Barista

We are looking for a skilled and customer-focused Barista to join our live bakery and café team. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience in coffee preparation, operating espresso machines, and managing live counter operations while maintaining high standards of quality, hygiene, and exceptional customer service. This role demands attention to detail, efficiency during busy periods, and a passion for delivering an outstanding beverage experience to customers.

Key Responsibilities
Prepare and serve a wide range of hot and cold beverages, including espresso, cappuccino, latte, americano, mocha, iced coffee, and specialty drinks. Operate and maintain espresso machines, coffee grinders, blenders, and other related equipment with expertise. Demonstrate proficiency in espresso extraction, milk steaming, milk texturing, and basic latte art techniques. Manage live beverage counter operations efficiently, especially during peak hours, ensuring a smooth workflow.

Ensure consistency in beverage recipes, portion sizes, taste, temperature, and presentation. Recommend coffee, beverages, and complementary bakery items to customers to enhance their experience. Collaborate closely with bakery and service teams to ensure timely preparation and delivery of orders. Maintain cleanliness and hygiene standards at the coffee station, including equipment, utensils, and work surfaces.

Monitor inventory levels of coffee beans, milk, syrups, cups, and other consumables to maintain adequate stock and minimize wastage. Follow FIFO principles, proper product storage, and comply with food safety regulations. Handle customer orders, special requests, and complaints professionally and courteously. Adhere strictly to approved standard operating procedures (SOPs), recipes, hygiene protocols, and operational guidelines. Assist with opening and closing duties, including cleaning equipment and daily stock reconciliation.

Required Qualifications
Candidates must have a minimum of Intermediate qualification. Relevant hospitality or barista certifications will be considered an advantage. A proven track record of 2 to 4 years of hands-on barista experience in cafés, bakeries, coffee shops, or premium retail food environments is essential. Strong knowledge of espresso-based beverages, coffee preparation techniques, and beverage presentation is required. Practical experience with commercial espresso machines and grinders is necessary.

A solid understanding of food safety standards, personal hygiene, and beverage cost control is vital. Excellent communication, customer service, and teamwork skills are important to thrive in this role. Candidates should demonstrate professional grooming, punctuality, and a customer-focused attitude. The ability to work flexible shifts and manage high-volume customer traffic efficiently is essential.

Preferred Qualifications and Benefits
Experience working in live bakery counters, specialty cafés, branded coffee shops, or high-volume food and beverage operations will be preferred. Key attributes include practical coffee-making skills, consistency in beverage quality, maintaining cleanliness, and professional customer interaction.

The position offers a competitive monthly salary ranging from Rs 24,000 to Rs 95,000. This is an on-site role requiring in-person attendance.