Lead Barista
5+ years
New York City Metropolitan Area
Full-time
Onsite
1 month ago
About the role
POSITION: Lead Barista
Company: Born in Los Angeles, Cult Gaia is known for beautiful heirloom pieces that will live in your closet forever. The cornerstone of Cult Gaia's DNA is creating objects d'art that makes you look twice. Since its inception, CG has grown from accessories into a lifestyle brand, selling everything from ready-to-wear to shoes, a world of Gaia.
Position Summary: Cult Gaia is seeking a Lead Barista to oversee the daily operations of our in-store café. This role will be responsible for delivering a refined and memorable guest experience while managing a small team of baristas. The ideal candidate brings strong coffee expertise, a passion for hospitality, and a polished, brand-aligned presence. This individual will play a key role in shaping the café as an extension of the Cult Gaia experience.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
Café Operations
Team Leadership
Guest Experience
Inventory & Operations Management
Brand & Aesthetic Execution
REQUIREMENTS:
WHAT WE OFFER:
Company: Born in Los Angeles, Cult Gaia is known for beautiful heirloom pieces that will live in your closet forever. The cornerstone of Cult Gaia's DNA is creating objects d'art that makes you look twice. Since its inception, CG has grown from accessories into a lifestyle brand, selling everything from ready-to-wear to shoes, a world of Gaia.
Position Summary: Cult Gaia is seeking a Lead Barista to oversee the daily operations of our in-store café. This role will be responsible for delivering a refined and memorable guest experience while managing a small team of baristas. The ideal candidate brings strong coffee expertise, a passion for hospitality, and a polished, brand-aligned presence. This individual will play a key role in shaping the café as an extension of the Cult Gaia experience.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
Café Operations
- Oversee day-to-day café operations, ensuring consistency in quality, service, and presentation
- Prepare and serve coffee, espresso-based beverages, and light offerings to brand standards
- Maintain cleanliness, organization, and visual presentation of the café space
- Manage opening and closing procedures
Team Leadership
- Supervise, train, and support a team of 2-3 baristas
- Create schedules and ensure proper staffing coverage
- Foster a positive, collaborative team environment
- Maintain high service standards and provide ongoing coaching
Guest Experience
- Deliver an elevated, hospitality-driven experience aligned with the Cult Gaia brand
- Engage with clients in a warm, professional, and brand-appropriate manner
- Ensure seamless integration between the café and retail environment
Inventory & Operations Management
- Monitor inventory levels and assist with ordering supplies as needed
- Track usage, minimize waste, and maintain cost awareness
- Partner with store leadership on operational needs and improvements
Brand & Aesthetic Execution
- Uphold the visual and experiential standards of the Cult Gaia brand
- Ensure all beverages and presentations reflect attention to detail and quality
- Contribute ideas to enhance the café experience and overall store environment
REQUIREMENTS:
- 2–4+ years of experience in specialty coffee or café operations
- Prior leadership or supervisory experience preferred
- Strong knowledge of espresso preparation, milk steaming, and café workflows
- Passion for hospitality and delivering exceptional guest experiences
- Polished, professional demeanor with strong communication skills
- Ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment
- Strong attention to detail and organizational skills
WHAT WE OFFER:
- Medical, Dental, Vision & Dependent Coverage
- 401K with company match
- Life Insurance
- Pet Insurance
- PTO
- Paid Sick Leave
- Clothing Allowance
- Referral Program
Skills
Customer ServiceRetail Apparel and Fashion