Head Barista / Café Lead

Job Overview:

We are seeking an energetic and passionate Head Barista / Café Lead to inspire and lead our vibrant café team. In this pivotal role, you will oversee daily operations, ensure exceptional customer service, and craft high-quality coffee beverages that delight our guests. You’re not just making coffee- you’re building a menu, a moment, and a machine that runs clean.

We’re looking for a Head Barista who lives at the intersection of craft, culture, and leadership. Someone

who can spot a trend before it peaks, translate it into a sellable drink, and lead a team that executes it flawlessly at volume.

Duties

• Develop and evolve a trend-forward drink menu (seasonal, viral, and signature)
• Create high-margin, repeatable beverages that actually move units—not just look good on Instagram
• Lead, train, and manage barista staff with clear standards and accountability
• Oversee day-to-day café operations (workflow, prep systems, service speed, quality control)
• Maintain consistency in product, presentation, and customer experience
• Collaborate on brand moments, activations, and in-store campaigns

Requirements

• Strong barista background with proven creativity in drink development
• Deep awareness of current coffee + beverage trends (TikTok, specialty cafés, etc.)
• Leadership experience—can manage people, not just drinks
• Operational mindset: you think in systems, margins, and efficiency
• High standards, low ego, and the ability to execute under pressure

Bonus Points:

• Experience scaling menus or opening new locations
• Understanding of COGS, pricing strategy, and inventory management
• A point of view- you know what’s next, not just what’s now

The Role:

• This is a leadership position with real influence. You’ll help define the menu, shape the team, and build a café experience people come back for.

Experience:

• Barista: 3 years (Preferred)

Location:

• Waterloo, IL 62298 (Preferred)

Ability to Commute:

• Waterloo, IL 62298 (Required)
• Work Location: In person

Pay estimate: $15.00 - $18.00 per hour