Lead Barista - FT

Barnes & Noble; Carle Place (NY); On-site; Full time

Job summary

A leading cafe in New York is seeking a lead barista who is passionate about customer service and team development. In this role, you will oversee barista training, ensure high-quality beverage preparation, and maintain operational standards. Your leadership will inspire your team to create exceptional customer experiences while achieving sales goals. If you thrive in a fast-paced environment and enjoy working with people, this position is for you!

Qualifications

• Demonstrated exemplary performance in previous barista roles.
• Ability to prioritize and multitask effectively.

Responsibilities

• Ensure consistent, friendly, and personalized service.
• Coach and develop team members to achieve sales goals.
• Engage customers and promote sales initiatives.

Skills

Customer Experience

Leadership

Communication

Problem-solving

Multitasking

Education

Previous senior barista experience

Job description

As a lead barista, you make the customer experience exceptional by sharing your passion and enthusiasm for the Cafe with every interaction. You act as a deputy to the cafe manager (CM), coaching, inspiring, and supporting an environment for baristas to grow and develop. Your leadership and coaching support the achievement of sales goals and operational efficiencies. You work closely with the CM to strategize and analyze team efforts, ensuring high-quality beverages and food products for memorable customer experiences. Your role emphasizes putting the customer first in all aspects.

What You Do

1. Model the customer experience: Ensure consistent, friendly, and personalized service, setting an example and training baristas on delivering first-class service.
2. Create a welcoming cafe environment: Maintain a well-stocked bake case, neatly displayed merchandise, and a team that greets all customers with a smile.
3. Understand customer needs: Provide recommendations and insights to improve operations and service quality.
4. Support sales and operational efficiency: Facilitate efficient ordering processes and understand the connection to the P&L.
5. Coach and develop team members: Collaborate with the CM to identify areas for growth and help team members understand the link between results and service.
6. Problem-solving: Resolve issues efficiently and support others by removing obstacles.
7. Engage customers: Promote sales initiatives like sampling, promotions, and the Cafe Mobile App.
8. Visual merchandising: Assist with maintaining visual standards in partnership with the CM.
9. Ensure operational standards: Execute all standards timely, safely, and in compliance with health codes.
10. Protect assets: Follow loss prevention procedures accurately.
11. Effective communication: Provide fair, consistent feedback and uphold company values.
12. Physical activity: Be prepared to stand for long periods, lift, bend, and operate equipment as needed.

Knowledge & Experience

• Understanding of cafe business profitability and operations.
• Excellent service standards and decision-making skills.
• Ability to prioritize, multitask, and adapt quickly.
• Confidence and leadership in directing work and training employees.
• Effective communication, collaboration, and feedback skills.
• Previous senior barista or barista experience demonstrating exemplary performance.

Expected Behaviors

• Prioritize customer experience above all else.
• Develop deep knowledge of the Cafe and market.
• Support financial results and understand business metrics.
• Enjoy working with people, demonstrating organization, patience, and resilience.
• Maintain composure during busy periods, motivate the team, and take responsibility for actions.
• Be receptive to feedback and committed to personal growth.

Notes

The hourly rate for this position starts at $20.50. Barnes & Noble, Inc., is an American bookseller.