Hospitality Associate: Café, Barista & Events

The Wonderful Company LLC; Bakersfield (CA); On-site; USD 26,000 - 29,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical coverage

Vision and dental plans

401k with match

Career advancement opportunities

Mentorship program

Wellness resources and employee groups

Job summary

The Wonderful Company’s La Cocina café in Shafter, CA, seeks a friendly Front of House Associate to deliver exceptional guest experiences. You’ll prepare and serve beverages, assist customers, and support daily FOH operations for a welcoming cafe environment.

Role requires 6 months to 1 year in food service, GED or high school diploma, and ability to lift up to 50 lbs. Shift Mon–Fri; pay $19–$21/hr with potential for growth.

Qualifications

• 6 months to 1 year of previous work experience in food service, barista, hospitality or a related customer service role preferred.
• GED or high school diploma required.
• Valid driver's license and acceptable driving record required, as this position involves operating company vehicles.
• Valid Food Handler Card or ServSafe certification required, or ability to obtain within the first 60 days of employment.
• Ability to stand for extended periods, bend, lift, and carry up to 50 lbs.
• Food Safety and/or food handler training or certification; awareness of local, state, and federal health and sanitation laws.
• Basic knowledge of food and beverage preparation, including coffee techniques.
• Understanding of proper use and maintenance of café equipment, including espresso machines, grinders, brewers, refrigeration, and kitchen tools.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment with a positive attitude.
• A strong commitment to exceptional customer service and attention to detail.
• Excellent communication and active listening skills to effectively interact with both customers and coworkers.
• Problem-solving ability and openness to take direction.
• Conversational Spanish is desired but not required.

Responsibilities

• Greets customers with a friendly, enthusiastic, and positive attitude—always with a smile—creating a welcoming environment that encourages repeat visits.
• Takes and prepares coffee shop orders accurately and efficiently.
• Operates registers and communicates clearly with customers about daily specials, updates, and upcoming events.
• Prepares daily specialty drinks, including espresso beverages, in-house coffee syrups, freshly squeezed fruit juices and wellness shots while working in a safe and organized manner.
• Assists with prepping fresh fruit for the Grab-and-Go area.
• Plays a key role in supporting both onsite and offsite catering events including tracking, prep, delivery, setup, service, and tear down as needed.
• Helps Front of House Supervisor track inventory and restock supplies for FOH operations.
• Follows proper food handling techniques and physical safety rules.
• Ensures all FOH equipment is properly functioning and identifies any repairs or maintenance needs, then reports to FOH Supervisor.
• Assists with keeping all service and storage areas clean, sanitized, and well-organized.
• Communicates customer feedback to managers and recommends new menu items or improvements.
• Supports tasks assigned by the Food Service Manager and/or Front of House Supervisor to successfully operate Wonderful La Cocina Restaurant.
• Perform food deliveries and pickups as needed using a company-provided vehicle while adhering to company policies, safe driving practices, and all applicable traffic laws.

Skills

Customer service

Barista

Communication

POS cash handling

Food safety

Espresso preparation

Teamwork

Bilingual Spanish

Education

GED or high school diploma

Tools

POS registers

Espresso machines

Coffee grinders

Job description

The Wonderful Company’s La Cocina café in Shafter, CA, seeks a friendly Front of House Associate to deliver exceptional guest experiences. You’ll prepare and serve beverages, assist customers, and support daily FOH operations for a welcoming cafe environment.

Role requires 6 months to 1 year in food service, GED or high school diploma, and ability to lift up to 50 lbs. Shift Mon–Fri; pay $19–$21/hr with potential for growth.