Lead Barista

Birdie's Barroom & Kitchen is a vibrant and beloved establishment located at the heart of Raleigh's Fayetteville Street. Nestled steps from the Capitol, Birdie's has become a cornerstone of the community, known for its warm hospitality, handcrafted cocktails, and honest, seasonal North Carolina cuisine. Since its inception in 1999, Birdie's has embodied the spirit of neighborhood togetherness, offering a welcoming environment where locals and visitors alike can enjoy quality food and drink while connecting with one another. The restaurant celebrates the richness of North Carolina's seasonal ingredients, drawing inspiration from the state's abundant natural resources to offer a distinctive menu that honors local flavors and culinary traditions.

The Lead Barista position at Birdie's Barroom & Kitchen stands as a critical role within the front-of-house team, responsible for ensuring an exceptional coffee and beverage experience for patrons from morning until evening. This is more than just a job; it is an opportunity to be a key part of a community-focused establishment where hospitality, quality, and service are paramount. The Lead Barista acts as an ambassador for Birdie's, upholding the restaurant's reputation by maintaining high standards in every interaction, whether crafting beautifully made drinks or engaging with guests in a friendly and knowledgeable manner.

The compensation for this role ranges from $18 to $20 per hour, plus tips, rewarding the expertise and dedication brought to this position. As a Lead Barista, you will take charge of opening and closing the cafe, expertly preparing both hot and cold beverages—ranging from classic espresso drinks to innovative coffee and tea specialties—and serving complementary baked goods and pastries. You will be relied upon to lead and train the front-of-house cafe team, ensuring that new hires are well-equipped to deliver top-tier service while fostering a supportive and collaborative work environment.

This role demands a strong command of interpersonal communication skills, a proactive attitude, and trustworthiness. The ideal candidate thrives under pressure, works efficiently, and demonstrates a positive, customer-focused disposition at all times. Expect to engage with customers by answering questions, providing detailed product knowledge, and recommending drinks that align with individual preferences—further driving sales through upselling specials. Handling cash and card transactions accurately while balancing tills is also part of your responsibility.

In addition to crafting beverages and managing front-of-house operations, you will maintain the cleanliness and organization of the cafe, ensuring compliance with health and safety standards to protect both customers and staff. Birdie's commitment to community and quality extends beyond the plate and cup to foster an environment where employees feel supported both professionally and personally.

Working at Birdie's means enjoying not only competitive pay but a comprehensive benefits package that supports long-term career growth. Benefits include 401(k) with company contributions up to 4%, shift meals, discounted dining opportunities, and flexible scheduling designed to offer job stability and work-life balance. Since Birdie's has been a stable presence in Raleigh for over two decades, employees can expect consistent opportunities for learning and advancement within a fun and welcoming workplace.

If you are passionate about coffee culture, eager to lead a dedicated team, and committed to exceptional hospitality, the Lead Barista role at Birdie's Barroom & Kitchen invites you to join a community-driven establishment where your skills will be valued and nurtured. Apply today to become part of making a difference by enriching the local community experience one cup at a time.