Barista - School Cafe

REAL Food re-fined.

Barista - School Cafe | Location: West Valley College – Saratoga, CA 95070

Compensation: $20.50 | Part-Time

Schedule: Monday-Thursday 8:30-2pm

Job Summary

Thomas Cuisine is looking for an enthusiastic Barista to join our growing team at West Valley College. We are hiring a motivated team member to help provide students, staff, and faculty with a premium café experience in a fast-paced, positive environment. This is a perfect opportunity for someone who is passionate about quality beverages, guest service, and being part of a purpose-driven culinary team.

About the Community We Serve

West Valley College is a vibrant higher education campus. Our café provides not only coffee and specialty drinks but also warm connections, outstanding service, and a space where people come together daily. At Thomas Cuisine, we are proud to support student life and faculty wellness through healthy, made-from-scratch options and REAL hospitality.

Your Role and Impact

As a Barista, you are the face of our café and the experience we deliver. Your attention to detail and genuine interactions will help create memorable moments for every guest you serve. Whether preparing handcrafted beverages, operating the register, or assisting with café operations, your role helps bring our REAL Food Mission to life.

What You’ll Do

• Craft espresso drinks, teas, smoothies, and other beverages to exact standards.

• Provide warm and efficient service to students, faculty, and campus guests.

• Operate POS (point-of-sale) systems, process orders, and handle transactions accurately.

• Maintain cleanliness and sanitation of workstations and equipment in line with safety guidelines.

• Assist with inventory, restocking, and opening/closing procedures.

• Uphold Thomas Cuisine’s values of hospitality, teamwork, and culinary integrity.

• Support café events and campus activities as needed.

• Follow all health department regulations, including proper food handling and safety procedures.

• Other duties as assigned.

What You’ll Bring

• Previous barista or food service experience preferred but not required.

• Excellent communication and customer service skills.

• Ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment.

• A team player attitude and a commitment to doing the right thing.

• Flexibility to adapt to changing needs and café volume.

• Current ServSafe® Certification or Food Handler’s Card (or willingness to obtain upon hire).

• High School diploma or GED preferred.

Physical and Sensory Requirements

• This job involves regular exposure to moving mechanical parts and a kitchen environment with fumes, airborne particles, and moderate noise. Employees must have the physical stamina to stand for long periods, lift trays, and perform repetitive tasks. Occasional exposure to wet or humid conditions, extreme temperatures, and vibration may occur. Reasonable accommodations are available for individuals with disabilities.

At Thomas Cuisine, our people are purposeful. They care about food and quality and have a desire to make a positive impact in the world through REAL food. Embark on a rewarding culinary journey with us, where your skills will not only flourish but also contribute significantly to the satisfaction and well-being of our healthcare community.

What We Offer!

• Holiday Premium Pay (Non-Exempt)
• 401(k) /Company Match- specific hours worked during the first 3-months of employment are required in order to be eligible
• On-Demand Pay
• Referral Bonuses

Who We Are

Founded in 1986, Thomas Cuisine is an award-winning, privately held contract food service company. We advocate the healing power of whole foods and believe in preparing scratch-made cuisine fresh each day. Our people are purposeful, they care about food and quality, and have a desire to make a positive impact in the world through REAL food. Embark on a rewarding culinary journey with us, where your skills will not only flourish, but also contribute significantly to the satisfaction and well-being of our growing community.

Our commitment to you

At Thomas Cuisine, we are dedicated to fostering a workplace that is diverse, equitable, inclusive, and where every individual feels a sense of belonging. We know that this commitment is an ongoing journey, and we will strive to improve and adapt as we grow. Our DEIB commitment is not just a statement but a living part of our company culture.

REAL Food | Genuine Service | Enduring Relationships