What are the responsibilities and job description for the Bar Back position at Switch Bakery?
Company Description
Switch Bakery is a dedicated gluten-free bakery and bistro committed to crafting delicious, gut-friendly foods. Focused on health-conscious options, the bakery avoids using corn, soy, or seed oils in its creations. Located in Santa Cruz, CA, Switch Bakery is known for its innovative approaches to food and a welcoming atmosphere. Our team is passionate about delivering high-quality products and excellent service to our community.
THE TOP 5 REASONS TO JOIN OUR TEAM:
- ETHOS: We really do love your guts! We are supporting that with great ingredients and training on how we turn those into exceptional food and great vibes in our bistro.
- LOCATION: Santa Cruz - we eat well, enjoy great vibes, run, surf, and bike in the ocean and mountains.
- COMMUNITY: Frankly, we have the best customers and are committed to cultivating a community around health and vitality.
- BENEFITS: Competitive salary, great food, and free bread every week!
- GROWTH: As our company grows and evolves, so will our careers. Get started with us and create your dream job.
Role Description
The Barback is a reliable, detail‑oriented support role that keeps front‑ and back‑of‑house running smoothly. You maintain cleanliness and organization, assist baristas and kitchen staff, and help deliver consistent product quality by following Switch Bakery standards. This role requires initiative, clear communication, and the ability to anticipate guest and team needs.
Core Responsibilities:
- Front‑of‑house rounds: clear and reset tables, collect dishes, restock service stations, and greet customers.
- Back‑of‑house rounds: bussing, washing/polishing dishes, receiving and organizing supplies, and maintaining clean prep surfaces.
- Packaging and Shipping: packaging and labeling products for retail, shipping orders, and maintaining retail label and shipping supplies.
- Beverage support: prepare prepped air‑pot beverages, milk and syrup prep, and assist with brew‑bar methods as needed.
- Guest service: Take orders and manage register transactions, including card and cash transactions, sending orders to the kitchen, and take custom orders. Answer basic menu questions, and escalate complex questions to the barista or chefs.
- Menu Knowledge: Learn flavor profile and processes of the current menu.
Tips for Success:
- Keep the space “photo‑ready” — tidy, organized, and guest‑presentable at all times.
- Proactively restock and anticipate needs rather than waiting for direction.
- Look for service opportunities, make our guests feel special.
- Propose training times to improve coffee/kitchen skills.
Qualifications
- Strong customer service and interpersonal skills to create a welcoming environment
- Effective verbal communication skills for engaging with customers and team members
- Basic knowledge of food preparation and maintaining food safety standards
- Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment
- Prior café, bakery, or hospitality experience is a plus
- Passion for health-conscious and gluten-free products is an advantage
- Comfortable with repeated standing, lifting up to 40 lbs, and fast, physical work during peak periods.
- Reliable availability, for a minimum of 3-shifts per week.
- California Food Handlers Certificate, or willingness to complete within 30 days of hire date