Lead Barista

American Dining Creations is a well-established division of American Food & Vending and ranks among the largest privately held hospitality service partners in the United States. With a strong national presence, the company prides itself on combining the advantages of a broad-scale operation with the flexibility, creativity, and innovation necessary to meet the unique dining needs of corporate and educational partners. Known for its excellence in culinary offerings and outstanding management practices, American Dining Creations successfully provides customized dining services that enhance the experience of students, guests, faculty, and corporate clients alike. Operating nationwide, the company employs over 2,000 individuals and serves hundreds of thousands of patrons daily through a variety of dining platforms including full café dining, mobile ordering, catering, events, and a grab-and-go program known as My Fresh Market. The company is driven by its Fresh Difference culinary philosophy, which emphasizes fresh ingredients and high-quality foodservice execution.

The role of Lead Barista at American Dining Creations is a blend of skilled beverage artistry and operational leadership within a dynamic, fast-paced café environment located in Kansas City, MO. This position is pivotal in ensuring the delivery of exceptional guest experiences by maintaining high standards in beverage preparation, customer service, and overall café atmosphere. The Lead Barista will prepare and serve premium coffee and tea beverages, including specialty espresso-based drinks, consistently adhering to recipes and quality standards. In addition to leading by example in beverage preparation, this role requires strong leadership skills to provide direction, training, and support to café team members, thereby promoting a collaborative and positive work culture aligned with the company’s values.

This position encompasses daily operational oversight, which includes opening and closing procedures, inventory management, cash handling, POS operations, and maintaining par levels of supplies. The Lead Barista will also be responsible for enforcing strict sanitation and hygiene protocols, conducting equipment checks, and ensuring compliance with all food safety and workplace safety regulations. Additionally, the Lead Barista will actively engage with guests and corporate clients, fostering rapport through knowledgeable and friendly service, while promoting featured beverages, seasonal offerings, and food pairings to enhance guest satisfaction and boost sales.

This role calls for someone who possesses excellent communication and organizational skills, can multitask effectively, and lead a team under pressure. Experience with POS systems and basic math skills is essential, along with the physical ability to lift 40 pounds, stand for extended periods, and perform repetitive motions. Flexibility in scheduling, including availability for morning shifts and occasional corporate events, is also required. American Dining Creations offers a supportive work environment with opportunities for learning and advancement, competitive weekly pay, and comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision plans, a 401K with match, employee meal and beverage during shifts, referral bonuses, and an employee assistance program. The company is committed to equal opportunity employment and offers uniforms and safety shoes to ensure a professional and safe workplace. If you have a passion for coffee culture, leadership, and delivering memorable guest experiences, this Lead Barista position represents an opportunity to grow your career within a thriving hospitality organization.