Job Descriptions for Baristas

Looking to hire baristas but not sure how to write a compelling job posting? Browse our collection of professionally-written barista job description templates from top coffee shops, cafes, and mobile vendors.

Mobile Barista

Entry level to intermediate

Brew on the move. Bring coffee culture to events, festivals, and community spaces with flexible scheduling and meaningful connections.

Requirements

Quick Facts

  • Schedule: Full-Time/Part-Time

  • Shift: Flexible/Event-Based

  • Salary: Competitive + Tips

  • Experience Level: Entry-Level to Intermediate

About the Role

Join our mobile barista team and bring specialty coffee to communities across the region! Unlike traditional cafe work, you'll operate our mobile coffee units at events, festivals, farmers markets, corporate gatherings, and community locations. Every day is different—new customers, new locations, and new opportunities to share your passion for coffee.

This role combines traditional barista skills with entrepreneurial thinking, flexibility, and community engagement. You'll work independently while representing our brand at high-visibility events.

Key Responsibilities

✓ Operate mobile espresso and coffee equipment
✓ Prepare specialty drinks (lattes, cappuccinos, espresso-based beverages)
✓ Take customer orders and manage transactions
✓ Maintain equipment cleanliness and sanitation
✓ Stock and manage inventory during events
✓ Provide exceptional customer service in varied environments
✓ Drive mobile unit safely to event locations
✓ Set up and break down coffee station professionally
✓ Handle cash and card payments accurately
✓ Report sales and inventory at end of shift

What We're Looking For

✓ Espresso machine operation experience (or willingness to train)
✓ Flexible schedule availability (weekends/events required)
✓ Passion for quality coffee and customer experience
✓ Valid driver's license with clean driving record
✓ Physical capability for setup/breakdown and standing extended periods
✓ Reliable and professional demeanor
✓ Ability to work independently and problem-solve
✓ Friendly, outgoing personality
✓ Basic math for cash handling
✓ Enthusiasm for community engagement

Barista - Mobile

General

Craft specialty coffee on the move. Join our mobile coffee team and share the coffee experience with diverse communities and events.

Requirements

Quick Facts

  • Schedule: Part-Time/Full-Time

  • Shift: Flexible/Event-Based

  • Salary: Hourly + Tips

  • Experience Level: Entry-Level

About the Role

We are seeking motivated and skilled baristas to join our mobile coffee service. Operate our mobile espresso bar at various locations including markets, corporate offices, festivals, and community events. This is perfect for someone who loves coffee, enjoys customer interaction, and thrives in dynamic environments.

Your role extends beyond just making great coffee—you're representing our brand, engaging with diverse communities, and creating memorable coffee experiences.

Key Responsibilities

✓ Prepare specialty and traditional coffee drinks
✓ Operate mobile espresso equipment
✓ Greet customers with enthusiasm
✓ Take orders and process payments
✓ Maintain equipment cleanliness
✓ Setup and breakdown mobile unit
✓ Manage inventory for events
✓ Provide exceptional service
✓ Handle temperature and timing precisely
✓ Suggest drinks and upsell when appropriate

What We're Looking For

✓ Barista experience or strong customer service background
✓ Knowledge of espresso drinks
✓ Event/mobile work availability
✓ Flexible schedule (weekends/evenings)
✓ Outgoing and personable
✓ Physical capability for event work
✓ Reliable attendance
✓ Passion for quality coffee
✓ Ability to work independently
✓ Problem-solving skills

Barista

Part time Intermediate

Perfect for students, second-job seekers, or coffee enthusiasts, this position offers flexibility while letting you develop real barista skills.

Requirements

Perfect your espresso pulls and customer connections. Part-time flexibility with full-time coffee passion in our fast-paced cafe.

Key Responsibilities

✓ Learn and prepare specialty coffee drinks
✓ Operate espresso equipment under supervision
✓ Take customer orders
✓ Process payments
✓ Keep workspace clean and organized
✓ Support more experienced baristas
✓ Engage with customers
✓ Follow procedures and recipes
✓ Report issues to manager
✓ Contribute to positive team environment

What We're Looking For

✓ Part-time availability (flexible hours)
✓ Strong customer service orientation
✓ Willingness to learn and develop skills
✓ Reliable and responsible
✓ Friendly and outgoing
✓ Physical capability for cafe environment
✓ Interest in coffee (experience not required)
✓ Team player
✓ Good communication
✓ Available to start quickly

Barista (Driver & In-Store)

Part time 1-2 years experience

Split your shift between brewing perfect espresso and delivering coffee excellence. Flexibility meets quality in this unique dual-role position.

Requirements

Quick Facts

  • Schedule: Flexible

  • Shift: Variable (Driver + In-Store)

  • Salary: Competitive Hourly + Tips

  • Experience Level: Intermediate

About the Role

This unique position combines in-store barista work with delivery responsibilities. You'll spend part of your shift crafting specialty drinks and providing excellent cafe service, and part of your time driving orders and products to customers and events.

This role is ideal for someone who enjoys variety, doesn't want to be confined to one location, and can manage multiple responsibilities with excellent attention to detail.

Key Responsibilities

In-Store Duties:
✓ Operate espresso machine and coffee equipment
✓ Prepare quality specialty beverages
✓ Take customer orders and manage POS
✓ Maintain cafe cleanliness and standards
✓ Build customer relationships
✓ Train new baristas (if experienced)

Delivery Duties:
✓ Drive safely to delivery locations
✓ Load and transport orders carefully
✓ Provide professional service at delivery point
✓ Collect payments
✓ Maintain delivery vehicle cleanliness
✓ Report any issues to management

What We're Looking For

✓ 1-2 years barista experience
✓ Valid driver's license with clean record
✓ Espresso machine proficiency
✓ Excellent customer service skills
✓ Reliable transportation
✓ Ability to multitask effectively
✓ Professional and punctual
✓ Physical capability for driving and standing
✓ Strong communication skills
✓ Flexible schedule

Barista

Entry-Level to Intermediate

Master the craft of specialty coffee. Perfect espresso shots, memorable customer moments, and a team that cares about quality in every cup.

Requirements

Quick Facts

  • Schedule: Flexible

  • Shift: Day/Evening Shifts

  • Salary: Competitive Hourly + Tips

  • Experience Level: Entry-Level to Intermediate

About the Role

Join our cafe team as a barista and become part of a community dedicated to quality coffee and excellent customer service. You'll craft specialty drinks, develop customer relationships, and contribute to a welcoming cafe atmosphere.

This is more than a job—it's an opportunity to master your craft, grow your skills, and be part of something meaningful.

Key Responsibilities

✓ Prepare espresso-based and specialty drinks
✓ Operate espresso machine with precision
✓ Take customer orders efficiently
✓ Manage register and handle payments
✓ Maintain cafe cleanliness and organization
✓ Stock supplies and manage inventory
✓ Provide personalized customer service
✓ Follow recipes and quality standards
✓ Work collaboratively with team
✓ Suggest drinks and handle special requests

What We're Looking For

✓ Barista experience or formal training
✓ Knowledge of espresso drinks and coffee
✓ Excellent customer service skills
✓ Attention to detail and precision
✓ Reliable and punctual
✓ Physical capability for standing/repetitive tasks
✓ Team player mentality
✓ Communication skills
✓ Passion for quality coffee
✓ Flexible scheduling

Barista & Cashier

Full time Intermediate

Balance the art of coffee with the pace of service. Master both roles and be the backbone of our cafe operations.

Requirements

Quick Facts

  • Schedule: Flexible

  • Shift: Various Times

  • Salary: Hourly + Tips

  • Experience Level: Entry-Level to Intermediate

About the Role

This hybrid role combines barista expertise with front-of-house operations. You'll spend roughly equal time crafting quality espresso drinks and managing our point-of-sale system, handling transactions, and managing the customer flow.

Ideal for someone who enjoys multitasking, customer interaction, and the fast-paced cafe environment.

Key Responsibilities

Barista (50%):
✓ Prepare specialty and standard coffee drinks
✓ Operate espresso machine
✓ Follow quality standards and recipes
✓ Suggest drinks and upsell

Cashier (50%):
✓ Manage POS system
✓ Take orders and process payments
✓ Handle cash drawer
✓ Provide customer service at register
✓ Process refunds and special requests
✓ Manage line flow during busy periods

General:
✓ Maintain cleanliness
✓ Stock supplies
✓ Work as collaborative team

What We're Looking For

✓ Barista experience or training
✓ Cash handling experience
✓ POS system familiarity (training provided)
✓ Excellent customer service
✓ Able to multitask effectively
✓ Reliable and punctual
✓ Physical capability
✓ Good communication
✓ Positive attitude
✓ Flexible availability

Hiring FAQ

Common Questions About Delivery Driver Job Descriptions

What are the must-have requirements for delivery drivers?

According to our sample JDs, the consistent requirements are:

  • Valid driver's license (typically required)

  • Minimum 1-3 years driving history depending on company

  • Clean driving record (no major violations)

  • Reliable transportation and proof of insurance

  • Ability to work independently

  • Good customer service skills

  • Punctuality and reliability

Some positions also require:

  • Age 18+ or 21+ depending on insurance and alcohol delivery

  • Physical capability (lifting 50+ lbs)

  • Smartphone with GPS capability

  • Background check

What's the difference between event-based and traditional delivery driver roles?

Traditional Delivery (Restaurant/Package):

  • Fixed routes during business hours

  • Predictable schedule

  • Consistent customer locations

  • Clear start and end times

  • More routine work pattern

  • Typical salary: $12-$20/hour

Event-Based Delivery (Kona Ice, Mobile Vendors):

  • Variable locations (never same place twice)

  • Event-dependent schedule (heavily weekends)

  • Community engagement focus

  • Longer setup/breakdown times included

  • More dynamic environment

  • Typical salary: $15-$20+/hour + tips

  • Better for: People who enjoy variety, customer interaction, outdoor work

Should I include benefits information in the job description?

Yes! Our top-performing JDs include benefits information because it:

  • Sets expectations (reducing poor-fit applications)

  • Highlights competitive advantages over competitors

  • Explains total compensation beyond hourly wage

  • Shows investment in employee satisfaction

  • Increases application quality and conversion rates

Include: Health insurance eligibility, employee discounts, mileage reimbursement, paid time off, advancement opportunities, and flexible scheduling.

What's the best way to describe the actual work in a delivery driver JD?

Our best examples use multiple approaches:

  • "A Day in the Life" - Chronological breakdown of typical shift

  • Key Responsibilities - Bullet-point format of main duties

  • Responsibilities section - Narrative description of the role

  • About the Role - Opening paragraph setting tone and expectations

Combining multiple formats helps different candidates understand the role. Show: the driving portion, customer interaction, paperwork, break times, and any additional duties (food prep, event setup, etc.).

How long should a delivery driver job description be?

Based on our examples:

  • Minimum: 150-200 words (too short seems unserious)

  • Optimal: 300-400 words (comprehensive but not overwhelming)

  • Maximum: 500+ words only if including extensive benefits or company info

Our best-performing JDs average 350-400 words total across all sections (summary, requirements, company info combined).

What mistakes do I see in poorly-written delivery driver JDs?

Common problems to avoid:

  • Too vague ("make deliveries" without more detail)

  • Unrealistic requirements (10+ years experience for entry-level role)

  • Salary ranges too wide ($10-$30/hour without explanation)

  • No information about company culture or why someone should apply

  • Overly formal tone that discourages applications

  • Missing key information (schedule, location, benefits)

  • Requirements as checklist only without role context

  • No call-to-action or application instructions

Should I use the same JD for multiple locations?

Yes, with modifications:

  • Use a template with location as a variable

  • Adjust salary ranges based on local market

  • Customize warehouse/start location info

  • Keep core job responsibilities identical

  • This ensures consistency while reflecting local market realities

How often should I update my delivery driver JDs?

Review quarterly and update:

  • Salary to match current market rates

  • Requirements based on recent hires' actual qualifications

  • Responsibilities if role focus has shifted

  • Benefits information if company policies changed

  • Testimonials or company culture information for freshness

Ready to Hire Your Next Great Barista?

Getting the job description right is just the first step. You need to post it where qualified candidates will see it—and manage applications efficiently.

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Hiring FAQ

Common Questions About Barista Job Descriptions

 

What are the key responsibilities for a barista?

A: Core barista duties include operating espresso machines and other coffee equipment, preparing specialty drinks (lattes, cappuccinos, etc.), taking customer orders, managing point-of-sale systems, maintaining café cleanliness, and providing excellent customer service. Many also handle cash handling, inventory management, and training newer team members.

Q: Should I require prior barista experience?

A: Not necessarily. Many cafes train entry-level candidates with strong customer service backgrounds. However, if you want experienced baristas who can work independently and mentor others, specify "1-2 years barista experience" or "experience with espresso machines." Be clear about what training you'll provide.

Q: What skills should I highlight in the job description?

A: Key skills include:

  • Espresso machine operation and coffee knowledge

  • Customer service excellence

  • Attention to detail (precise drink measurements)

  • Time management (handling rushes)

  • Cash handling and POS systems

  • Teamwork and communication

  • Physical capability (standing for hours)

  • Passion for coffee quality

Q: How do I attract baristas in competitive markets?

A: Highlight:

  • Competitive pay: Show hourly wage + tips potential

  • Benefits: Health insurance, employee discounts, free/discounted drinks

  • Flexibility: Schedule options, shift availability

  • Growth opportunities: Lead barista, shift supervisor, training roles

  • Company culture: Community focus, specialty drinks, training investment

  • Work environment: "Fast-paced but fun," "team-oriented," "craft-focused"

Q: Should I mention specific coffee equipment or brands?

A: Only if it's essential to the role. For example:

  • ✓ "Experience with La Marzocco espresso machines preferred"

  • ✓ "Comfortable learning specialty pour-over brewing methods"

  • ✓ "Familiar with Rancilio or similar commercial equipment"

If you're willing to train, keep it general: "Espresso machine operation—training provided."

Q: How do I describe a mobile barista or specialty role?

A: For mobile positions, highlight:

  • Flexibility and variety (different locations daily)

  • Customer interaction opportunities

  • Entrepreneurial atmosphere

  • Independence (managing multiple tasks)

  • Community engagement

  • Unique environment (outdoor events, festivals, etc.)

Q: What's the difference between "Barista" and "Coffee Shop Staff"?

A:

  • Barista: Focused on coffee drink preparation and espresso expertise

  • Cafe Staff/Coffee Shop Staff: Broader role including barista duties + register, cleanup, inventory, food prep

  • Barista & Cashier: Hybrid role equally balancing coffee prep and POS operations

Be specific about what percentage of time is spent on each task.

Q: How important is coffee knowledge vs. customer service?

A: Both matter, but it depends on your cafe style:

  • Specialty/Specialty Third-Wave: Coffee knowledge critical (60% focus)

  • Commercial/Chain Cafe: Customer service primary (60% focus)

  • Balanced Cafe: 50/50 split

Make this clear in your JD so candidates know what to expect.

Q: What mistakes do people make in barista job descriptions?

A: Common problems to avoid:

  • ❌ No mention of pay or benefits

  • ❌ Vague descriptions ("make coffee")

  • ❌ Unrealistic requirements for entry-level

  • ❌ No information about training provided

  • ❌ Missing schedule/availability details

  • ❌ Not highlighting what makes your cafe special

  • ❌ No mention of tips or employee discounts

  • ❌ Ignoring growth opportunities