Davenport Coffee Lounge Barista (Student) (FWS)

American University, located in Washington, D.C., is a prestigious institution known for fostering student growth, community engagement, and academic excellence. American University emphasizes providing employment opportunities that allow students to work where they learn, enabling them to build experience, grow skills, and actively contribute to the university community. This approach ensures students not only gain valuable work experience but also remain connected and engaged with their campus environment during their academic journey.

This particular opportunity is within American University's School of International Service at the Davenport Coffeehouse, a beloved coffeehouse and campus institution since 1980. The Dav is a non-profit, student-run coffee shop dedicated to supporting Fair and Direct Trade, local, and organic products, while emphasizing sustainable practices. The coffeehouse has a strong cultural presence on campus and is committed to providing an outstanding, welcoming customer experience to students, faculty, staff, and visitors. With a focus on community and sustainability, The Dav aims to be a leader among coffee shops in the D.C. area.

The role is a part-time student position with a non-exempt FLSA status, offering approximately 10 hours per week and a competitive wage ranging from $18.40 to $18.50 per hour. It is exclusively available to enrolled American University undergraduate students holding a Federal Work Study (FWS) award, which can only be applied to one on-campus position. The responsibility of the role involves working in a fast-paced, high-volume environment, learning essential barista skills, and contributing to various operational duties of the coffeehouse.

Employees in this role will receive extensive on-the-job training and are encouraged to take an active role that includes preparing espresso and coffee beverages, participating in catering and maintenance tasks, supporting sustainable shop operations, and presenting creative ideas to improve the coffeehouse. While prior barista experience is valued, it is not required, and all new hires will be trained to meet The Dav's standards. Flexibility in scheduling is important, as shifts may range from early mornings starting at 6:45 a.m. through 9:00 p.m., seven days a week.

Working at The Dav offers students a unique opportunity to develop critical interpersonal and teamwork skills through direct engagement with a diverse campus community. The organization fosters a collaborative work culture where positive attitudes, enthusiasm, and attention to detail are highly encouraged. Joining The Dav means being part of a historic student-run initiative with a mission to provide high-quality, ethical products while promoting sustainable and socially responsible business practices. This position is ideal for students interested in food service, customer service, sustainability, or those looking to enhance their professional experience while continuing their education at American University.