Barista

Baristas prepare coffee and other beverages along with baked goods for customers. They are also responsible for taking orders and processing payments, which requires proficiency with Point-of-Sale systems and cash handling.

Barista Job Description

Establish relationships with and serve customers.

Facilitate effective communication and engagement at the workplace.

Follow safety and hygiene procedures.

Prepare and serve hot and cold beverages.

Provide speciality coffee service.

Supervise quality procedures.

Monitor and manage inventory of coffee supplies, baked goods and other consumables, including ordering and restocking items as needed to ensure smooth operation.

Customise drinks according to customer preferences and dietary needs.

Ensure the coffee service area is clean, hygienic and well-organised at all times, including cleaning tables, counters and the coffee-making equipment.

Note

Baristas are attentive to detail and they are meticulous in crafting their drinks. For example, milk has to be steamed to the right temperature to be used for latte art.

What you should know about Barista jobs in Singapore

Nature of Work

You must be able to explain the differences in the tastes of regional coffee beans if a customer asks.

Key advice

You’ll also provide expert customer service by educating customers and making recommendations based on their preferences.

Entry Requirements

Entry Requirements
Minimally GCE 'N' Level qualification.

You can take a look at Bettr Barista Coffee Academy, School of Coffee and CMCR Barista Academy SG, just to name a few, to build your fundamentals!

You must have great precision in measuring ingredients and following different recipes.

Experience in customer service roles, even outside the coffee industry, can be beneficial.

Being enthusiastic about learning and sharing coffee knowledge can enhance your ability to engage with customers and improve their experience.
Possible Pathway

Possible Pathway

Skills you need to pursue a Barista career in Singapore

Hard Skills

Knowledge of Coffee and Roasts

Understanding different coffee beans and roasting levels to create a variety of beverages.

Food Safety

Familiarity with hygiene standards and practices to ensure safe consumption.

Latte Art

Skill in creating visual designs in the foam of a latte or similar coffee drinks.

Soft Skills

Efficiency

Ability to work swiftly and accurately, even under pressure.

Flexibility

Willingness to adapt to changing tasks and schedules.

Attention to Detail

Precision in measuring, brewing and serving to ensure high-quality beverages.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Do Baristas need special training?

Yes, they do. To qualify as Baristas in Singapore, they must be registered with the Singapore Food Agency (SFA) as they will handle food and beverage items.

Baristas can also pick up professional coffee-making skills through school programmes and Barista certification courses online, or they can work part-time at companies such as Starbucks and The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf!
How much does it cost to undergo Barista training?

Barista training workshops in Singapore range from about $200 to $400 per pax. There are different Barista schools in Singapore to choose from so Baristas need to pick one that is most suited to their goals and what they hope to learn!
Do Baristas only work with coffee?

No, Baristas do not only work with coffee. While coffee is a significant part of their job, they may also prepare and serve other beverages, such as tea.
Do Baristas need any degrees or certifications?

Baristas do not need a degree or certification. However, some employers may prefer or require candidates to have completed a Barista training programme or have prior experience in the field.
What is the difference in the coffee when a different variant of coffee bean is used?

When a different variant of coffee bean is used, there can be several differences in the resulting flavour of coffee. These differences can occur in terms of taste, aroma, acidity and body.