Job Description

Position Summary:

The Baker/Barista Back-up at NovelTea Coffeehouse & Bakery is a versatile and customer-focused individual who plays a dual role in supporting both baking and barista duties. This position ensures the smooth flow of daily operations by assisting in both food preparation and beverage service. Whether you are preparing fresh baked goods or stepping in to serve delicious coffees and teas, your ability to multitask, work under pressure, and create a welcoming atmosphere is key to this role. Ideal candidates will have a passion for high-quality food, coffee, and excellent customer service in a bustling cafe environment.

Duties and Responsibilities:

1. Baking and Food Preparation:

• Assist in the preparation and baking of fresh pastries, cakes, cookies, and other baked goods in accordance with NovelTea's recipes and standards.
• Work safely with ovens, hot grills, and other kitchen equipment, ensuring all safety protocols are followed when handling hot surfaces and tools.
• Ensure baked goods are presented attractively and served fresh to customers.
• Maintain cleanliness in the bakery area and adhere to health and safety standards.

2. Barista Support:

• Step in as a back-up barista to prepare and serve coffee, specialty drinks, teas, and food during busy shifts.
• Follow NovelTea's standards to ensure consistency in beverage quality, taste, and presentation.
• Keep the coffee bar clean and well-stocked with supplies for beverage prep.

3. Customer Service:

• Greet customers warmly and assist them with menu selections, explaining various offerings and making recommendations.
• Provide exceptional service by making customers feel valued and ensuring their orders are prepared accurately and quickly.
• Address any customer concerns or issues with a positive and solution-oriented attitude.

4. Order Taking & Cash Handling:

• Accurately take customer orders, handle cash, and process payments through the point-of-sale system.

5. Cleanliness and Organization:

• Maintain a clean and organized work environment at both the baking and coffee preparation stations.
• Follow all health and safety guidelines regarding food safety and cleanliness.
• Perform regular cleaning duties, including the washing of dishes, equipment, and cleaning of surfaces throughout the cafe.

6. Stocking Supplies and Ingredients:

• Assist in maintaining stock levels for both the bakery and cafe.
• Ensure that ingredients for both baked goods and beverages are replenished in a timely and organized manner.

7. Team Collaboration:

• Work together with other staff members to ensure smooth daily operations of the cafe and bakery.
• Flexibility to take on additional responsibilities as required during peak periods or special events.

Core Values:

• Customer Focused: Ability to foster a warm, welcoming atmosphere for guests while providing high-quality service.
• Multitasking Ability: Can efficiently switch between barista and baking duties as needed, keeping up with demand and maintaining quality.
• Teamwork: Works collaboratively with others to ensure smooth operations in both the bakery and cafe areas.
• Adaptability: Able to work in a dynamic environment and adjust to varying work schedules, including stepping into different roles.
• Communication Skills: Communicates clearly and effectively with customers, supervisors, and team members.

Required Skills and Qualifications:

• Previous experience in baking or food preparation is preferred but not required (home bakers are welcome!)
• Experience in customer service or barista work is an asset.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment while maintaining a high standard of work.
• Flexible to work weekends, evenings, and holidays. Some shifts start at 5am and others start later in the day and go until 6pm, at least one weekend day each week is required.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to stand for long periods (up to 9 hours) and lift up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to follow recipes, measure ingredients accurately, and keep track of inventory.
• Comfort with using hot equipment (ovens, grills), knives, and other baking tools safely and efficiently.

Working Conditions / Physical Demands:

• Environment: Fast-paced cafe and bakery environment with frequent customer interaction and a focus on teamwork.
• Physical Demands: Must be able to stand for extended periods, bend, and lift items weighing up to 50 pounds (e.g., ingredients, trays). Must be able to tolerate heat, noise, and the physical demands of working in a cafe and bakery setting.
• Schedule: Must be available for flexible scheduling, including weekends, evenings, and holidays.
• Compensation: Minimum wage, with opportunities for tips and other performance-based incentives.

Job Type: Part-time

Pay: From $15.20 per hour

Expected hours: 20 - 35 per week

Additional pay:

• Tips

Benefits:

• Casual dress
• Discounted or free food
• Flexible schedule
• Store discount

Flexible language requirement:

• French not required

Schedule:

• Day shift
• Monday to Friday
• Morning shift
• Weekends as needed

Work Location: In person

Application deadline: 2025-02-18