Opening Barista: Craft Coffee & Warm Guest Experience

Fairgrounds Coffee and Tea; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 20,000 - 28,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Employee discounts

Flexible schedule

Free food & snacks

Training & development

Job summary

Fairgrounds Coffee & Tea is opening a Bucktown café and seeks enthusiastic Baristas to craft beverages and deliver warm, guest-focused service. You will engage guests, answer questions, and contribute to a welcoming experience as part of our opening team.

Experience in specialty coffee or hospitality is preferred. We value reliability, teamwork, strong communication, and a passion for coffee. Training will be provided as part of onboarding.

Qualifications

• Prior specialty coffee, barista, or hospitality experience preferred.
• A genuine passion for coffee, hospitality, and connecting with people.
• A positive, reliable, and team-oriented attitude.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to multitask and work efficiently in a fast-paced environment.
• Attention to detail and commitment to beverage quality and cleanliness.
• Availability for early mornings, weekends, or holidays as needed.
• Food Handler Certification or willingness to obtain one as required.

Responsibilities

• Create a warm, welcoming environment and deliver friendly, attentive service.
• Assist guests with orders, menu questions, and thoughtful recommendations.
• Build positive guest connections and contribute to memorable café experiences.
• Craft high-quality coffee, tea, and specialty beverages according to Fairgrounds' recipes and quality standards.
• Develop knowledge of our beverage offerings, ingredients, and brewing methods to confidently assist guests.
• Support daily opening and closing procedures, preparation, restocking, and café upkeep.
• Follow food safety, sanitation, and operational procedures.
• Collaborate with teammates and leadership to ensure smooth daily operations.
• Communicate proactively and support teammates during busy periods.
• Take initiative, welcome feedback, and demonstrate a willingness to learn.

Skills

Barista experience

Hospitality mindset

Customer service

Job description

Fairgrounds Coffee & Tea is opening a Bucktown café and seeks enthusiastic Baristas to craft beverages and deliver warm, guest-focused service. You will engage guests, answer questions, and contribute to a welcoming experience as part of our opening team.

Experience in specialty coffee or hospitality is preferred. We value reliability, teamwork, strong communication, and a passion for coffee. Training will be provided as part of onboarding.