Barista/Kitchen – Cross Trained Position Available In Newport, Rhode Island

Barista/Kitchen – Cross Trained 4.8 4.8 out of 5 stars Newport, RI About Empire Tea & Coffee At Empire Tea & Coffee, we are a community-focused café and roastery with a 20-year history of serving high-quality coffee, tea, and food. Our newest location emphasizes a fresh and exciting food-focused menu alongside our beloved beverage offerings. We believe in pursuing better through intentional practice, teamwork, and exceptional customer experiences. Position Overview We are seeking enthusiastic and flexible team members to join our newest café location. This role combines traditional barista duties with expanded food preparation responsibilities. You will be cross-trained to seamlessly work in two main areas:

Barista Area:

Crafting beverages, engaging with customers, and delivering outstanding coffee and tea experiences.

Kitchen Area:

Preparing food items from our Mediterranean-inspired menu, assembling orders, and maintaining kitchen cleanliness. As a Café Team Member, you will actively contribute to a customer-facing, dynamic environment where teamwork, efficiency, and quality are essential.

Key Responsibilities Beverage Preparation:

Prepare hot, iced, and specialty drinks following company recipes and standards.

Food Preparation:

Assemble and prepare food items, including sandwiches, salads, eggs, and other menu items, ensuring presentation, quality, and consistency.

Customer Interaction:

Take orders, serve food and drinks, and provide exceptional service in a fast-paced environment.

Cross-Functional Duties:

Rotate between the barista station and kitchen area throughout shifts, adapting to customer demand.

Cleaning & Dishwashing:

Maintain cleanliness in both the kitchen and barista areas, including washing dishes and keeping workstations tidy.

Team Collaboration:

Work as part of a team to maintain smooth and efficient operations. Assist coworkers and communicate effectively.

Stocking & Prep:

Restock supplies, prep ingredients for food service, and ensure all stations are ready for peak hours. Qualifications Previous experience in food service, kitchen prep, or as a barista is preferred but not required. A positive attitude, willingness to learn, and ability to take initiative. Ability to work quickly and efficiently in a fast-paced, customer-facing environment. Strong communication and teamwork skills. Flexibility to rotate between food and beverage service areas during shifts. Availability to work mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed. Ability to lift 30 lbs, stand for long periods, and handle kitchen equipment safely. Why Join Us? Be part of an exciting new café concept with a focus on high-quality food and drinks. Opportunities for skill development through cross-training in both kitchen and barista roles. Work in a supportive, team-oriented environment. Staff discounts, opportunities for growth, and involvement in a community-focused business.

Job Types:

Full-time, Part-time Pay:

$15.00 – $16.50 per hour Expected hours: 15 – 40 per week

Benefits:

Employee discount Flexible schedule Health insurance Paid time off Paid training

Shift:

4 hour shift 8 hour shift Day shift Evening shift Morning shift

Experience:

Guest services: 1 year (Preferred) Barista experience: 1 year (Preferred) Shift availability: Day Shift (Preferred) Night Shift (Preferred)

Work Location:

In person