Front of House Counter Barista

We’re Hiring: Front Counter & Barista (Closing Shift)

Full-Time Park Slope, Brooklyn

Weekend & Holiday Availability Is Required — Non-Negotiable

About Simple Loaf Bakehouse

We are a modern artisan bakehouse rooted in the craft of long-ferment sourdough baking and the art of laminated doughs. Our seasonal croissants and pastry program changes with what excites us, and our full café menu — from breakfast plates to seasonal salads and elevated sandwiches — reflects that same philosophy: thoughtful, intentional, and made with care. We are not just a bakery. We are building something, and we want the right people to build it with us.

The Role

We are looking for a full-time Front Counter & Barista (Opening Shift) who owns the floor. This is not just a barista position — it is a role for someone who takes genuine pride in the space they work in, treats every customer like a regular, and approaches the close of day as an opportunity rather than a countdown. The last hour and a half of your shift is yours to own: deep cleaning, restocking for the morning crew, and turning the quietest window of the day into the most engaged and personal experience a guest will have with us.

What We Are Looking For

This is Non-Negotiable (This is #1)

• Reliability. Show up, on time, every time. We do not chase people down.
• A genuinely positive attitude and strong personal work ethic — you take pride in doing things right even when no one is watching.
• You are the kind of person who notices what needs to be done and does it without being asked.

Customer Service & Hospitality

• Warm, genuine, and confident with guests — you remember names, preferences, and make people feel welcome every single time.
• You love talking about food, bread, and coffee and can translate that passion into sales without it ever feeling pushy.
• You understand that every interaction at the counter is a brand moment.

Skills & Experience

• 3–5 years of barista or front-of-house café experience strongly preferred.
• Proficient in espresso-based beverages; specialty or craft coffee knowledge is a plus.
• Experience in an artisan bakery, specialty food, or elevated café environment is a major plus.
• Ability to move quickly, multi-task, and stay organized under pressure.

Brand Ownership & Space Standards

• You maintain the front-of-house and dining area aesthetic at all times — it should look like we just opened, even at 4pm.
• Obsessive attention to cleaning detail and organization is something you see as a reflection of your personal standards.
• You are a natural problem solver who uses common sense. You do not freeze. You handle it, and then you tell someone.

A Note on Growth

We believe the best leaders come from within. This role is designed for someone who wants to grow with us. We do not talk about titles — we watch how you work. If you’re the person who consistently shows up, leads by example, and raises the bar for everyone around you, we will recognize that. Opportunities to take on more responsibility are available for the right person.

The Opener Mindset Showing up on time is the job — the morning starts with you. Your first priority is a complete, efficient setup so the bakery is ready before the first customer walks through the door. When they do, greet them with full energy and a genuine smile; you are the first impression of the day. You may find yourself managing a line on your own, and we need someone who can hold it down calmly and confidently without missing a beat.

Compensation & Benefits

• Starting pay: $17/hr (minimum) + tips, which typically average an additional ~$8/hr
• Performance and milestone-based pay reviews every 3 months
• Pay increases tied to measurable growth, reliability, and brand contribution
• Staff meals and bakehouse perks
• Be part of building something real from the ground up

Schedule Requirement

This is a full-time position. Weekend and holiday availability is mandatory — this is not flexible. We are a six-day operation and our busiest days are Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays. If you cannot commit to working weekends and holidays, this role is not the right fit.

Physical Requirements

This is an active, on-your-feet role in a working bakehouse environment. Candidates must be able to meet the following physical requirements to perform the job safely and effectively:

• Ability to stand and be on your feet for up to 8 hours per shift
• Ability to go up and down stairs repeatedly throughout the day
• Ability to lift and carry up to 25 lbs
• Ability to reach overhead to retrieve items from high shelves
• Basic math skills — must be able to count back change accurately when needed

Pay: $17.00 - $26.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Employee discount
• Paid sick time

Work Location: In person