Barista II

Quest Food Mangement TL St. Charles, Illinois, United States Customer Service

About this position

About Company:

For over 40 years, Quest Food Management Services has been a leading food service provider serving K-12 schools, higher education institutions, corporate dining programs, and event venues. Quest is consistently ranked among the top food service management companies in the United States for its commitment to fresh, scratch made menus, local sourcing, and intensely personal service. At the heart of our success is our “Quest Ready” culture, built on integrity, responsiveness, accountability, respect, and excellence. 
Being Quest Ready means serving with purpose and care, creating experiences that are nourishing, welcoming, and reliable. This mindset empowers our teams to build lasting relationships and continually raise the standard for great hospitality in every community we serve.

About the Role:

The Barista II plays a crucial role in delivering an exceptional customer experience by expertly preparing and serving high-quality coffee and other beverages. This position requires a deep understanding of coffee brewing techniques, equipment operation, and customer service excellence to ensure each guest receives a personalized and satisfying experience. The Barista II will also contribute to maintaining a clean, organized, and welcoming environment that reflects the brand’s standards. Additionally, this role involves mentoring and supporting junior baristas to foster a collaborative and efficient team atmosphere. Ultimately, the Barista II helps drive customer loyalty and repeat business through consistent product quality and outstanding service.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • At least 1 year of experience working as a barista or in a similar customer-facing role.
  • Basic knowledge of coffee brewing techniques and equipment operation.
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to work flexible hours, including early mornings, weekends, and holidays.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Certification in coffee preparation or barista training from a recognized institution.
  • Experience with specialty coffee drinks and latte art.
  • Familiarity with point-of-sale (POS) systems and cash handling procedures.
  • Previous experience in a fast-paced retail or food service environment.
  • Ability to work collaboratively in a team and provide leadership support.

Responsibilities:

  • Prepare and serve a variety of coffee and espresso beverages according to company recipes and customer preferences.
  • Operate and maintain coffee brewing equipment, ensuring all machines are clean and functioning properly.
  • Engage with customers in a friendly and professional manner, taking orders accurately and providing product recommendations.
  • Maintain cleanliness and organization of the work area, including restocking supplies and adhering to health and safety standards.
  • Assist in training and mentoring new baristas, sharing knowledge of beverage preparation and customer service best practices.
  • Handle cash register operations, process transactions accurately, and balance cash drawers at the end of shifts.
  • Collaborate with team members to ensure smooth store operations and timely service during peak hours.

Skills:

The required skills enable the Barista II to efficiently prepare beverages that meet quality standards while engaging customers with professionalism and warmth. Strong communication skills are essential for understanding customer preferences and providing tailored recommendations, enhancing the overall experience. Technical skills related to coffee equipment operation and maintenance ensure consistent product quality and minimize downtime. Preferred skills such as latte art and advanced coffee knowledge allow the barista to elevate the presentation and appeal of beverages, contributing to customer satisfaction. Additionally, teamwork and leadership skills are applied daily to support colleagues, maintain smooth operations, and foster a positive work environment.


Salary Information

$16.5 - $16.5 Hourly Wage