Barista at Open Gate Business Development – Kalona, Iowa

Job Title: Barista-Kalona Creamery Coffee

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Location: Kalona, IA
Hours: Full-Time, Averaging 35-40 Hours/Week

About Us

Kalona Creamery Coffee is a brand-new coffee shop located within the Kalona Creamery Retail Store. We’re dedicated to crafting high-quality coffee and providing a welcoming atmosphere for our community. We take pride in serving locally sourced ingredients and creating a warm, inviting space for our customers to start their day. We are seeking an energetic, customer-focused Barista to join our team. This position includes weekday and weekend shifts.

Summary

The Barista is responsible for preparing and serving high-quality coffee and specialty beverages while delivering outstanding customer service. This role also supports retail store operations as needed, including product stocking, merchandising, transactions, and maintaining a clean, organized, and inviting environment.

Primary Duties

• Prepare and serve high-quality coffee, espresso, and specialty drinks.
• Handle basic food preparation, such as pastries and breakfast items.
• Provide exceptional customer service with a friendly and positive attitude.
• Maintain the cleanliness and organization of the coffee bar and coffee area.
• Follow all health and safety guidelines for food and beverage handling.
• Operate the cash register, handle transactions, and maintain accurate cash handling.
• Work efficiently in a fast-paced environment while maintaining quality standards.
• Support retail team members during peak traffic periods as needed.
• Represent Kalona Creamery with professionalism and a positive attitude.

Requirements

• Passion for coffee and customer service.
• Previous barista or food service experience (preferred, but not required)
• Reliable attendance, punctuality, and flexibility for early mornings and weekends.
• Strong communication skills and a team-oriented mindset
• Ability to multitask and remain composed during busy periods.
• High integrity and alignment with our mission, values, and customer-first culture.

Our Benefits

• Medical/Dental/Vision/Life Insurance, STD & LTD
• Matching 401k
• Benefit Bonus/Health Insurance Stipend
• Paid Holidays, Paid Time Off (PTO), & Birthday PTO
• Opportunity for advancement and growth
• Discounted employee purchases!

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand for extended periods (6–8 hour shifts).
• Ability to lift and carry up to 30 lbs. (milk crates, inventory boxes, supplies).
• Frequent reaching, bending, kneeling, and twisting.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment with exposure to heat (espresso machines) and cold (coolers/freezers).
• Manual dexterity to operate espresso machines, grinders, and POS systems.