Lead Barista - FT

Barnes & Noble is a distinguished and widely recognized bookstore chain that serves as a vibrant gathering place for readers and the community. The company is renowned for not only offering an extensive collection of books but also for creating inviting spaces that combine bookselling with a cafe experience. This unique combination fosters a welcoming environment where customers can enjoy browsing a diverse selection of literature while indulging in quality beverages and food. Barnes & Noble bookstores often become community hubs, hosting events, readings, and social gatherings that encourage a love of reading and learning.

Within this dynamic environment, the role of Lead Barista is essential in ensuring the smooth operation and exceptional service of the bookstore's cafe. The Lead Barista holds a leadership position on the cafe team, guiding baristas to maintain compelling product presentations and efficient service. This role is both hands-on and supervisory, requiring a trusted expert who creates a supportive and welcoming atmosphere for team members. The Lead Barista is charged with fostering a culture in which baristas feel comfortable raising questions or concerns, knowing that these will be addressed promptly and effectively.

This position requires a combination of leadership skills, operational expertise, and a genuine passion for the barista craft. The successful candidate sets the standard for attendance, punctuality, and work ethic while inspiring the team through a positive and proactive approach. Flexibility and responsiveness are critical, as Barnes & Noble stores operate from early mornings to late evenings every day, including weekends and most holidays. The Lead Barista must be willing to fill scheduling gaps and support the cafe team as needed.

The role encompasses mastering the operational competencies of a Barnes & Noble barista, including drink making, food preparation, and the use of cafe tools and processes. The Lead Barista coaches others to follow best practices in all aspects of cafe operation, including merchandising, register speed and accuracy, delivery receipt and stocking, and cleanliness and hygiene standards. They also support the broader bookstore team with presentation standards and loss prevention procedures, ensuring a safe, secure, and welcoming environment for customers and staff alike.

Physical endurance is important, as the position involves prolonged standing, repetitive bending, lifting, and a significant amount of walking. The Lead Barista may also be asked to work in multiple stores within the cluster, supporting the wider team collaboratively.

As experience grows, the Lead Barista takes on more responsibility in inventory management, training and coaching, and promoting sales objectives such as limited-time offers (LTOs), promotions, and memberships. The role offers clear opportunities for career advancement within Barnes & Noble, with a focus on continuous learning, skill development, and contributing to the overall success of the bookstore and cafe.

Ultimately, the Lead Barista role at Barnes & Noble is not only about managing daily operations but also about embodying the enjoyment and passion of being a barista. The company values individuals who demonstrate a strong commitment to customer service, teamwork, and personal growth as they build their careers in a supportive and well-established retail environment.