Barista: What is the cost of hiring?

Benefits of hiring Baristas

Bringing on a new barista to your team can impact your existing team and customer base. An excellent barista hire can help: 

• Adapt to and improve your current menu, creating classic drinks while possibly providing customers with new options
• Manage behind-the-bar inventory, everything from cups and lids to beans and milk 
• Develop a great rapport with new and regular customers
• General maintenance and cleaning of the equipment and facilities

Skills to look for in a great Barista

A great barista candidate will have the following skills and attributes as well as work experience that reflects:

Hard skills:

• Ability to use common coffee brewing equipment
• Solid comprehension of health and safety standards
• Comprehensive understanding of your point of sale system 

Soft skills:

• Team-oriented attitude
• Cheerful demeanor and friendly attitude
• Creative problem-solving capabilities

Writing a Barista job description

A thoughtful description is important in finding qualified barista candidates. A barista job description includes a compelling summary of the role within your business or storefront, a detailed list of daily duties and responsibilities, and the required and preferred skills for the position.

Consider including keywords that job seekers are using to search for barista jobs, such as: 

• “Server”
• “Barista”
• “Espresso”
• “Coffee roaster” or “Coffee art” 

Interviewing Barista candidates

Strong candidates for barista positions will be confident answering questions regarding:

• Accounting platforms used and software they’re familiar with 
• Maintaining accuracy in accounting

See our list of barista interview questions for more examples.