Barista

Job Description: BaristaReports To: Cafe General ManagerJob Status: Hourly, Non-ExemptAbout Us: ALMA ("soul" in Spanish and Portuguese) is a neighborhood coffeehouse built around the heart of a farmers market - rooted in community, seasonal produce from local farms and makers, and genuine hospitality. With an excellent coffee program, baked goods, savory menus, takeout, and a small beer and wine list, we aim to be a warm and welcoming spot for both locals and tourists in San Luis Obispo. The Role: We're looking for a barista with a genuine passion for coffee, a natural warmth with guests, and the ability to stay calm and efficient during a rush. The ideal candidate is an all-things-coffee enthusiast who keeps calm under pressure, takes pride in every pour, and enjoys the rhythm and community of a neighborhood cafe.Our three core values shape everything we do: Authenticity, Respect, & Enthusiasm.Primary Duties and Responsibilities:Hospitality & ServiceDemonstrate a commitment to providing an outstanding, hospitable experience for every guest. In doing so: greet every guest with warmth; keep service friendly, efficient, and welcomingTake orders accurately, answer menu questions, and offer thoughtful suggestionsHandle payments and operate the POS system with accuracyServe grab and go items quickly, keeping presentation consistent and appealingCoffee & Bar ServiceExecute drip coffee, espresso based beverages, and manual espresso machine operation with confidence and careDial in espresso, pull consistent shots, and keep high standards for flavor profiles and latte art and drink presentationMonitor quality for every drink leaving the bar, correcting mistakes when necessaryStay curious and current on brewing methods, seasonal ingredients, and specialty coffee & tea trendsCafe OperationsKeep the counter, beverage station, and guest areas stocked, clean, and organized throughout the shiftHave knowledge of the history & concept of the cafe and sister restaurants and be able to confidently guide guests to sister locations as opportunities ariseBe thoroughly knowledgeable about all food and beverage menu items and successfully answer all guest inquiries about ingredients and dietary restrictionsRestock pastries, grab and go, and retail products as neededMaintain stock of and prepare all syrups, cold brew, and other batch drinksCommunicate with the kitchen to coordinate orders and keep service running smoothlySupport teammates during busy periods (at the register, on the bar, or running food)Help train new team members on recipes, workflows, and hospitality standards as neededComplete any checklists for FOH positions and service procedures related to your shiftReport any equipment issues or guest incidents to management promptlyClean and sanitize all work areas, equipment, and machinery; at all timesRequired Skills and Abilities:Genuine hospitality: you enjoy connecting with people and making their day a little better!Experience in a specialty coffee environment with a strong grasp of manual espresso equipmentA sense of urgency and strong attention to detailExcellent interpersonal and relationship building skillsStrong communication skills and a welcoming, collaborative attitude; willingness to jump in wherever neededAbility to adapt to changing priorities and manage workloads with minimal direction in high volume environmentsKnowledge of various brewing methods (pour over, batch brew) and tea preparationProven ability to dial in grind/extraction and produce consistent latte artStrong ability to prioritize and be a self-starterAbility to operate a POS system accuratelyBasic math skills for accurate cash handling and inventory countsAbility to multitask and prioritize during a rush without sacrificing quality or kindnessKnowledge of food safety and sanitation standards; food handler's card required (or willingness to obtain)Dependable and punctual, with a flexible schedule including early mornings, weekends, and holidaysPhysical Requirements:High level of stamina to work on feet for extended periods (be able to work in a standing, upright position for long periods of time up to 8 hours)Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs (ex: coffee bags, milk crates, supply deliveries)Frequent bending, reaching, and repetitive hand and wrist motions (tamping, steaming, pouring)Ability to work in a fast-paced environment with exposure to steam, hot surfaces, and noise