***INTERNAL ONLY*** Lead Barista

The Space Needle is an iconic landmark and a symbol of innovation and forward-thinking in Seattle. As a globally recognized destination, it offers visitors a unique perspective of the city's skyline and cultural vibrancy. The Space Needle operates as a premier tourist attraction and hospitality establishment, dedicated to delivering exceptional customer experiences through its team of passionate and skilled employees. The company embraces diversity and inclusion, reflecting the multicultural nature of the city and the country, ensuring equal opportunity employment for all individuals regardless of race, religion, age, gender identity, or any other protected status by law.

The role being offered is a full-time, union-represented barista position with additional responsibilities focused on training and operational management within the cafe environment. This position pays an hourly rate of $25.01 plus tips, providing a competitive compensation package complemented by a comprehensive range of benefits including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance, as well as long-term disability coverage. Additionally, the position offers pension and self-funded 401k plans, paid holidays, vacation and sick leave, tuition reimbursement, employee discounts, charitable contribution matching, and transportation subsidies.

As a barista trainer and lead, this individual will uphold the regular duties of a barista while playing a crucial role in onboarding and developing new team members. Responsibility for training involves creating and maintaining training checklists, approving the readiness of new hires to work independently, and ensuring all team members complete necessary daily operational tasks such as cleaning logs and temperature logs. The role also includes collaboration with leadership to develop new promotional offers and manage the rollout of specials in the cafe, ensuring an engaging and dynamic customer experience.

The trainer is expected to communicate effectively with leadership about both guest and team member needs, including addressing complaints, HR resources, and equipment requirements. Efficient inventory management falls under this role as well, maintaining product stocks and submitting requisitions as necessary to support daily operations. The ability to independently perform cleaning processes on equipment such as the soft serve machine is required, reinforcing the team’s commitment to maintaining high standards of cleanliness and safety. Ensuring compliance with break policies is another critical function to support the wellbeing and productivity of the team.

Physically, the position demands the ability to walk, stand, reach, lift up to 50 pounds, and undertake repetitive tasks requiring fine motor skills for an entire shift, typically approximately 8 hours. This role is perfect for individuals who thrive in fast-paced, customer-focused environments and who are enthusiastic about leadership and training responsibilities within the hospitality sector. The Space Needle's commitment to equal opportunity ensures a welcoming and supportive workplace culture, encouraging applicants with diverse backgrounds and experiences to join their team.