Barista in Santa Cruz, California at La Bahia Resort and Spa

ABOUT US:

Nestled along the Pacific Coast, La Bahia Hotel & Spa celebrates its dramatic setting where the tip of Monterey Bay touches Sana Cruz's coveted Main Beach. Steeped in the romantic beauty of Spanish-Mediterranean architecture, locals and travelers alike will savor globally influenced cuisine, cocktails and wellness rituals infused with the region's agricultural bounty and coast-cultured Spirit.

SUMMARY:

The Barista will craft exceptional coffee experiences with artistry and precision, transforming each cup into a moment of delight for our guests. This role will combine technical mastery of specialty coffee with intuitive, personalized service that will elevate the guest experiences. By delivering impeccable service, the Barista will uphold La Bahia Hotel & Spa’s service standards (inspired by Forbes) while elevating our beachfront property.

DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITY:

• Operate professional espresso machines with precision, ensuring perfect extraction (18–22 sec shots) and milk texture.
• Create Instagram-worthy latte art (hearts, rosettas, etc.) and master manual brew methods.
• Guide guests through our rotating single-origin offerings and signature drinks, offering tailored recommendations.
• Maintain a showroom-worthy coffee bar at all times: polished equipment and spotless countertops, perfectly aligned serveware and retail displays, and freshly stocked condiment stations (raw sugars, cinnamon sticks).
• Adhere to strict opening/closing checklists, including daily grinder calibration and machine backflushing and glass door/wiping of pastry cases to remove fingerprints.
• Attend coffee masterclasses with our partnering roaster.
• Complete certifications in new brewing techniques or equipment.
• Share learned skills with the team during team meeting sessions.
• Remember VIP guests’ preferred orders and preparation styles.
• Present drinks on bespoke ceramic serveware with tasting notes.
• Minimize noise during service (no clattering pitchers or cups).
• Maintain impeccable grooming standards, wearing the assigned uniform exactly as specified (proper fit, cleanliness, and presentation at all times.
• Wear the official hotel lapel pin prominently as part of the uniform requirement, unless embroidered onto uniform.
• Perform all other duties that may be assigned as needed by your manager.

The following reflects management’s definition of essential functions for this job but does not restrict the tasks that may be assigned. Management may assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time due to reasonable accommodation or other reasons.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• (2) years of experience in a barista role, luxury hotel and/or resort preferred
• Ability to be standing long periods of time
• Multilingual abilities highly preferred
• Capable of maintaining composure during peak hours
• Comfortable in varying outdoor weather conditions
• Capability to carry coffee bean bags and milk crates (Up to 25lbs)
• Must be able to stand for prolonged periods
• Flexible to work in different shifts, including early morning, weekends, and holidays
• Highly organized with the ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment
• Ability to work independently and in a team environment

This role offers a dynamic work environment where your contributions directly impact the guest experience. If you are dedicated to personalized service, guest satisfaction, and enjoy working in a high-end atmosphere, we invite you to join our Coffee Bar team at La Bahia Hotel.