Barista

The Great Plains Zoo, located in a vibrant community known for its dedication to conservation and education, is seeking passionate individuals to join its Food and Beverage (F&B) team. As a cherished cultural attraction, the zoo offers visitors an immersive experience that combines animal exhibits with engaging guest services, including a welcoming café environment. The establishment fosters a lively atmosphere that emphasizes hospitality, quality service, and memorable experiences for guests of all ages, enhancing their overall visit to the zoo.

This position is perfect for enthusiastic individuals eager to work in a dynamic, fast-paced setting where coffee, hospitality, and fun come together. The barista role plays a vital part in the guest journey, preparing high-quality beverages, maintaining cleanliness and operational standards, and ensuring every guest encounters warm and attentive service. With standard operational hours from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM and occasional extended hours for special events, this role requires flexibility and weekend availability to align with the zoo’s schedule.

Joining the Great Plains Zoo's F&B team means becoming part of SSA, a company with over 50 years of experience partnering with cultural institutions to design hospitality experiences that prioritize mission focus and guest satisfaction. SSA integrates admissions, culinary arts, and retail innovation to drive seamless guest journeys while emphasizing people, innovation, and operational intelligence. Their approach, branded as 452 Hospitality, underpins how they engage partners and their communities by creating special moments lasting beyond a single visit.

As a barista at the Great Plains Zoo, you will report to the Food Service Supervisor and Manager, collaborating closely to deliver exceptional customer experiences. The role’s responsibilities extend beyond crafting beverages to ensuring a clean, safe, and friendly environment aligned with rigorous quality and safety standards. Embracing the 452 Hospitality philosophy involves being personable, professional, and proactive, engaging guests with knowledge of all menu items, specials, and pricing.

The position also advocates diversity and inclusion, fostering a culture of belonging and sustainability. Employees are encouraged to participate in community efforts, conservation initiatives, and continuous learning opportunities. This commitment supports the overarching mission to remove barriers, empower growth, and promote an inclusive team environment.

Compensation for this role includes eligibility for overtime pay and access to an On-Demand Pay Program that provides earned wages before payday. Additional benefits include employee meal plans, discounts, participation in a 401(k) plan with a company match, tuition discounts, bereavement leave, and holiday pay at 1.5 times the regular rate for specific holidays. Paid sick leave is provided in accordance with local laws, offering financial security and work-life balance.

The Great Plains Zoo and SSA prioritize work environment safety through compliance with strict hygiene protocols, uniform standards, food safety logs, and sanitation procedures. Baristas must be adaptable, efficient, and capable of managing guest feedback constructively, contributing to continuous operational improvements. If you are a team player who enjoys a lively, guest-centered workplace and values growth, learning, and community impact, this barista opportunity at the Great Plains Zoo offers a fulfilling and rewarding career path.