J-1 Barista
Position Type: J-1 Summer Work & Travel
Position Summary
J-1 Baristas create a welcoming environment by preparing high-quality coffee, espresso, and specialty beverages while providing exceptional customer service. This position offers participants hands-on experience in American café operations, food service, and hospitality while developing customer service, teamwork, and beverage preparation skills.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
- Welcome guests with a friendly, positive attitude and provide excellent customer service.
- Take customer orders accurately and answer questions about menu items.
- Prepare coffee, espresso, tea, and specialty beverages according to established recipes and quality standards.
- Heat and serve pastries and other food items as applicable.
- Maintain knowledge of menu offerings and make recommendations to guests.
- Operate cash registers and accurately process cash, credit card, and mobile transactions.
- Restock coffee beans, syrups, cups, lids, food items, and other supplies.
- Maintain clean, organized, and fully stocked workstations throughout each shift.
- Follow all food safety, sanitation, and health department regulations.
- Properly clean and maintain espresso machines, grinders, brewers, and other equipment.
- Assist with opening, closing, and daily cleaning duties.
- Work collaboratively with team members to ensure efficient café operations.
- Perform additional duties as assigned by management.
Qualifications
- Must be an approved participant in the J-1 Summer Work Travel Program.
- Strong customer service and communication skills.
- Basic English language proficiency.
- Basic cash handling skills.
- Ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
- Ability to follow written and verbal instructions.
- Reliable attendance and punctuality.
- Previous food service or coffee experience is preferred but not required.
Physical Requirements
- Stand and walk for extended periods.
- Frequently bend, reach, stoop, twist, and lift.
- Lift up to 30 pounds.
- Safely operate coffee equipment and small kitchen appliances.
- Perform repetitive motions such as steaming milk, grinding coffee, and preparing beverages.
Work Environment
Baristas work in a fast-paced café environment. Schedules may include mornings, afternoons, evenings, weekends, and holidays based on business needs.
What You'll Gain
- Experience working in an American café environment.
- Hands-on training in espresso beverage preparation and customer service.
- Exposure to U.S. hospitality and retail operations.
- Opportunity to develop teamwork, communication, and time management skills while participating in a cultural exchange program.