Lead Barista - Full Time

Location and Employment Type

The position is located at the Barnes & Noble bookstore in Stockton, California (Weberstown, 2920). This is a full-time, onsite role.

Role Overview

As the Lead Barista, you will be a vital member of the café team responsible for leading and supporting baristas to ensure a smooth operation and a welcoming café environment. Your role involves guiding the team in product presentation and daily operations, while fostering trust and addressing team concerns promptly and effectively.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead by example with punctual attendance and reliability to provide consistent presence on the floor.
• Adapt to scheduling needs with flexibility, including working early mornings, late evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• Create a positive work atmosphere by being proactive, energetic, supportive, and empowering colleagues.
• Deliver excellent customer service with a cheerful demeanor.
• Continuously develop new skills and knowledge and support ongoing learning among team members.
• Act as a resource for resolving staff issues and facilitate smooth shift operations.
• Master operational competencies such as drink preparation, food handling, and café processes, modeling best practices and coaching others.
• Manage café merchandising and presentation standards for food displays and retail fixtures, ensuring cleanliness and attractiveness.
• Optimize speed and accuracy at registers and guide others in effective customer interactions.
• Oversee receiving and stocking deliveries using FIFO principles.
• Maintain cleanliness through daily and weekly cleaning duties.
• Assist with bookstore presentation and loss prevention efforts, including spotting theft and de-escalating challenging situations.
• Perform physical activities including prolonged standing, bending, lifting, and walking. Support other stores in the cluster if needed.
• Handle timely and accurate ordering of food and beverage supplies to keep inventory stocked.
• Complete monthly inventory and waste reporting accurately and promptly.
• Coach the team on food and beverage recommendations and actively promote sales initiatives such as new products, promotions, and membership programs.
• Ensure compliance with café safety, hygiene, and sanitation standards.

Required Behaviors and Attitudes

• Exhibit dependable and punctual attendance setting the standard for the team.
• Demonstrate positivity, proactive engagement, and purpose-driven work ethic.
• Show empathy and supportiveness towards colleagues and customers.
• Exude enthusiasm and joy in barista work while encouraging continuous learning and career growth.
• Maintain effective communication and conflict resolution skills.

Physical Requirements

The position requires substantial physical activity including long periods of standing, repetitive bending, lifting, and extensive walking.

Benefits

Employees working less than 20 hours per week receive Employee Discount, Employee Assistance Program (EAP), and Sick Pay. Staff scheduled for 20 to 29.99 hours weekly receive these plus Paid Time Off (including Maternity and Parental Leave), Company Paid Holidays, Transit benefits, and 401(k) with company match. Those working 30 hours or more gain additional benefits such as comprehensive health coverage (Medical, Dental, Vision), Healthcare and Dependent Care Spending Accounts, Disability and Life Insurance, and Tuition Reimbursement. Benefits may vary by location and are subject to change per company policy.

Compensation

The starting wage for this role is $23.75 per hour, adjusted based on experience, seniority, and geographic variables within legal parameters.