Job Overview

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Compensation

Hourly
Range $13.25 - $15.25
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Benefits

employee discount
Employee assistance program
sick pay
Paid Time Off
maternity and parental leave
Company paid holidays
Transit Benefits
401(k) with Company Match
Comprehensive health benefits
Dental Insurance
Vision Insurance
Healthcare spending accounts
Dependent care spending accounts
Disability Benefits
Life insurance
Tuition Reimbursement

Job Description

Barnes & Noble is a renowned bookstore chain that emphasizes creating a welcoming and engaging environment for readers and community members alike. Known for its vast collection of books and inviting atmosphere, Barnes & Noble stores often feature in-house cafes, providing an additional space for relaxation and socialization. Each bookstore serves as a cultural hub where customers can enjoy a delightful blend of literature and cafe experiences under one roof. The company values its team members and strives to deliver excellent service and an enjoyable shopping and dining experience for all visitors.

At Barnes & Noble, the role of a Barista is vital to the success of the cafe and overall store environment. The Barista is central to the team, acting as the face and voice of the cafe, greeting customers cheerfully, responding to their inquiries, and skillfully guiding readers to their ideal beverages and snack selections. This position is not only about making coffee and food but about fostering deep community connections by enhancing each customer’s visit with friendly and personalized service.

Working as a Barista at Barnes & Noble involves multifaceted responsibilities: maintaining an appealing cafe presentation, handling operational tasks such as stocking and tidying, efficiently operating registers with a warm and professional demeanor, and supporting cohesive teamwork. Baristas engage with a variety of technologies, including registers, computers, and tablets, allowing for smooth cafe operations and customer transactions. They are trained to master operational competencies that are crucial for the rapid and accurate preparation of beverages and food items, following guidelines like FIFO practices and maintaining high standards of hygiene, sanitation, and safety within the cafe.

The position demands physical stamina due to activities such as prolonged standing, repetitive bending, lifting, and walking, making it essential for candidates to be physically capable and motivated. Flexibility is key, as shifts can span early mornings to late evenings, including weekends and holidays, requiring dependability and a positive attitude to fill scheduling needs as they arise. Baristas are also encouraged to develop expertise in cafe products, merchandising, and promotions, allowing them to contribute meaningfully to the store’s overall sales goals and customer engagement.

Barnes & Noble views the Barista role as a foundation for career growth, expecting team members to enjoy their work and advance to positions such as Senior Barista. Senior Baristas embrace additional challenges and opportunities for leadership and skill development. The company fosters a supportive workplace culture, emphasizing teamwork, kindness among colleagues, and a shared commitment to delivering exceptional customer experiences.

Barnes & Noble offers a tiered benefits system tied to work hours. Part-time employees working fewer than 20 hours weekly enjoy perks like Employee Discounts, Employee Assistance Programs (EAP), and Sick Pay. Those working between 20 and 29.99 hours receive these benefits plus Paid Time Off, including paid Maternity and Parental Leave, Company Paid Holidays, Transit benefits, and a 401(k) with Company Match. Full-time employees working 30 or more hours weekly are entitled to comprehensive health benefits, including medical, dental, vision coverage, healthcare and dependent care spending accounts, disability benefits, life insurance, and tuition reimbursement, in addition to all previously mentioned benefits. Benefits vary by location and are subject to plan terms and future adjustments.

This position is ideal for individuals who are passionate about customer service, enjoy a fast-paced and dynamic work environment, and have a genuine love for books and beverages. The Barista role is integral to the Barnes & Noble experience, blending hospitality with literary culture and offering a rewarding path with professional growth and rich benefits.

Job Requirements

  • maintain reliable and punctual attendance for scheduled shifts
  • fill scheduling gaps with flexibility and responsiveness
  • perform assigned tasks with energy and purpose
  • be supportive and kind to team members
  • demonstrate cheerful customer service
  • show aptitude for learning new skills
  • enjoy working as a barista

Job Qualifications

  • high school diploma or equivalent
  • prior experience in food service or retail preferred
  • strong customer service skills
  • ability to operate point-of-sale systems
  • knowledge of food safety and hygiene standards
  • excellent communication and interpersonal skills
  • willingness to learn and develop cafe product knowledge

Job Duties

  • welcome customers cheerfully and assist with questions
  • operate registers quickly and professionally
  • prepare food and beverages accurately using recipe guides
  • maintain cafe cleanliness through daily and weekly tasks
  • stock and organize deliveries efficiently
  • support bookfloor team as needed
  • follow loss prevention procedures and de-escalation techniques

Job Criteria

Experience

No experience required


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