Barista
Culver City, CA LA
Baristas craft consistently excellent coffee and tea beverages while delivering warm, anticipatory hospitality. You'll dial-in espresso, steam milk to texture, execute non-coffee drinks, maintain a spotless workstation, manage par levels and restocking,and educate guests—upholding JAG quality, speed, and sanitation standards during every service.
Guest Experience & Sales
- Greet guests with warmth; guide selections and offer thoughtful recommendations, pairings, and upgrades.
- Execute orders accurately and quickly; manage modifiers, milk alternatives, and sweetness levels to preference.
- Resolve guest concerns with empathy; escalate to leadership when needed.
Beverage Preparation & Quality
- Dial in espresso daily (dose, yield, time) and calibrate throughout service based on bean age and environmental changes.
- Steam milk to correct temperature and microfoam texture; pour consistent latte art where applicable.
- Prepare brewed coffee, pour-over, cold brew, teas, matcha, specialty and seasonal beverages to spec.
- Maintain recipe and presentation standards; taste and adjust as appropriate.
Station Readiness & Sidework
- Set, stock, and maintain station pars (beans, dairy/alternatives, syrups, powders, garnishes, cups/lids, napkins).
- Complete opening/closing and deep-clean tasks; keep bar, pastry case, and service areas organized and spotless.
- Rotate product with FIFO; label/date all perishable items and track hold times.
Equipment Care & Safety
- Operate and maintain espresso machines, grinders, brewers, kettles, blenders, nitro/cold brew systems, and dish/glass washers.
- Perform routine care (purge/flush, backflush, wipe wands, clean screens/baskets, calibrate grinders); report malfunctions and tag out unsafe equipment.
- Follow PPE and chemical/SDS guidance; keep floors dry and safe.
Product Knowledge & Training
- Maintain current knowledge of beans (origin, process, roast), flavor notes, and brew methods; share stories that enhance the guest experience.
- Participate in tastings, cuppings, and trainings; retain and apply new information quickly.
- Support onboarding and cross-training of new team members as assigned.
Cash Handling, Technology & Compliance
- Use POS accurately; manage cash, tips, discounts, comps, and gift cards per policy.
- Follow DOH/health code standards: handwashing, allergen and cross-contact protocols, and temperature control.
- Maintain accurate logs (cleaning tasks, sanitizer PPM, fridge temps) as required.
Food & Pastry Support (as applicable)
- Stage, label, and restock pastries and grab-and-go items; communicate 86s and low pars.
- Heat or finish items to standard; handle utensils and packaging with sanitation best practices.
Required Qualifications
6+ months barista or café experience in a high-volume, quality-driven environment preferred; we'll train the right candidate.
Ability to dial in espresso, steam milk to texture, and execute consistent beverages under pressure.
Clear, professional communication and guest-recovery skills; strong organization and pace.
Basic sanitation knowledge; valid Food Handler certification (or ability to obtain).
Comfort with POS systems and Google Workspace a plus.
Reliable attendance and schedule flexibility (early mornings, weekends, holidays).
Working Conditions & Physical Requirements
Stand/walk for extended periods (up to 8+ hours); frequent bending, reaching, and repetitive motions.
Lift/carry up to 35–40 lbs. (milk crates, boxes of beans, brew equipment).
Exposure to hot liquids/steam, refrigeration, and cleaning chemicals; slip-resistant footwear required.
In Return, We Offer You
Competitive hourly pay plus tips (where applicable)
Opportunities for growth, cross-training, and SCA-style development
Employee dining and partner discounts
Access to health & wellness benefits where eligible
Equal Opportunity Employer
José Andrés Group is an Equal Opportunity Employer and participates in the federal E-Verify Program.