Barista

Location: Hastings, Hawke's Bay, New Zealand
Hours: Minimum 30 hours per week, up to 40 hours per week
Pay Rate: $25.00 – $27.00 per hour (depending on experience)

About the Role

The successful candidate will be responsible for preparing high-quality coffee and beverages, delivering excellent customer service, and supporting the smooth daily operation of our café.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare and serve a variety of coffee and beverages to a consistently high standard.
• Operate coffee machines, grinders and other café equipment safely and efficiently.
• Ensure the quality, taste and presentation of all beverages meet café standards.
• Assist with heating, displaying and serving bakery items, pastries and other café food products as required.
• Provide friendly, professional and efficient customer service.
• Take customer orders and process payments using the POS system.
• Maintain cleanliness and hygiene in the coffee preparation and service areas.
• Monitor stock levels and assist with ordering and replenishing coffee beans, milk and other supplies.
• Follow food safety, health and safety procedures.
• Work closely with other team members to ensure smooth café operations.
• Assist with opening and closing duties as required.

Skills and Experience Required

• At least 2 years of relevant work experience as a Barista or in a closely related role, preferably in a busy café or hospitality environment.
• Strong knowledge and practical skills in specialty coffee preparation, including espresso extraction, coffee grinding, milk texturing, brewing techniques and latte art.
• Proven ability to consistently prepare high-quality espresso-based beverages, including cappuccinos, flat whites and lattes, while maintaining quality and presentation standards.
• Ability to independently operate, calibrate, clean and maintain commercial espresso machines and coffee grinders, including troubleshooting common equipment issues.
• Proven ability to independently manage the coffee station in a high-volume café environment, efficiently handling multiple orders while maintaining beverage quality and service standards.
• Good understanding of coffee bean varieties, flavour profiles and factors affecting coffee extraction and beverage quality.
• Strong customer service and communication skills, including the ability to handle customer enquiries and complaints professionally.
• Good knowledge of food safety, hygiene standards and workplace health and safety requirements.
• Strong organisational, multitasking and time management skills, with the ability to work efficiently under pressure, both independently and as part of a team.
• Flexibility to work rostered shifts, including weekends and public holidays, as required.

How to Apply

If you are passionate about food and enjoy working in a dynamic café environment, we would love to hear from you.

Please submit your CV and a brief cover letter outlining your relevant experience.

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Applicants for this position should have NZ residency or the legal rights to work in NZ