage preparation and service areas, wash glassware and clean counters, tables and floors.
• Monitor and replenish coffee beans, milk, syrups, beverage supplies and service items, and restock shelves, refrigerators and drink dispensers.
• Check ingredient quality and freshness, store products correctly and rotate stock to minimise waste.
• Promote specialty coffees, seasonal beverages, menu items and using product knowledge to guide recommendations.
• Coordinate with kitchen and front-of-house staff to manage orders and maintain efficient service during busy periods.
• Follow food safety, hygiene, workplace safety and responsible service of alcohol requirements.
• Train junior staff in coffee making and all tasks in the coffee area

ADDITONAL ATTRIBUTES

• Works calmly and efficiently during busy periods.
• Reliable both independently and within a team.
• Sound knowledge of coffee and brewing techniques.
• Friendly service and clear communication.
• Careful beverage preparation and equipment handling.
• Practical problem-solving and organisational skills.

SALARY

Annual salary of $70,000 - $80,000 based on experience.