Barista Job Description

What is the job description of a Barista? What are the duties and responsibilities of a Barista? What does a Barista do?

Job description of a Barista

Baristas prepare and serve hot and cold beverages, including various types of coffee and tea in coffee shops and restaurants. Barista responsibilities include educating customers on drinks menu, making recommendations based on their preferences, up-selling special items and taking orders.

This Barista job description example includes the list of most important Barista duties and responsibilities as shown below. It can be modified to fit the specific Barista profile you're trying to fill as a recruiter or job seeker.

Barista Duties and Responsibilities

Barista job description should contain a variety of functions and roles including:

  • Greet customers as they enter
  • Give customers drink menus and answer their questions regarding ingredients
  • Take orders while paying attention to details (e.g. preferences of coffee blend, dairy and sugar ratios)
  • Prepare beverages following recipes
  • Check if brewing equipment operates properly and report any maintenance needs
  • Comply with health and safety regulations
  • Communicate customer feedback to managers and recommend new menu items
  • Serve beverages and prepared food, like cookies, pastries and muffins
  • Receive and process payments (cash and credit cards)
  • Keep the bar area clean
  • Maintain stock of clean mugs and plates

Barista Requirements / Skills / Qualifications

Barista job description should include these common skills and qualifications:

  • High school diploma; relevant training is a plus
  • Previous work experience as a Barista or Waiter/Waitress
  • Hands-on experience with brewing equipment
  • Ability to gauge customers’ preferences
  • Excellent communication skills
  • Knowledge of sanitation regulations
  • Flexibility to work various shifts
  • Basic math skills

As a hiring manager, recruiting an ideal Barista starts with crafting a good job description. Use this Barista job description template to save yourself time and help you attract the most qualified candidates. Feel free to revise it to meet your specific needs.

Job seekers interviewing for the role of a Barista may also reference it in preparation for the interview.