Barista

Empire JointStar (Empire) is a prominent retail company based in the United States, affiliated with Dallas Holdings International (Dallas), a global organization. Dallas is a strategic partner of Pret A Manger (Pret), an internationally recognized Food To Go and coffee shop franchise known for its freshly made food and organic coffee offerings. Empire oversees the operations of over 70 Pret A Manger shops across the US and the UK, with a significant presence in regions including New York City, Washington DC, Pennsylvania, and expanding opportunities in California. With headquarters located in New York City, Empire is focused on rapid growth and expansion of the Pret A Manger brand through excellence in customer service, product quality, and team development.

Pret A Manger shops are celebrated for their commitment to providing high-quality food and beverages while delivering a unique, fast-paced cafe experience to customers. Each location is designed to operate efficiently while fostering a welcoming and engaging environment. The company emphasizes community, sustainability, and the professional growth of its employees through platforms like The Pret Academy, dedicated to training and development.

The role of a Pret Barista within this dynamic organization is vital for maintaining the high standards of drink preparation and customer service that Pret is known for. As a Pret Barista, you will work as part of a team dedicated to serving all drinks to the required Pret standard, with a key focus on excellent drink quality and delivering amazing service with the unique 'Pret Buzz' – an energetic and warm customer interaction style.

This full-time position offers a competitive wage of $18.50 per hour plus tips and a mystery shopper bonus, highlighting the company's commitment to rewarding employees who uphold its rigorous standards. Additionally, there is a $100 referral bonus as an incentive for recommending qualified candidates.

Your responsibilities include coaching and training new team members and baristas-in-training on drink preparation and service standards, ensuring the availability and currency of hot drinks training materials, and maintaining equipment cleanliness and functionality. You will also lead coffee team briefs and participate in relevant meetings and courses to stay updated with Pret’s coffee story and menu.

Ensuring the quality of all Barista Prepared Drinks and creating Pret Buzz through positive customer engagement are crucial aspects of this role. You will strive to serve drinks within the company’s 60-second standard, delighting customers with skills such as latte art and demonstrating deep product knowledge. The role extends to overseeing waste control, managing sales targets, and contributing to the overall profitability and hygiene of the shop.

Working at Pret means being part of a friendly, fun, and fast-paced environment with passionate teams committed to quality and customer satisfaction. The company offers extensive benefits including health, dental, vision insurance, a 401K retirement plan, generous paid time off, life insurance, child bonding leave, and perks like free breakfast and lunch when working. Transit programs, pet insurance, and quarterly nationwide team events further enhance the workplace experience.

Empire and Pret are dedicated to fostering an inclusive workplace, committed to equal employment opportunities regardless of race, gender, age, disability, or any other protected status. Joining as a Pret Barista means becoming part of a diverse team where your skills contribute to the success and growth of the brand.