Full-Time Barista

TAO is Recruiting – Full-Time Barista (Specialty Coffee)

TAO is looking for an experienced and enthusiastic full-time barista to join our team at our East Croydon location.

This is an ideal opportunity for someone passionate about specialty coffee, customer service, and working in a fast-paced café environment. The role will be approximately 4–5 days per week, including weekends on a rota basis.

Please specify in your application if you are based locally, as candidates must live near East Croydon.

What We Offer

• Competitive pay starting from £13.00 per hour

• Full-time hours, approximately 35–40 hours per week

• 4–5 days per week, including weekend shifts on a rota

• Flexible scheduling within our operating hours

• A supportive, hands-on team environment

• Employee discount and discounted or free food

• Genuine opportunities for growth within our café

About TAO

At TAO, we are passionate about crafting exceptional specialty coffee, serving freshly baked cakes, pastries, and savoury items, and delivering a warm, efficient customer experience.

Our café is takeaway-focused and located in a busy area, so expect fast-paced, rewarding shifts. Our mission is to bring high-quality coffee to Croydon while consistently delivering excellent customer service.

We are looking for someone who takes pride in their work, enjoys being part of a team, and has a positive, professional attitude.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare and serve high-quality specialty coffee, including espresso-based drinks and pour-over

• Dial in and maintain espresso equipment to ensure consistent coffee quality

• Deliver friendly, efficient, and professional customer service

• Maintain a clean, organised, and well-presented workspace

• Assist with opening and closing duties

• Restock coffee, milk, food, and other café supplies

• Follow food safety, hygiene, and café procedures

• Work effectively as part of a busy team during peak periods

• Help maintain the high standards and atmosphere of TAO

Requirements

• Proven experience as a barista, ideally within specialty coffee

• Minimum 2 year of barista experience required

• Strong coffee knowledge and attention to quality

• Good understanding of espresso preparation and milk steaming

• Positive attitude, reliability, and strong work ethic

• Excellent communication and teamwork skills

• Strong customer service skills

• Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment

• Availability to work 4–5 days per week, including weekends on a rota

• Flexibility with working hours

• Must live near East Croydon

Job Types

Full-time

Approximately 35–40 hours per week

Benefits

• Discounted or free food

• Employee discount

• Opportunities for career progression

• Supportive team environment

• Training and development

Experience

• Barista: 2 year (required)

• Specialty coffee: required

• Hospitality: 2 year (preferred)

• Customer service: 1 year (preferred)

Work Location: In person – East Croydon