Barista (Food Service Worker)

The Arnold Hall Polaris Perk Coffee Shop at the United States Air Force Academy in Colorado is seeking to fill a Non-appropriated Fund (NAF) position for a Barista. The Air Force Academy is a prestigious institution dedicated to training and educating future Air Force officers, combining military training with academic excellence. Arnold Hall caters to the needs of the Academy’s staff, students, and visitors, providing a welcoming environment where they can enjoy specialty coffee beverages and exceptional customer service. As part of the Polaris Perk Coffee Shop team, you will be contributing to a vibrant community that values dedication, professionalism, and attention to detail.

This position is classified under Non-appropriated Fund employment, meaning it is supported through revenues generated by the facility rather than federal appropriations. The employment type is listed as "Other," and this particular role does not include benefits typically found in federally funded positions. However, it offers a unique opportunity for individuals looking to gain valuable experience in a specialty coffee shop environment within a highly respected military setting.

As a Barista at the Polaris Perk Coffee Shop, you will play a critical role in delivering outstanding coffee and beverage service to a diverse clientele. The position requires knowledge and experience in specialty coffee preparation, including making espresso-based drinks and other menu items. You will be expected to memorize a variety of specialty coffee drink recipes and be familiar with different types of coffee beans and teas served at the shop. Operating equipment safely, including espresso machines and grinders, is essential to ensure quality and safety standards are met.

The job also involves physical demands such as frequently lifting objects up to 40 pounds and standing, walking, stooping, reaching, pushing, pulling, and bending for extended periods. Candidates must be able to hear and follow oral and written instructions accurately, work safely within a busy cafe environment, and perform basic arithmetic to handle transactions and measure ingredients correctly.

A Food Handler's Certificate or completion of equivalent food handler's training is mandatory before or shortly after employment begins. Additionally, candidates must pass a pre-employment physical to ensure fitness for the physical requirements of the job and successfully complete a Tier 1 background investigation to meet security requirements at the Air Force Academy.

While this position is open to all applicants, those with Business Based Action, Military Spouse Preference, Veteran status, Spouse/Widow/Parent of Veteran, or Transition Hiring Preferences will be given preference during the selection process. Applicants must submit proof of eligibility and meet all experience criteria by the closing date of June 26, 2026.

Overall, this barista role combines the art and science of specialty coffee preparation with the discipline and standards expected within a military environment. This role offers an excellent opportunity to develop your skills, work as part of a team, and serve a community that places a strong emphasis on excellence and service.