What are the most important pre-service duties to include in a Barista job description?

Date modified: 22nd September 2025 | This FAQ page has been written by Pilla Founder, Liam Jones, click to email Liam directly, he reads every email. Or book a demo to see how hospitality businesses use Pilla to create and record job descriptions.

Barista Job Description Template

This job description template provides a full working exmaple using our six step approach. Open the template in the Pilla app and customise each section to make it specific to your role and business.

We operate a specialty coffee shop serving 300+ customers daily with focus on artisan coffee, fresh pastries, and exceptional customer experiences in a welcoming neighborhood setting. Our Baristas are central to our coffee culture, crafting expertly prepared espresso drinks while providing friendly hospitality, detailed coffee knowledge, and efficient service that creates loyal customers and memorable café experiences. The atmosphere balances professional coffee craft with relaxed community feel, serving diverse clientele from morning commuters to afternoon students and weekend families, requiring adaptability, technical skill, and genuine passion for coffee excellence.
• Prepare and serve high-quality espresso drinks including lattes, cappuccinos, americanos, and specialty beverages according to established recipes and standards • Operate espresso machines, grinders, and brewing equipment with precision to ensure consistent extraction and optimal flavor profiles • Provide knowledgeable recommendations on coffee selections, brewing methods, and flavor profiles based on customer preferences • Maintain comprehensive understanding of coffee origins, processing methods, and tasting notes for menu education and customer engagement • Handle cash and card transactions accurately using POS system while managing efficient order flow during peak periods • Prepare fresh food items including pastries, sandwiches, and light meals while maintaining food safety and presentation standards • Maintain coffee bar cleanliness including equipment maintenance, surface sanitizing, and proper milk steaming techniques • Manage inventory including coffee bean rotation, supply monitoring, and daily preparation of syrups and specialty ingredients • Engage with customers professionally, creating welcoming atmosphere through friendly conversation and attentive service • Handle customer feedback and special requests with positivity while escalating complex issues to management • Complete opening duties including equipment setup, coffee grinding, and station preparation for service • Execute closing responsibilities including deep cleaning, cash reconciliation, and equipment shutdown procedures
Essential Skills: Proficiency with espresso machine operation, milk steaming, and latte art techniques; strong customer service abilities with friendly, engaging communication style; attention to detail for coffee preparation accuracy and consistency; efficient multitasking during busy periods while maintaining quality standards; cash handling accuracy and POS system competency; physical stamina for extended standing and repetitive motions; team collaboration skills for coordinating with other staff. Preferred Qualifications: Previous barista experience in specialty coffee shops or cafés; formal coffee training or certification from recognized institutions; knowledge of coffee origins, processing methods, and brewing techniques; experience with various brewing methods including pour-over, French press, and cold brew; food safety certification and understanding of hygiene protocols; multilingual capabilities for diverse customer demographics; passion for coffee culture and continuous learning.
We welcome both experienced baristas and coffee enthusiasts eager to develop their skills in specialty coffee preparation. While previous coffee shop experience is valuable, we prioritize passion for coffee, positive attitude, and willingness to learn over extensive background. Comprehensive training covers espresso techniques, milk steaming, latte art, coffee knowledge, and customer service standards, with experienced baristas providing mentorship and hands-on guidance. Ongoing development opportunities include advanced coffee education, brewing workshops, and potential progression to senior barista or shift supervisor roles for dedicated team members.
We're seeking someone who genuinely enjoys coffee craft and connecting with customers while maintaining efficiency and quality during busy periods. The ideal candidate demonstrates natural warmth and friendliness, stays calm and organized under pressure, and takes pride in creating excellent coffee experiences for every customer. You should be detail-oriented with strong work ethic, able to learn and remember customer preferences, and excited about sharing coffee knowledge and recommendations. Reliability, punctuality, and positive team attitude are essential for success in our community-focused café environment.
Competitive hourly rate of £10.50-£13.00 based on experience, plus tips distribution and performance incentives (typically £15-30 per shift depending on service period). Comprehensive benefits package includes: staff beverages and meals during shifts; 24 days paid annual leave plus bank holidays; flexible scheduling accommodating work-life balance and study commitments; staff discounts on coffee and retail products. Professional development opportunities include advanced coffee training and certification programs; latte art workshops and brewing technique education; clear progression pathways to senior barista, shift supervisor, and management roles; participation in coffee competitions and industry events. Additional benefits include free coffee education and tasting sessions; access to specialty coffee events and workshops; recognition programs for outstanding customer service and coffee quality; supportive team environment with regular skills development and product knowledge training.

Before the café opens, baristas have several key tasks to prepare for the day. These include setting up the coffee station, dialling in grinders and the espresso machine, and ensuring all supplies like milk, cups, and cleaning materials are fully stocked. It's also crucial to clean and sanitise work surfaces and equipment before service begins.

Common misunderstanding: Pre-service duties are just about setting up the coffee machine.

While preparing the coffee machine is important, pre-service duties also involve broader preparation like stocking and cleaning. This ensures everything runs smoothly from the moment the first customer walks in.

Common misunderstanding: It’s okay to do some cleaning tasks later in the day.

Starting the day with a clean and organised station is essential for efficiency and food safety. Delaying cleaning can lead to cross-contamination and a disorganised work environment, impacting service quality.

How do I break down barista responsibilities during active service?

During active service, baristas are primarily responsible for making coffee and may also handle customer orders and payments if required. Key responsibilities include maintaining the quality and speed of coffee preparation, managing the coffee order flow with front-of-house staff, and keeping the workstation clean and well-stocked. Communication with team members is crucial to manage wait times and ensure a smooth service.

Common misunderstanding: Baristas only need to focus on making coffee.

While coffee making is their main task, baristas also need to engage with customers, manage stock levels, and maintain cleanliness, which are all vital for efficient operation.

Common misunderstanding: If the café is not busy, other tasks can be ignored.

Even during slower periods, it’s important for baristas to prepare for upcoming rushes, restock, and keep their area clean. This proactive approach prevents issues when the pace picks up again.

What should I include for end-of-shift tasks in the barista job description?

End-of-shift tasks are crucial for closing the day properly and setting up the next shift for success. These include cleaning and backflushing the espresso machine and grinders, restocking the station for the next day, and washing and sanitising jugs, tools, and work surfaces. Completing daily cleaning and waste disposal tasks are also part of the closing duties.

Common misunderstanding: Thorough cleaning can be done periodically, not necessarily daily.

Daily cleaning is essential to maintain equipment and ensure hygiene standards are met. This prevents buildup and potential health hazards.

Common misunderstanding: Restocking can be done the next morning.

Restocking and preparing the station at the end of each shift ensure that the morning crew can start service immediately, which is crucial for operational efficiency and customer satisfaction.