Lead Barista

About the Position

We are in the process of establishing a boba tea and milkshake brand from the ground up, currently operating from a cloud kitchen with plans to open a physical location soon. We are searching for a Lead Barista who will assume comprehensive responsibility for our beverage program - ensuring consistency, quality, and leading recipe development as we expand.

This role demands a proactive, hands-on individual eager to build and grow with us during the early phases rather than joining a fully operational business.

Key Responsibilities

• Create and develop innovative recipes including new flavors, seasonal specials, and menu expansions, taking concepts through to final formulations.
• Manage ongoing menu refinement by adjusting existing drinks in response to customer feedback, cost considerations, and quality consistency.
• Prepare and serve beverages according to brand standards, maintaining consistency and efficiency under busy conditions.
• Oversee quality control measures, including taste-testing, ensuring ingredient freshness, and adhering strictly to portioning guidelines.
• Maintain ingredient inventory, monitoring stock levels and initiating reorders proactively to prevent shortages.
• Ensure all hygiene and food safety protocols are continuously upheld.
• Train and mentor junior staff members as the team grows.
• Collaborate closely with the founders to make decisions regarding menu offerings and beverage strategies as we transition to our commercial venue.

Candidate Profile

• Previous experience as a barista or in food and beverage preparation; experience with boba or tea is advantageous but not essential.
• Passionate about flavor, consistency, and the craft of beverage making beyond just following recipes.
• Adaptable to a small, dynamic startup environment where processes and priorities evolve quickly.
• Dependable and organized, capable of managing stock and ingredients independently without supervision.
• Strong communication skills, comfortable working directly with founders in a close-knit team.
• Additional qualifications such as experience in recipe costing, menu planning, or running a small kitchen or bar are considered a plus.