Barista
On this page
- What's it like to be a Barista?
- How to become a Barista
- Latest Barista jobs
- Top skills and experience for Baristas
- Is Barista the right role for you?
- Barista role reviews
What's it like to be a Barista?
A Barista’s (Tuari Mahi Kawhe) main job is to use a coffee machine to make coffees such as espressos and lattes. Baristas take orders from customers and answer their questions about menu items. Working as a Barista is typically a sociable role that involves interactions with customers. Baristas have a good knowledge of different styles and flavours of coffee. They may be required to have latte art skills.
Tasks and duties
- Understanding coffee and coffee making techniques.
- Making coffee and other coffee-based drinks.
- Keeping equipment and working spaces clean.
- Educating staff on coffee and training them how to use the equipment.
How to become a Barista
You don’t always need a qualification to become a Barista. In some cases on-the-job training is provided, especially by cafe and restaurants chains. Or, you can sign up for a short course at a polytechnic or private training provider.
Complete an NZQA-certified Barista training course.
Study a Food Safety and Hygiene Certificate.
Secure an entry-level role in a cafe or restaurant to develop your Barista skills.
Successful Baristas often enter Barista Companionships to show off their skills and make themselves more marketable.
After many years of experience working as a Barista you could consider starting your own cafe or mobile espresso service.
