Lead Barista
Thursday Boot Company · Washington, DC
Tailor my CV for this job — freeWe are launching a new concept store that combines our retail experience with an in-store Thursday Cafe™. This location represents an evolution of the brand, bringing together product, service, and hospitality in a more immersive environment that celebrates fine craftsmanship in all its forms.Role DescriptionOur Cafe Captain (Lead Barista) plays a key role in bringing our cafe experience to life within the Thursday retail environment. As part of our first in-store coffee concept, you’ll help create a warm, memorable experience that brings together quality coffee, hospitality, and the energy of our retail space.In this role, you are responsible for the day-to-day cafe execution—maintaining flow, consistency, and standards during your shifts while supporting a seamless customer experience across both cafe and retail.You lead by example on the floor, delivering service rooted in hospitality while ensuring beverages are prepared with consistency, care, and attention to detail. You combine strong people skills with a commitment to craft—creating a welcoming environment, building customer connections, and ensuring every drink meets our exacting standards.This is a unique opportunity to help shape how coffee fits into the Thursday retail experience. You will share feedback and observations that help improve the cafe over time while keeping the station clean, organized, and ready for service.What You’ll DoCustomer Experience & ServiceSet the tone for cafe service by delivering efficient, personalized interactions rooted in hospitalityEnsure customers receive a consistent, high-quality experience across both cafe and retailCreate service moments that customers remember and want to shareMaintain strong flow between cafe and retail during peak periodsWork with retail team members to create a smooth handoff between cafe and store experiencesCafe Execution & Floor LeadershipLead the day-to-day cafe operation during your shifts, ensuring strong execution, flow, and consistencyIdentify and address gaps in service, quality, or workflow in real timeEnsure cafe standards are consistently met across beverage quality, cleanliness, and presentationCommunicate performance, issues, and opportunities clearly to store leadershipCoffee Preparation & ServicePrepare espresso-based beverages and other drinks with consistency and extreme attention to detailOperate and maintain coffee equipment, including espresso machines and grindersEnsure beverage quality, presentation, and accuracy meet brand standardsWork efficiently during high-volume periods while maintaining quality and organizationMaintain a clean, organized, and well-stocked coffee station at all timesStore & Cafe OperationsExecute daily cafe operations and support shared store routines as neededKeep cafe presentation standards high, including cleanliness and organizationEnsure the cafe remains clean, stocked, and customer-ready throughout the daySupport cafe ordering and inventory management by helping track product usage, monitoring stock levels, and ensuring key coffee and cafe supplies remain availableOwn cafe scheduling to ensure adequate coverage, effective shift alignment, and peak-period readiness.Food & Beverage Safety & ComplianceUphold all food safety, sanitation, and hygiene standards in accordance with local health regulationsEnsure proper handling, storage, and labeling of all ingredients and productsMaintain a clean and organized café environment across all preparation areas and equipmentComplete required food safety training and certifications as applicableSupport readiness for health inspections by consistently following cleaning, labeling, storage, and safety routinesWhat You Bring3+ years of cafe or coffee experience required, with strong fundamentals in beverage preparation and workflowDemonstrated ability to lead execution and maintain standards in a fast-paced environmentStrong interpersonal and communication skillsAbility to stay organized, focused, and calm under pressureReliability, accountability, and strong work ethicWho You ArePassionate about coffee and committed to high standards in both craft and serviceA strong team player who leads by example and elevates those around youProactive, adaptable, and solutions-orientedThrives in a fast-paced, customer-facing environmentDetail-oriented and committed to maintaining high standardsAvailable to work weekends, evenings, and holidaysWhat You’ll GainHands-on experience in customer service and beverage preparationExposure to retail operations and cafe workflowsDevelopment in coffee craft, service, efficiency, and hospitalityA strong foundation for growth into retail or cafe management rolesWhat We OfferCompetitive compensationPart-time and full-time opportunitiesBenefits for eligible employeesFree product and employee discountsGrowth opportunities within a fast-growing brandWho We AreThursday Boot Company was born out of frustration with the footwear industry—where quality, durability, and honest pricing were often overlooked. Our mission is simple: Build Things That Last.After a decade selling online, we’re expanding our retail footprint nationwide to extend our commitment to high-quality products, ethical sourcing, and exceptional customer experiences. As we continue to expand, we’re looking for driven individuals to grow with us and help shape the future of our retail experience.To learn more, visit: https://thursdayboots.com/pages/our-storyAdditional Requirements:Must be at least 18 years of ageAbility to lift and move at least 50 lbs.Ability to bend, squat, twist, reach and use a step stool and/or ladderAbility to stand and/or walk for 8+ hours per shiftAbility to work on-site 100% of the time