Job Description

Job Purpose

The Barista is responsible for preparing and serving a wide variety of hot and cold beverages, including specialty coffee and tea, in line with company standards. The role ensures excellent customer service, consistent product quality, and compliance with hygiene, safety, and HACCP requirements while maintaining a clean and welcoming environment.

Principal Accountabilities

Beverage Preparation & Service Prepare and serve a variety of coffee-based beverages, teas, and other drinks according to standard recipes and lounge presentation guidelines. Ensure all beverages are consistently prepared to high quality standards, including temperature, taste, and presentation. Verify the availability of coffee beans, milk, syrups, and other beverage ingredients before each shift; report shortages as per procedure. Operate coffee machines and related equipment safely and efficiently, performing daily start-up and shut-down procedures. Provide guests with friendly, professional, and efficient service, maintaining a premium guest experience. Stock & Equipment Control Receive and check beverage stock deliveries against requisitions; report any discrepancies. Monitor and record storage area and refrigerator temperatures in compliance with HACCP requirements. Assist with monthly stock counts and daily inventory checks for the barista station. Always maintain cleanliness and hygiene of the coffee station and equipment. SHEQ & Compliance Follow all company policies and procedures relating to Security, SHEQ, HACCP, and lounge operational standards. Adhere to safe food and beverage handling practices. To comply with any other reasonable request relating to the work place Adhere to all aspects of Security, SHEQ, HACCP and operational policies and procedures Conducts work in a customer orientated manner to ensure adherence to service level agreements

Qualifications & Experience

Grade 12 (NQF level 4) / equivalent Certificate in Professional Cookery an advantage 2-3 years' experience as a Barista in a hospitality, airline lounge, or high-end cafe environment. Fine Dinning experience and international exposure will be an advantageous Internal HACCP training or equivalent food safety certification. Proficiency in operating commercial coffee machines and equipment.

Knowledge and Skills

Good Communication skills Strong knowledge of coffee brewing techniques, milk frothing, and latte art. Excellent interpretation of catering industry and customer service. Ability to work independently Ability to work in a high-volume, fast-paced environment Ability to follow instructions and work under supervision

Attributes

Positive attitude, adaptability and willingness to learn

Attention to detail

Team player

Punctual and reliable

Willingness to work in different departments and assist in different workstations

Flexibility and adaptability

Ability to work shifts, weekends and public holidays

Additional Information

Air Chefs SOC Ltd is a premium food solutions company with over 40 years of experience. A wholly owned subsidiary of South African Airways, we are uniquely positioned to deliver exceptional food and hospitality services across air, corporate, and event sectors. With three strategically located operational units in Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban, we have the capacity to produce over 50000 meals daily, serving domestic and international airlines, airport lounges, events, and corporate canteens.