Cafe - Barista

WHSmith Careers; Oxford; Hybrid; GBP 12,000 - 18,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Full training and development

Supportive team environment

Opportunities for career progression

Employee benefits in line with policy

Job summary

WHSmith Careers in Oxford is seeking a friendly Barista to join the Costa Coffee team, delivering excellent customer service and crafting high-quality coffee and beverages for every guest.

In a fast-paced shop, you will take orders, process payments, prepare drinks and food, keep the counters clean, manage stock, and uphold health and safety standards while supporting teammates and providing a welcoming experience. Full training will be provided to develop barista skills and career progression.

Qualifications

• Excellent communication and customer service skills.
• Friendly, positive and approachable attitude.
• Good teamwork and time-management skills.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
• Attention to detail and willingness to learn.
• Basic numeracy and cash-handling skills.
• Previous barista or hospitality experience is desirable but not essential.
• Full training will be provided.

Responsibilities

• Welcome customers warmly and provide excellent customer service.
• Take customer orders accurately and process payments using the till system.
• Prepare and serve a variety of hot and cold drinks, including espresso-based coffees, teas and other beverages.
• Prepare and serve food items in line with company standards.
• Operate coffee machines and other equipment safely and efficiently.
• Maintain high standards of cleanliness, hygiene and food safety.
• Restock coffee, milk, cups, food and other supplies when required.
• Follow company procedures for food preparation, storage and allergen management.
• Handle customer questions, feedback and complaints professionally.
• Work effectively as part of a team to ensure smooth daily store operations.
• Support colleagues during busy periods and maintain efficient service.
• Follow health and safety policies and company standards.

Skills

Excellent communication

Customer service

Teamwork

Time management

Attention to detail

Cash handling

Barista experience

Hospitality experience

Job description

Job Purpose

We are looking for a friendly, enthusiastic and customer-focused Barista to join our Costa Coffee team. The successful candidate will be responsible for delivering excellent customer service, preparing high-quality coffee and beverages, maintaining cleanliness and ensuring customers enjoy a welcoming experience.

Key Responsibilities

• Welcome customers warmly and provide excellent customer service.
• Take customer orders accurately and process payments using the till system.
• Prepare and serve a variety of hot and cold drinks, including espresso-based coffees, teas and other beverages.
• Prepare and serve food items in line with company standards.
• Operate coffee machines and other equipment safely and efficiently.
• Maintain high standards of cleanliness, hygiene and food safety.
• Restock coffee, milk, cups, food and other supplies when required.
• Follow company procedures for food preparation, storage and allergen management.
• Handle customer questions, feedback and complaints professionally.
• Work effectively as part of a team to ensure smooth daily store operations.
• Support colleagues during busy periods and maintain efficient service.
• Follow health and safety policies and company standards.

Skills and Qualifications

• Excellent communication and customer service skills.
• Friendly, positive and approachable attitude.
• Good teamwork and time-management skills.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
• Attention to detail and willingness to learn.
• Basic numeracy and cash-handling skills.
• Previous barista or hospitality experience is desirable but not essential.
• Full training will be provided.

Personal Attributes

• Reliable, punctual and hardworking.
• Passionate about coffee and customer service.
• Flexible and adaptable.
• Professional appearance and positive attitude.
• Able to work independently and as part of a team.

Working Conditions

• Shift-based working, including weekends and bank holidays where required.
• Standing for extended periods.
• Working in a busy coffee shop environment.
• Flexibility to support different operational needs.

What We Offer

• Full training and development opportunities.
• Supportive team environment.
• Opportunities for career progression.
• Employee benefits in line with company policy.