Barista

Alma; San Luis Obispo (CA); On-site; USD 21,000 - 26,000; Part time

Job summary

ALMA is a neighborhood coffeehouse in San Luis Obispo focused on community, seasonal produce, and genuine hospitality. We are seeking a barista with a true passion for coffee, a warm guest presence, and the ability to stay calm under rushes.

The role emphasizes hospitality, specialty coffee expertise, and teamwork in a busy setting. Flexible mornings, weekends, and holidays are required as part of a supportive cafe team.

Qualifications

• Genuine hospitality and guest connection skills.
• Experience in a specialty coffee environment with manual espresso equipment.

Responsibilities

• Greet guests warmly and provide hospitable service.
• Take orders, answer questions, and suggest menu items.
• Handle payments and operate the POS accurately.
• Serve grab-and-go items with appealing presentation.
• Dial in espresso, pull shots, and ensure latte art quality.
• Monitor drink quality and correct mistakes during service.
• Coordinate with kitchen to keep orders running smoothly.
• Support teammates during busy periods and train new staff.

Skills

Hospitality

Espresso equipment

Attention to detail

Interpersonal skills

Communication

Adaptability

Brewing methods

Latte art

POS system

Cash handling

Food safety

Punctuality

Job description

Job Description: Barista

Reports To: Cafe General Manager

Job Status: Hourly, Non-Exempt

About Us: ALMA ("soul" in Spanish and Portuguese) is a neighborhood coffeehouse built around the heart of a farmers market - rooted in community, seasonal produce from local farms and makers, and genuine hospitality. With an excellent coffee program, baked goods, savory menus, takeout, and a small beer and wine list, we aim to be a warm and welcoming spot for both locals and tourists in San Luis Obispo.

The Role: We're looking for a barista with a genuine passion for coffee, a natural warmth with guests, and the ability to stay calm and efficient during a rush. The ideal candidate is an all-things-coffee enthusiast who keeps calm under pressure, takes pride in every pour, and enjoys the rhythm and community of a neighborhood cafe.

Our three core values shape everything we do: Authenticity, Respect, & Enthusiasm.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities:

Hospitality & Service

• Demonstrate a commitment to providing an outstanding, hospitable experience for every guest. In doing so: greet every guest with warmth; keep service friendly, efficient, and welcoming
• Take orders accurately, answer menu questions, and offer thoughtful suggestions
• Handle payments and operate the POS system with accuracy
• Serve grab and go items quickly, keeping presentation consistent and appealing

Coffee & Bar Service

• Execute drip coffee, espresso based beverages, and manual espresso machine operation with confidence and care
• Dial in espresso, pull consistent shots, and keep high standards for flavor profiles and latte art and drink presentation
• Monitor quality for every drink leaving the bar, correcting mistakes when necessary
• Stay curious and current on brewing methods, seasonal ingredients, and specialty coffee & tea trends

Cafe Operations

• Keep the counter, beverage station, and guest areas stocked, clean, and organized throughout the shift
• Have knowledge of the history & concept of the cafe and sister restaurants and be able to confidently guide guests to sister locations as opportunities arise
• Be thoroughly knowledgeable about all food and beverage menu items and successfully answer all guest inquiries about ingredients and dietary restrictions
• Restock pastries, grab and go, and retail products as needed
• Maintain stock of and prepare all syrups, cold brew, and other batch drinks
• Communicate with the kitchen to coordinate orders and keep service running smoothly
• Support teammates during busy periods (at the register, on the bar, or running food)
• Help train new team members on recipes, workflows, and hospitality standards as needed
• Complete any checklists for FOH positions and service procedures related to your shift
• Report any equipment issues or guest incidents to management promptly
• Clean and sanitize all work areas, equipment, and machinery; at all times

Required Skills and Abilities:

• Genuine hospitality: you enjoy connecting with people and making their day a little better!
• Experience in a specialty coffee environment with a strong grasp of manual espresso equipment
• A sense of urgency and strong attention to detail
• Excellent interpersonal and relationship building skills
• Strong communication skills and a welcoming, collaborative attitude; willingness to jump in wherever needed
• Ability to adapt to changing priorities and manage workloads with minimal direction in high volume environments
• Knowledge of various brewing methods (pour over, batch brew) and tea preparation
• Proven ability to dial in grind/extraction and produce consistent latte art
• Strong ability to prioritize and be a self-starter
• Ability to operate a POS system accurately
• Basic math skills for accurate cash handling and inventory counts
• Ability to multitask and prioritize during a rush without sacrificing quality or kindness
• Knowledge of food safety and sanitation standards; food handler's card required (or willingness to obtain)
• Dependable and punctual, with a flexible schedule including early mornings, weekends, and holidays

Physical Requirements:

• High level of stamina to work on feet for extended periods (be able to work in a standing, upright position for long periods of time up to 8 hours)
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs (ex: coffee bags, milk crates, supply deliveries)
• Frequent bending, reaching, and repetitive hand and wrist motions (tamping, steaming, pouring)
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment with exposure to steam, hot surfaces, and noise