Description Barista Culver City, CA LA Description Job Title: Barista Reports To: Beverage Manager / General Manager Department: Front of House – Café/Beverage Employment Type: Hourly, Non-Exempt (Tipped, where applicable) About José Andrés Group José Andrés Group (JAG) is a hospitality company led by Chef José Andrés, known for outstanding guest experiences, innovation, and a values-driven culture. Our teams bring world-class food and warm hospitality to life across acclaimed concepts worldwide. Position Summary Baristas craft consistently excellent coffee and tea beverages while delivering warm, anticipatory hospitality. You’ll dial-in espresso, steam milk to texture, execute non-coffee drinks, maintain a spotless workstation, manage par levels and restocking, and educate guests—upholding JAG quality, speed, and sanitation standards during every service. Key Responsibilities Guest Experience & Sales • Greet guests with warmth; guide selections and offer thoughtful recommendations, pairings, and upgrades. • Execute orders accurately and quickly; manage modifiers, milk alternatives, and sweetness levels to preference. • Resolve guest concerns with empathy; escalate to leadership when needed. Beverage Preparation & Quality • Dial in espresso daily (dose, yield, time) and calibrate throughout service based on bean age and environmental changes. • Steam milk to correct temperature and microfoam texture; pour consistent latte art where applicable. • Prepare brewed coffee, pour-over, cold brew, teas, matcha, specialty and seasonal beverages to spec. • Maintain recipe and presentation standards; taste and adjust as appropriate. Station Readiness & Sidework • Set, stock, and maintain station pars (beans, dairy/alternatives, syrups, powders, garnishes, cups/lids, napkins). • Complete opening/closing and deep-clean tasks; keep bar, pastry case, and service areas organized and spotless. • Rotate product with FIFO; label/date all perishable items and track hold times. Equipment Care & Safety • Operate and maintain espresso machines, grinders, brewers, kettles, blenders, nitro/cold brew systems, and dish/glass washers. • Perform routine care (purge/flush, backflush, wipe wands, clean screens/baskets, calibrate grinders); report malfunctions and tag out unsafe equipment. • Follow PPE and chemical/SDS guidance; keep floors dry and safe. Product Knowledge & Training • Maintain current knowledge of beans (origin, process, roast), flavor notes, and brew methods; share stories that enhance the guest experience. • Participate in tastings, cuppings, and trainings; retain and apply new information quickly. • Support onboarding and cross-training of new team members as assigned. Cash Handling, Technology & Compliance • Use POS accurately; manage cash, tips, discounts, comps, and gift cards per policy. • Follow DOH/health code standards: handwashing, allergen and cross-contact protocols, and temperature control. • Maintain accurate logs (cleaning tasks, sanitizer PPM, fridge temps) as required. Food & Pastry Support (as applicable) • Stage, label, and restock pastries and grab-and-go items; communicate 86s and low pars. • Heat or finish items to standard; handle utensils and packaging with sanitation best practices. Requirements Required Qualifications 6+ months barista or café experience in a high-volume, quality-driven environment preferred; we’ll train the right candidate. Ability to dial in espresso, steam milk to texture, and execute consistent beverages under pressure. Clear, professional communication and guest-recovery skills; strong organization and pace. Basic sanitation knowledge; valid Food Handler certification (or ability to obtain). Comfort with POS systems and Google Workspace a plus. Reliable attendance and schedule flexibility (early mornings, weekends, holidays). Working Conditions & Physical Requirements Stand/walk for extended periods (up to 8+ hours); frequent bending, reaching, and repetitive motions. Lift/carry up to 35–40 lbs. (milk crates, boxes of beans, brew equipment). Exposure to hot liquids/steam, refrigeration, and cleaning chemicals; slip-resistant footwear required. In Return, We Offer You Competitive hourly pay plus tips (where applicable) Opportunities for growth, cross-training, and SCA-style development Employee dining and partner discounts Access to health & wellness benefits where eligible Equal Opportunity Employer José Andrés Group is an Equal Opportunity Employer and participates in the federal E-Verify Program.