Lead Barista - PT

Barnes & Noble is a renowned bookstore chain that serves as a vibrant gathering place for readers and community members alike. Established as a leading bookseller in the United States, Barnes & Noble offers an extensive assortment of books, magazines, gifts, and music alongside a unique in-store café experience. Their bookstores are inviting spaces where customers can explore diverse literary genres, attend events, and enjoy high-quality café beverages and snacks. The company emphasizes customer service, community involvement, and providing a welcoming environment that inspires a love for reading and learning. With a rich heritage in bookselling and an expanding café service, Barnes & Noble continues to adapt to the evolving needs of customers while maintaining its position as a community cornerstone.

The role of Lead Barista at Barnes & Noble is pivotal in enriching the in-store café experience. As part of the café team leadership, the Lead Barista is responsible for guiding and supporting baristas while ensuring the quality and efficiency of café operations. This position calls for a passionate individual who thrives in a fast-paced environment and demonstrates leadership behaviors such as reliability, punctuality, teamwork, and a genuine enthusiasm for coffee making and customer interaction. A Lead Barista is both a hands-on expert and a supportive mentor who fosters a positive work environment where team members feel comfortable, valued, and motivated.

In this role, you will master operational competencies, including drink preparation, food handling, visual merchandising, customer service, and inventory management. You will lead by example, coaching team members to maintain compelling product presentation and efficient service delivery. Beyond routine tasks, the Lead Barista contributes to inventory accuracy, waste reduction, and training new team members, playing a key part in achieving sales targets and promoting café offerings like limited-time promotions and membership benefits. This position involves physical activity, including standing for extended periods, lifting, bending, and dynamic movement throughout the store.

Ideal candidates demonstrate a positive and proactive approach, inspiring colleagues and delighting customers with excellent service. You will be adept at addressing team questions and concerns, prioritizing resources to keep operations seamless, and promoting a safe and secure environment. This is a role with growth potential—developing your skill set as a Lead Barista opens pathways to further career advancements within Barnes & Noble’s bookselling and café operations. The company offers various benefits depending on weekly work hours, including employee discounts, paid time off, healthcare benefits, 401(k) with company match, and tuition reimbursement. Barnes & Noble is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity, inclusion, and providing reasonable accommodations to all applicants and employees.