JOB SUMMARY
The Lead Barista at Refuel is responsible for preparing high-quality coffee and beverage offerings while overseeing daily operations at the coffee bar. This role ensures consistent product standards, exceptional customer service, and smooth shift operations by supporting and guiding barista team members. This role is critical to maintaining the luxury standard and reputation of The Houstonian Hotel, Club & Spa while upholding the highest levels of discretion and professionalism.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS
- Prepare and serve coffee, espresso drinks, teas, and other beverages to company standards.
- Lead by example in providing exceptional guest service and maintaining a welcoming atmosphere.
- Oversee daily operations, ensuring adherence to recipes, quality, and presentation standards.
- Assist with training, coaching, and supporting baristas to uphold performance and service standards.
- Monitor inventory levels and assist with ordering and restocking supplies.
- Maintain cleanliness and organization of the coffee bar area, ensuring compliance with health and safety standards.
- Address and resolve guest concerns or complaints professionally and promptly.
- Support the Refuel Manager with scheduling, shift coverage, and operational tasks as needed.
- Track daily sales, assist with cash handling, and ensure accurate point-of-sale operations.
- Other duties as assigned.
KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS- High school education is preferred but not required.
- Previous barista or café experience preferred (hospitality or spa environment a plus)
- Familiarity with coffee/espresso equipment and smoothie preparation
- Friendly, professional demeanor and strong customer service skills
- Ability to multitask in a fast-paced, service-oriented environment
- The barista must be able to ring tickets on the computerized Point of Sale system.
- The barista must be able to accurately and securely manage a cash bank, making change for purchases and performing standardized accounting cash closing procedures.
- The barista must have strong customer service skills.
- Must have excellent verbal, written and interpersonal communication skills.
- Must understand and communicate fluently in English.
- Must have the ability to learn food and beverage preparation procedures.
- Must have exceptional listening and communication skills.
- Must be available for a flexible work schedule, including but not limited to peak hours, including early mornings, weekends, and holidays.
- Must exhibit a friendly and professional demeanor with customers and coworkers at all times.
- Must be able to deliver excellent customer service that assures total customer satisfaction with their experience at Refuel.
- Hours required: Scheduled days and hours vary based on departmental needs.
LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS
- Must have a TABC certificate and Food Handlers Certification.
PHYSICAL JOB REQUIREMENTS
Must be able to meet the following minimum physical requirements for at least an eight-hour shift:
- Physical Stamina: Frequent standing, walking, climbing of ladders and stairs, kneeling, reaching overhead, lifting and carrying various objects weighing up to 50 lbs. Must be able to communicate effectively. Must be able to perform all activities in a professional manner. Must be able to see and read printed matter with or without vision aids.
- Hearing / Speech: Must be able to effectively engage in one-on-one communication with guests, members, and customers and use a 2-way radio to communicate clearly and accurately with co-workers.
- Vision: Must be able to accurately read instructions, reports, and log sheets. Must be able to work with computers and PDAs in varying light conditions.
- Literacy: Must be able to analyze and process written information from a variety of sources and effectively communicate content of reports.
- Chemicals/Agents: Must be able to work safely with chemicals according to SDS sheets and all applicable laws, codes and regulatory requirements.