Barista in Chicago, Illinois at 16 On Center

About Us:

16 On Center Chicago owns and operates several live music venues, third-party production, restaurants, bars, and food halls across Chicago and New York. Join the team of one of the country's leading independent promoters.

Our most effective service to our community comes from a team with a diverse mix of minds, backgrounds, and experiences. 16 On Center actively seeks a diverse applicant pool and encourages candidates of all backgrounds to apply. We provide equal opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment, without regard to race, religion, color, age, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, neurodiversity, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Position Summary

As a Barista at Good Ambler’s 2 North Riverside location, you will be responsible for crafting high-quality coffee and tea beverages, assisting customers with pastry and café selections, and ensuring smooth service in a fast-paced, high-volume environment serving office buildings and commuters throughout the week. Our café also experiences long, fast-moving lines on weekends. Success in this role requires a passion for hospitality, teamwork, and attention to detail.

Additional responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Preparing and serving high-quality espresso, coffee, and tea beverages
• Assisting customers with pastry and café menu selections and processing orders
• Running food from the kitchen, bussing tables, and maintaining dish cleanliness
• Stocking and preparing syrups, coffee flavorings, and other bar essentials
• Maintaining the cleanliness and organization of the bar, pastry case, and dining areas
• Providing excellent customer service and fostering positive guest relationships
• Working efficiently in a fast-paced environment while maintaining quality and composure

About You:

• Strong knowledge of coffee, tea, and espresso beverages
• Experience with restaurant POS systems
• Comfortable working in a high-volume, fast-paced environment
• Strong multitasking skills and the ability to maintain composure under pressure
• Basic floor service experience, including food running and bussing
• Excellent customer service and hospitality skills
• Effective and proactive communicator with a strong work ethic
• Flexible to work opening, mid, and closing shifts as needed
• Must have or be willing to obtain an Illinois Food Handler’s Certification
• Able to lift up to 40 lbs and stand for up to an 8-hour shift

• Job Type: Full-time, Hourly (30+ hours/week)
• Compensation: $16.60 per hour + Tips
• Paid leave and paid sick leave in accordance with Chicago requirements.
• Health insurance with employer contribution, plus voluntary dental, vision, life, short term disability, accident, and hospital coverage.
• 401(k) retirement plan with company match, once eligibility requirements are met.
• Dining discounts at 16 On Center properties and complimentary or discounted tickets to shows at 16 On Center venues, including Salt Shed, Thalia Hall, SPACE, and Empty Bottle, subject to availability.
• Transit benefits through a pre-tax payroll deduction program