Barista at Plaza Operating Partners LLC – Hodgkins, Illinois

Come join the Duckies Team at Duck Stop Travel Center!

Are you ready to spread your wings and grow with a team that’s all about great food, great people, and even greater memories? At Duck Stop Travel Center, we believe work should be more than just a pit stop — it should be a place where you find purpose, connection, and a few good laughs along the way. With combined experience of almost 60 years, you'll be working with some of best industry leaders in the QSR space, Ron Coglianese and Lupe Garcia!

We’re proud to be a locally owned and operated business that values community, sustainability, and the joy of a job well done. Whether you’re serving guests, supporting your teammates, or keeping the engines of our operation running smoothly, you’ll help deliver our promise of “miles of smiles” to every traveler who walks through our doors.

Duck Stop provides benefits that we know are important to you. Benefit options may differ depending on full-time or part-time employment.

Competitive/Holiday Pay

Flexible Scheduling

Free Shift Meals

Insurance Benefits: Health, Life, Dental, Vision, Disability

Paid Time Off

401(k) Plan

Position Overview

The Barista at Duck Stop Travel Center plays a key role in creating a welcoming, friendly, and efficient experience for travelers and locals. This role is responsible for preparing high-quality beverages, maintaining a clean and organized café environment, and delivering excellent customer service with a positive attitude.

Key Responsibilities

Customer Service

• Greet all customers warmly and provide prompt, friendly service.
• Answer questions about menu items, ingredients, and specials.
• Handle customer concerns professionally and ensure guest satisfaction.

Beverage & Food Preparation

• Prepare coffee, espresso drinks, teas, blended beverages, and other café menu items according to Duck Stop standards.
• Follow recipes accurately to maintain consistent quality.
• Prepare grab-and-go food items as needed.

Cash Handling

• Operate the POS register efficiently and accurately.
• Process cash, credit, and loyalty transactions.
• Follow opening and closing cash procedures.

Cleanliness & Maintenance

• Maintain a clean and sanitary work area, including counters, machines, and dining spaces.
• Restock inventory (cups, syrups, coffee beans, food items, etc.).
• Assist with routine equipment cleaning and daily checklists.

Teamwork

• Work collaboratively with travel center staff to provide a seamless customer experience.
• Communicate effectively with team members and managers.
• Support other departments during busy periods when needed.

• Previous barista or customer service experience preferred, but not required—training provided.
• Strong communication and people skills.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
• Reliable, punctual, and able to handle high-volume shifts.
• Basic math and cash-handling skills.
• Ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 25 lbs.

Duck Stop Travel Center is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic as defined by applicable laws.