Lead Barista/Cook

The Lead Barista oversees daily beverage operations at the Melrose Center café area, ensuring high‑quality drinks, excellent guest service, and smooth coordination between the kitchen, front‑of‑house, and community event activities. This role combines hands‑on barista work with leadership responsibilities, training, and maintaining a welcoming, community‑focused atmosphere. Will also need experience with light cooking duties.

☕ Essential Responsibilities

Beverage Preparation — Prepare all coffee, tea, and specialty drinks to Melrose Center quality standards; maintain consistency and presentation.

Shift Leadership — Lead the café area during operating hours; assign tasks, support staff, and maintain workflow.

Customer Experience — Greet guests warmly, provide recommendations, and ensure a friendly, community‑centered environment.

Training & Mentorship — Train new baristas on drink preparation, equipment use, customer service, and safety procedures.

Inventory Oversight — Track coffee, milk, syrups, and supply levels; communicate restock needs to the Kitchen Manager.

Equipment Care — Perform daily cleaning and basic maintenance of espresso machines, grinders, brewers, and small appliances.

Quality Control — Monitor drink accuracy, taste, and presentation; uphold cleanliness and sanitation standards.

Event Support — Assist with beverage service for community events, music nights, and special programs.Cash Handling — Operate POS, manage transactions accurately, and follow opening/closing cash procedures.

Safety & Compliance — Follow all food safety, hygiene, and allergen‑awareness protocols.

⭐ Qualifications

Barista Experience — Minimum 1–2 years barista or café experience; leadership experience preferred.

Customer Service Skills — Strong communication, hospitality mindset, and ability to create a welcoming environment.

Technical Skills — Proficiency with espresso machines, grinders, brewing methods, and milk steaming.Team Leadership — Ability to guide, train, and motivate staff in a positive, supportive manner.

Physical Requirements — Ability to stand for long periods, lift up to 30 lbs, and work in a fast‑paced environment.

Certifications — Food Handler certification (or willingness to obtain).

Working Environment

Community‑center café setting with a warm, friendly, guest‑focused atmosphereCollaboration with kitchen staff, volunteers, and event coordinatorsMorning and midday shifts aligned with Melrose Center operating hours

Role Impact

The Lead Barista helps shape the daily guest experience at Melrose Center—setting the tone for hospitality, supporting community connection, and ensuring the café runs smoothly and beautifully.

Pay: From $14.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Employee discount
• Paid training

Experience:

• Food industry: 1 year (Preferred)

License/Certification:

• Food Handler Certification (Required)

Location:

• Melrose, FL (Preferred)

Ability to Commute:

• Melrose, FL (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $14