Barista

Olympia Coffee Roasting Company; Tacoma (WA); On-site; USD 2,066,000 - 2,893,000; Part time

Job summary

Olympia Coffee Roasting Company is seeking a part-time Barista in Tacoma, WA. You will craft beverages to high standards, deliver warm customer service, and help maintain a clean and welcoming cafe environment.

Ideal candidates bring a passion for coffee, strong work ethic, and the ability to stay calm under pressure while collaborating with a team across cafe operations and shifts.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated passion for coffee and hospitality.
• Strong work ethic and willingness to engage in all aspects of cafe operations.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Able to stay calm and collaborative under pressure.
• Curious and open to ongoing learning and development.

Responsibilities

• Prepare high-quality beverages to Olympia Coffee standards for in‑cafe and mobile orders.
• Provide warm, genuine, and attentive customer service.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe cafe environment during shifts.
• Assist with stocking, prep, and cafe operations to support service.

Skills

Hospitality

Customer service

Communication

Teamwork

Learning mindset

Job description

Part time Barista, Olympia CoffeePosition OverviewBaristas at Olympia Coffee are hospitality professionals who contribute to every aspect of daily cafe operations. This role includes customer-facing service as well as essential behind-the-scenes work that keeps the cafe clean, functional, well-stocked, and operating at a high standard. Baristas are expected to take shared responsibility for the space, equipment, and guest experience.General ResponsibilitiesThe Barista:Contributes to a positive, respectful, and inclusive team cultureUpholds Olympia Coffee’s standards for hospitality, coffee quality, and professionalismParticipates in the ongoing development and care of the cafe and its systemsMaintains strong working knowledge of coffee, food, and retail productsCommunicates clearly with all team members to support smooth daily operationsOn-Bar & Service ResponsibilitiesWork a variety of scheduled shifts per week, including opening, mid, and/or closing shifts, based on the operational needs of the businessPerform standard bar operations, including register, espresso bar, batch brew, and drink production for both in cafe service and mobile orders.Consistently and efficiently prepare high-quality beverages to Olympia Coffee standardsProvide warm, genuine, and attentive customer serviceFoster a welcoming, inclusive, and calm cafe environment, even during high-volume periodsTroubleshoot service flow, drink execution, and guest needs in real timeDemonstrate effective conflict management and de-escalation skills when navigating challenging interactions with guests, maintaining safety, professionalism, and a welcoming environmentCafe Cleanliness & Facility CareMaintain a clean, organized, and safe cafe, both inside and outside, throughout each shiftComplete daily, weekly, and periodic deep-cleaning tasks, including but not limited to:Dishwashing and dish organization, bar, cafe, and restroom cleaning, floor care, trash, and recyclingFollow established cleaning schedules and sanitation standardsEquipment Care & MaintenanceProperly use, clean, and care for espresso machines, grinders, brewers, and other cafe equipmentPerform routine maintenance tasks as trained (backflushing, grinder cleaning, calibration support, etc.)Identify, troubleshoot, and communicate equipment issues promptly to leadershipInventory, Stocking & PrepAssist with stocking and restocking cafe supplies, retail items, and bar ingredientsSupport inventory accuracy through organization and communicationParticipate in prep work as needed to support service (syrups, batching, etc.)Help maintain efficient systems for product rotation, storage, and waste reductionPhysical & Environmental RequirementsThis position is active and requires regular physical engagement throughout each shift. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.Ability to stand and move throughout the cafe for extended periods (typically 6+ hours)Frequent walking, reaching, bending, twisting, and squatting during service and cleaning tasksRepetitive hand and wrist movements related to espresso preparation, grinding, tamping, pouring, and dishwashingAbility to lift, carry, and move items such as milk crates, coffee bags, boxes, and equipment (up to approximately 40–50 lbs)Comfort working in close quarters behind the bar and navigating tight service spacesAbility to work at varying speeds, including sustained periods of high volume and fast-paced serviceExposure to common cafe conditions, including heat, steam, water, cleaning chemicals, and food allergensVisual and auditory attention required to monitor equipment, timers, guests, and coworkers simultaneouslyManual dexterity needed for equipment operation, cleaning, and maintenance tasksDesired CharacteristicsPassion for coffee, hospitality, and shared workStrong work ethic and willingness to engage in all aspects of cafe operationsDemonstrated leadership or growth mindset in technical barista skillsExcellent interpersonal and communication skills across diverse situationsAbility to stay professional, calm, and collaborative under pressureComfortable working in a team-centered, feedback-oriented environmentCurious, adaptable, and open to ongoing learning and developmentAbility and willingness to cross train at other Olympia Coffee and/or Moonrise Bakery locations