Lead Barista | Side Characters Coffee

Lead Barista

Side Characters Coffee | San Francisco

Side Characters is an independent specialty coffee concept in San Francisco, built around exceptional drinks, thoughtful design and a carefully curated atmosphere. We are creating one of the city’s most distinctive café experiences and looking for an experienced Lead Barista who wants to help us take it further.

You will work on a two group Slayer LP and take an active role in shaping drink quality, bar standards, workflow and team culture. This position is for someone who is deeply serious about coffee, naturally hospitable and confident leading a busy bar.

Compensation

$24 to $27 per hour, depending on experience, plus tips. Total earnings typically come to approximately $30 per hour.

What we are looking for

• At least three years of specialty coffee experience
• Lead barista or supervisory experience
• Excellent espresso dialing, milk texture and latte art skills
• Strong speed and organization during high volume service
• Ability to train others and maintain consistent standards
• Reliability, maturity and clear communication
• Genuine passion for coffee and hospitality
• Weekend availability

Your role

• Lead the bar during busy service
• Maintain exceptional espresso and drink quality
• Dial in coffee and monitor recipes throughout the day
• Train and support the barista team
• Improve workflow, cleanliness and consistency
• Assist with inventory and daily operations
• Work directly with the owners as Side Characters grows

We are looking for someone who sees coffee as a craft and hospitality as a profession. Someone who notices details, holds high standards and wants meaningful influence within an ambitious independent café.

To apply, please send your résumé, a brief cover letter explaining why you are interested in Side Characters and two professional references.

Pay: $28.11 - $33.85 per hour

Work Location: In person