Fairgrounds - Barista

Fairgrounds Coffee and Tea; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Employee discounts

Free food & snacks

Training & development

Flexible schedule

Job summary

A multi-roaster café in Chicago is seeking a full-time Barista dedicated to exceptional coffee and hospitality. The ideal candidate should have strong interpersonal skills and a passion for coffee education, with a proactive approach to teamwork. Responsibilities include preparing high-quality coffee, educating guests, and maintaining a welcoming environment. The role offers opportunities for growth in service and coffee knowledge, along with benefits like employee discounts and onsite training.

Qualifications

• Prior specialty coffee experience preferred but not required.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• A passion for hospitality and coffee education.

Responsibilities

• Prepare espresso drinks, pour-overs, and batch brew.
• Educate guests about tasting notes and brew methods.
• Deliver a welcoming service experience.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Communication skills

Attention to detail

Team-first mentality

Passion for hospitality

Job description

Overview

About Us Fairgrounds Coffee and Tea is a joyful multi-roaster café dedicated to showcasing the best coffees from around the country. We rotate featured roasters monthly and focus on building a thoughtful, community-driven space where exceptional coffee and warm hospitality go hand in hand.

Responsibilities

• Prepare espresso drinks, pour-overs, and batch brew to exacting standards
• Represent rotating roasters and educate guests about tasting notes, origins, and brew methods
• Deliver a warm, welcoming service experience—both behind the bar and on the floor
• Maintain a clean, organized, and efficient work environment
• Assist with daily opening/closing duties and café upkeep
• Collaborate with teammates to ensure smooth service flow and memorable customer moments

What We’re Looking For

• Prior specialty coffee experience preferred but not required
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• A passion for hospitality and coffee education
• A proactive attitude, attention to detail, and a team-first mentality
• Availability to work early mornings, weekends, or holidays as needed

Why Join Us

• Exposure to a rotating lineup of some of the world’s best roasters
• Supportive and inclusive team culture
• Opportunities for growth in service, coffee knowledge, and leadership
• Staff discounts, ongoing training, and access to cuppings and coffee events

Benefits

• Employee discounts
• Free food & snacks
• Training & development
• Flexible schedule
• Employee discount
• Experience: Barista: 1 year (Preferred)
• Shift availability: Day Shift (Preferred)
• Night Shift (Preferred)
• Work Location: In person

Job Details

Job Type: Full-time