Student Worker Barista

About Company:

For over 40 years, Quest Food Management Services has been a leading food service provider serving K-12 schools, higher education institutions, corporate dining programs, and event venues. Quest is consistently ranked among the top food service management companies in the United States for its commitment to fresh, scratch made menus, local sourcing, and intensely personal service. At the heart of our success is our “Quest Ready” culture, built on integrity, responsiveness, accountability, respect, and excellence. Being Quest Ready means serving with purpose and care, creating experiences that are nourishing, welcoming, and reliable. This mindset empowers our teams to build lasting relationships and continually raise the standard for great hospitality in every community we serve.

About the Role:

The Student Worker Barista position is designed to provide an engaging and supportive environment for students to develop valuable customer service and beverage preparation skills within the retail trade industry. The primary goal of this role is to deliver exceptional coffee and beverage experiences to customers while maintaining a clean, organized, and welcoming café environment. This position offers hands-on experience in operating espresso machines, handling cash transactions, and managing inventory, all while balancing academic commitments. The role also emphasizes teamwork, communication, and time management, enabling student workers to grow professionally and personally. Ultimately, the Student Worker Barista contributes to the overall success of the café by ensuring customer satisfaction and fostering a positive community atmosphere.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Currently enrolled as a student at University of Missouri - St. Louis.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including early mornings, evenings, and weekends as needed.
• Basic math skills for handling cash transactions accurately.
• Strong communication skills and a friendly, customer-focused attitude.
• Ability to stand for extended periods and perform repetitive tasks in a fast-paced environment.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Previous experience in a customer service or food service role.
• Familiarity with coffee brewing equipment and beverage preparation techniques.
• Ability to multitask effectively while maintaining attention to detail.
• Knowledge of health and safety standards related to food service.
• Demonstrated teamwork and problem-solving skills.

Responsibilities:

• Prepare and serve a variety of coffee and tea beverages according to established recipes and customer preferences.
• Greet customers warmly, take orders accurately, and provide knowledgeable recommendations about menu items.
• Operate cash registers and handle monetary transactions with accuracy and integrity.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of the café, including workstations, equipment, and seating areas.
• Restock supplies and inventory as needed, and communicate any shortages or equipment issues to management.
• Collaborate with team members to ensure smooth daily operations and a positive customer experience.
• Adhere to all health and safety regulations, including proper food handling and sanitation procedures.

Skills:

The required skills such as communication and customer service are essential for engaging with customers and ensuring their satisfaction throughout their visit. Basic math and cash handling skills are used daily to process transactions accurately and efficiently. Time management and multitasking abilities help the barista balance multiple orders and maintain workflow during busy periods. Preferred skills like familiarity with coffee equipment and beverage preparation enhance the quality and consistency of drinks served. Additionally, teamwork and problem-solving skills contribute to a collaborative work environment, enabling the team to address challenges promptly and maintain a positive café atmosphere.