Lead Barista

The Lead Barista oversees daily coffee shop operations within Rice Retail Dining while delivering an elevated hospitality experience aligned with Rice Hospitality standards. This role leads by example in beverage execution, guest engagement, and team development. It ensures consistency in product quality, service standards, and operational efficiency.

The Lead Barista supports multiple retail café locations, training, coaching, and guiding student workers and barista teams alongside management. Responsibilities include maintaining brand standards, driving beverage-focused sales, and executing food safety, sanitation, and cash handling procedures with precision. Cross-training and operational support occur across at least two coffee shop locations on campus.

This fully on-site position works across Rice Retail Dining café locations with schedules varying based on operational needs, Monday–Saturday from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. The fast-paced café environment involves exposure to kitchen equipment, coffee machinery, and high-volume service periods. Hazards include hot liquids, espresso equipment, cleaning chemicals, and wet or slippery floors.

The ideal candidate thrives as a hands-on leader passionate about hospitality-driven service in a fast-paced setting. They balance operational execution with team development, crafting high-quality beverages and creating welcoming environments. Join a top-ranked university community guided by RICE values: Responsibility, Integrity, Community, and Excellence.