Head Barista / Café Lead
Location: Windsor, NSW
Employment Type: Full-Time or Part-Time
Service Period: Morning café trade (breakfast to early afternoon)
Reports to: Restaurant Manager / Owner
Role Purpose
The Head Barista / Café Lead is responsible for owning the morning café operation from the front, ensuring fast, consistent coffee quality and smooth customer flow during peak breakfast periods. This is a hands-on leadership role that sets the pace, energy, and service standard for the café each day.
Key Responsibilities
1. Coffee Quality & Beverage Execution
* Prepare and serve high-quality espresso-based coffee and beverages to consistent standards
* Dial in grinders, manage milk texturing, and maintain coffee recipes
* Ensure speed, accuracy, and presentation during peak morning service
2. Morning Service Flow & Customer Experience
* Lead café opening, setup, and readiness for morning trade
* Manage takeaway and dine-in flow to minimise wait times and queues
* Engage with customers, build rapport with regulars, and handle service issues professionally
3. Team Leadership & On-Shift Supervision
* Lead, train, and support baristas and FOH all-rounders during shifts
* Allocate positions during busy periods and step in where needed
* Set service expectations and maintain a calm, positive team environment
4. Equipment, Stock & Station Management
* Maintain espresso machines, grinders, and barista equipment in clean working order
* Monitor and manage stock for coffee beans, milk, cups, lids, and café supplies
* Communicate ordering needs and minimise waste
5. Standards, Cleanliness & Compliance
* Maintain cleanliness and presentation of the coffee station and front counter
* Ensure food safety, allergen awareness, and WHS practices are followed
* Uphold café brand standards and service consistency
Key Skills & Experience Required
* Proven experience as a Head Barista or Senior Barista in a busy café
* Strong espresso knowledge including grinder adjustment and milk texturing
* Experience working in high-volume morning café environments
* Strong communication, leadership, and customer service skills
* Reliable, organised, and confident leading morning shifts
Desirable (Not Mandatory)
* Experience opening cafés or setting up new coffee stations
* Ability to train junior baristas and all-rounders
* Knowledge of POS systems and basic cash handling
* Interest in career progression or future leadership opportunities
Why This Role Is Critical
* Coffee drives repeat business in local café trade
* Morning speed and consistency determine customer loyalty
* This role sets the tone for the entire venue each day
Apply with your resume and a brief summary of your barista and café leadership experience.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $24.95 – $41.16 per hour
Benefits:
* Employee discount
Work Location: In person