Barista/Customer Service

Barista - Opener Shift / 5:30AM-11:30AM

The Mercantile @themercantileauburn

* UNDER CONSTRUCTION*

17720 Ravenna Rd, Chagrin Falls, Ohio 

Position Overview

The Barista/Customer Service at The Mercantile plays a key role in delivering a welcoming, café experience centered around exceptional coffee, hospitality, and beautifully prepared offerings. This position is responsible for crafting high-quality espresso beverages, maintaining an inviting café environment, and supporting daily café operations.

The ideal candidate has 2+ years of barista experience, thrives in a fast-paced hospitality setting, and takes pride in thoughtful presentation and guest service. This role requires attention to detail, consistency in beverage preparation, and a passion for creating memorable guest experiences.

Key Responsibilities

Coffee & Beverage Preparation

• Prepare espresso beverages, brewed coffee, tea, and specialty drinks with consistency and care
• Calibrate grinders and dial in espresso to maintain quality standards
• Steam milk properly for texture and latte art when appropriate
• Maintain knowledge of seasonal drinks and menu offerings
• Ensure beverages are served promptly and presented beautifully

Guest Experience & Hospitality

• Greet guests warmly and provide a welcoming café experience
• Take orders accurately and offer thoughtful recommendations
• Maintain a clean, inviting café and barista station
• Resolve guest concerns with professionalism and care
• Answer guest questions regarding retail and garden products
• Contribute to the relaxed, elevated atmosphere of The Mercantile

Café Operations

• Open the café according to procedures
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of espresso machines, grinders, and equipment
• Monitor coffee, milk, and supply inventory and communicate restocking needs
• Support food service by assisting with pastries or prepared items when needed
• Follow food safety and sanitation guidelines
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Team Collaboration

• Work collaboratively with café staff, kitchen team, and store leadership
• Assist with training new baristas when appropriate
• Contribute to maintaining a positive and supportive team culture
• Support special events or farmers market evenings as needed

Qualifications

• 2+ years barista experience in a café or specialty coffee environment
• Strong knowledge of espresso preparation and milk steaming techniques
• Excellent customer service and communication skills
• Ability to multitask in a fast-paced setting while maintaining quality
• Interest in coffee, food, hospitality, and community gathering spaces
• Ability to work mornings, weekends, and occasional events

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand for extended periods
• Ability to lift up to 30 lbs
• Comfortable working in a busy café environment

Compensation & Benefits

• Tips
• Employee discounts
• Opportunity to grow within The Mercantile team

About The Mercantile

• The Mercantile is a garden café and gathering space featuring specialty coffee, artisanal baked goods, seasonal prepared foods, flowers, and community events. We aim to create a place where guests can slow down, gather, and enjoy thoughtfully crafted food and drink.