Barista

Empire JointStar (Empire) is a leading retailer in the United States, operating as an affiliate of Dallas Holdings International (Dallas), a global organization known for its strategic partnerships within the food and beverage industry. Dallas is a strategic partner of Pret A Manger (Pret), a well-respected Food To Go and coffee shop franchise renowned for its freshly made food and organic coffee offerings. Empire currently owns over 70 Pret A Manger shops across the US and UK, demonstrating a significant presence in these markets with a robust expansion strategy. Empire's portfolio includes more than 50 Pret A Manger locations spread across key regions including New York, Washington DC, and Pennsylvania, with upcoming opportunities in California. The company is headquartered in New York City and prides itself on being innovative, customer-centric, and committed to quality.

As a Pret Barista at Empire, you will work full-time and receive a competitive salary of $18.50 per hour, plus tips and performance incentives such as a Mystery Shopper Bonus. There is also a referral bonus of $100 for successful recommendations. This role is integral to maintaining the high standards of Pret A Manger, focusing on delivering excellent drink quality and excellent customer service infused with the unique Pret 'Buzz' experience. Working as part of a dynamic team, Pret Baristas are responsible for drink preparation, drink counter operation, cleanliness, equipment maintenance, and team training. The role demands a passion for coffee and people, attention to detail, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment.

The Barista will be involved in coaching and training new team members and Baristas-in-training on the preparation of drinks and service standards. Collaboration with management is key to ensure that all Barista Prepared Drinks training is effectively planned and executed. Baristas will also carry out coffee team briefings and attend relevant meetings and courses to stay updated on Pret’s standards and training materials. Serving drinks to the 60-second standard is essential to creating the Pret Buzz, which means delivering prompt service while engaging positively with customers and team members alike. The craftsmanship of 'wow' moments, including latte art, is highly valued to enhance customer experiences.

Quality control is paramount. Baristas are expected to make all drinks to Pret standards consistently and role model knowledge about Pret’s coffee offerings and preparation methods. Maintaining equipment, cleanliness of the barista counter, performing daily and weekly maintenance checks, and observing waste control protocols are vital tasks to ensure operational efficiency and profitability at every location. Baristas are also responsible for helping maximize sales by understanding sales targets, tracking sales metrics, encouraging promotional samples, and recognizing regular customers.

Empire JointStar offers a work culture that values training and personal development through The Pret Academy, an initiative to support employee growth. Employees benefit from comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans, weekly bonuses, retirement plans, paid time off, and other perks including pet insurance, company-sponsored life insurance with short- and long-term disability coverage, child bonding leave, and convenient transit programs. The work environment is friendly, fun, and fast-paced with passionate teams dedicated to delivering high-quality food and beverages every day. Furthermore, the company is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion, welcoming candidates from all backgrounds and walks of life.