Barista and To Go Cashier

Job Description

Ignite your passion at Orange County’s soul-infused hotspot! LJ’s Lounge fuses Southern comfort classics with California coastal vibes in a chic, music-pulsed haven for mature, diverse, and affluent professionals. As Barista & To-Go Specialist, you’ll run our high-visibility to-go window and premium coffee program with precision and soul—crafting delicious coffee beverages, managing to-go orders, and delivering exceptional customer service that creates a warm, welcoming environment and ensures every guest leaves “better than they arrived.” In our fast-paced startup environment, strong communication skills and the ability to work independently are essential. Protect profitability through efficiency, upselling, and attention to detail while embracing our C.L.E.A.R. values (Community, Love, Excellence, Adaptable, Responsible). We are committed to an employee experience that equals the guest experience and offer strong opportunities for growth in compensation and responsibility for high performers. We demand integrity, excellence, respect—strong team players ready to over-deliver in this community-rooted venue.

Key Responsibilities

- Craft and serve high-quality espresso drinks, specialty coffees, and non-alcoholic beverages with consistency, speed, and accuracy while following established recipes and presentation standards.

- Efficiently manage the To-Go window — handling app, phone, and in-person orders from start to finish with timely preparation and delivery.

- Operate Square POS system accurately, process cash and card transactions, and maintain excellent order accuracy.

- Provide friendly, attentive customer service by greeting guests, answering questions, making personalized recommendations, and addressing special requests.

- Prepare and package to-go items with excellent presentation and strict food safety standards.

- Maintain cleanliness, organization, and food safety compliance in the coffee station and to-go areas.

- Upsell daily specials, beverage pairings, and food items to enhance revenue and guest satisfaction.

- Collaborate clearly with kitchen and front-of-house teams for seamless operations.

Requirements & Expectations

- 1+ years professional barista experience with strong espresso and beverage knowledge.

- Previous cashiering or to-go experience and familiarity with POS systems (Square preferred).

- Excellent communication skills and the ability to thrive independently in a fast-paced, high-energy startup environment.

- Positive, energetic presence with genuine hospitality and a passion for creating memorable first impressions.

- Strong time management, multitasking, and attention to detail during busy periods.

- Flexible availability including mornings, weekends, and some evenings.

- Food Handler certification (or willingness to obtain immediately).

Compensation & Benefits

- Hourly Rate: $18.00 per hour based on experience.

- Performance bonuses for speed, accuracy, upselling, and guest satisfaction.

- Clear path for growth into higher-paying roles.

- Benefits: Health coverage eligibility, paid sick days (CA compliant), dining discounts.

This position is ideal for a driven, motivated barista who thrives in a fast-paced, soulful environment and wants to grow with an exciting new concept. Join us and be part of something truly special at LJ’s Lounge!

Pay: From $18.00 per hour

Work Location: In person