Barista

Barista – The Frisky Biscuit

Abingdon, Virginia

About The Frisky Biscuit

The Frisky Biscuit is a farm-to-table coffee and biscuit bar rooted in Appalachian and Southern food traditions. We serve high-quality coffee, house-made biscuits, breakfast and lunch fare, and a curated selection of local produce, value-added food products, and pantry staples sourced from regional farmers and producers. Our focus is on good, clean, and fair food that supports local agriculture and community food systems.

We are looking for a reliable, detail-oriented Barista who takes pride in craft coffee, excellent guest service, and the daily rhythm of a working kitchen and retail counter.

Position Summary

The Barista is the primary face of The Frisky Biscuit during service. This role prepares and serves coffee beverages, supports biscuit and light food preparation, maintains the retail produce and product displays, handles transactions, and creates a welcoming, knowledgeable experience for every guest. The position requires comfort moving between the espresso bar, food station, and retail floor while upholding food safety and quality standards.

Key Responsibilities

Coffee & Beverage Service

• Prepare drinks, pour-over, drip coffee, cold brew, and specialty beverages to consistent quality standards.
• Maintain equipment (daily cleaning, backflushing, milk system care, and basic troubleshooting).
• Taste and calibrate coffee regularly; communicate any quality issues promptly.
• Prepare and serve tea, seasonal drinks, and non-coffee beverages.

Food Support & Kitchen Assistance

• Assist with biscuit and light food preparation (portioning, assembly, heating, plating) under direction of the kitchen lead.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of the biscuit/food station and shared prep areas.
• Follow all food safety, temperature control, and allergen protocols.

Retail & Produce Sales

• Stock, rotate, and merchandise local produce, value-added products, and packaged goods.
• Keep retail displays clean, attractive, and properly labeled with pricing and origin information when available.
• Answer guest questions about products, producers, and suggested uses.
• Monitor inventory of retail items and communicate low stock or quality concerns.

Guest Experience & Operations

• Provide warm, professional, and efficient service at the counter and dining area.
• Accurately process orders and payments (cash, card, and POS systems).
• Handle guest feedback and resolve minor issues with a solutions-oriented approach.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and inviting front-of-house environment throughout the shift.
• Support opening and closing procedures, including cleaning, restocking, and end-of-day counts.
• Follow all health department, safety, and company policies.
  

Qualifications & Requirements

• Previous barista or café experience preferred; strong willingness to learn high-volume coffee service is essential.
• Comfort working in a fast-paced environment that combines coffee service, light food prep, and retail.
• Ability to stand for long periods, lift up to 40–50 lbs occasionally, and move between stations.
• Basic math and cash-handling skills; experience with POS systems (Square or similar) is a plus.
• Strong communication skills and a genuine interest in local food, coffee, and hospitality.
• Reliable transportation and availability for early mornings, weekends, and occasional evening events.
• Food handler certification (or willingness to obtain promptly). ServeSafe or equivalent preferred.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a small team and adapt to the needs of a growing farm-to-table operation.
  

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in farm-to-table, specialty coffee, or independent café settings.
• Knowledge of regional Appalachian or Southern ingredients and producers.
• Interest in learning about coffee sourcing, biscuit production, and local food systems.
• Experience merchandising or selling retail food products.
  

What We Offer

• Competitive hourly wage based on experience.
• Opportunity to grow with a mission-driven local food business.
• Staff meals / product discounts.
• Hands-on learning in specialty coffee, biscuit craft, and farm-to-table retail.
• Supportive team environment focused on quality, community, and continuous improvement.
  

To Apply

Please send a brief introduction and résumé (or work history) noting relevant café, coffee, food service, or retail experience. Highlight any interest in local food systems or Appalachian ingredients.

The Frisky Biscuit is an equal opportunity employer. We value reliability, craftsmanship, and a genuine enthusiasm for good food and good coffee.