Position Overview
The Lead Barista is responsible for delivering an exceptional coffee program while leading and supporting the front-of-house team. This role combines technical expertise in high-volume espresso service with strong leadership, training, and operational oversight.
The Lead Barista sets the standard for drink quality, speed, cleanliness, and hospitality—ensuring every guest interaction reflects the Sagaponack General Store experience.
Compensation
- Hourly Rate: $24/hour + tips
Location & Schedule
- Sagaponack General Store 542 Sagg Main Street, Sagaponack, NY
- Full-time, variable schedule including weekends
Reports To
- General Manager & Assistant General Manager
Supervisory Scope
- Oversees barista team during shifts, especially in the absence of a manager
- Works alongside the GM & AGM to train, guide, and uphold standards across FOH
Core ResponsibilitiesCoffee Program & Drink Execution
- Dial in espresso daily and adjust throughout service to maintain consistency
- Execute all drinks with precision, speed, and adherence to established recipes
- Maintain deep knowledge of coffee offerings and educate guests when appropriate
- Ensure quality control across all barista staff during service
Training & Team Development
- Train all new baristas on espresso preparation, workflow, and service standards
- Conduct ongoing check-ins to ensure consistency and confidence across the team
- Develop and maintain Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for drinks and workflows
- Lead by example in pace, cleanliness, and hospitality
Inventory & Ordering
- Monitor coffee, milk, gas, and barista supply inventory across the store
- Place and coordinate orders as needed to avoid shortages
- Maintain pars and communicate proactively about low stock or disruptions
Equipment Management
- Maintain espresso machines, grinders, and related equipment
- Troubleshoot issues in real-time to avoid service disruption
- Coordinate repairs and service with La Colombe when necessary
- Ensure machines are cleaned thoroughly at the end of each shift
Cleanliness & Station Organization
- Maintain a clean, organized, and fully stocked barista station at all times
- Enforce strict cleanliness standards across all barista work areas
- Ensure end-of-shift breakdown and cleaning is completed to standard
Guest Experience & Service
- Deliver warm, knowledgeable, and efficient service to every guest
- Support FOH operations by assisting with order packaging and service flow
- Resolve guest concerns professionally and escalate when needed
- Foster a culture of hospitality within the team
Retail & Operational Oversight
- Supervise store operations when a manager is not present
- Ensure standards are upheld across:
- Cleanliness and sanitation
- Merchandising and product presentation
- Stocking and organization
- Order accuracy and service flow
- Communicate clearly with management regarding operational needs
Team Leadership & Culture
- Create a positive, respectful, and high-performing work environment
- Hold team members accountable to SGS standards through example and communication
- Report performance issues or operational gaps to management
- Maintain a workplace free of harassment and aligned with company values
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)Drink Quality & Consistency
- 95–100% adherence to established recipes and standards
- Minimal remakes due to quality issues
- Deliver drinks to customers in a timely manner (under three minutes when slow, communicate with FOH when there will be a delay on drinks)
Speed & Efficiency
- Consistent ability to perform in high-volume service without sacrificing quality
- Maintain strong ticket times during peak hours
Training Effectiveness
- New baristas trained to standard within 3–5 shifts
- Reduction in drink errors and workflow inefficiencies over time
Inventory Management
- Zero outages of core coffee or barista supplies
- Orders placed on schedule with accurate pars maintained
Equipment Uptime
- Minimal service interruptions due to equipment issues
- Daily cleaning and maintenance completed without exception
Cleanliness & Organization
- Barista station consistently maintained at SGS standards
- Successful close-outs with no carryover issues to next shift
Guest Experience
- Positive guest interactions and feedback
- Ability to resolve issues quickly and professionally
Leadership & Accountability
- Proactive communication with management
- Strong team performance during shifts without direct supervision
- Clear identification and reporting of operational gaps
Expectations for Success
- Strong technical barista skills in a high-volume environment
- Leadership presence and ability to guide a team in real time
- Highly organized with attention to detail
- Calm and efficient under pressure
- Deep commitment to hospitality and team culture
Pay: From $24.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Employee discount
- Paid sick time
- Paid time off
- Referral program
Work Location: In person
