We are Looking For a Lead Barista / Coffee Program Manager

Cornflower Baked Goods is the newest concept from the Rye KC team, led by acclaimed pastry chef Megan Garrelts and chef Colby Garrelts. The Leawood bakery builds on the baked goods Rye guests already know and love, while creating a dedicated neighborhood space for fresh pastries, pies, cakes, coffee, and thoughtful grab-and-go offerings.

Scope & General Purpose: The Lead Barista / Coffee Program Manager plays a key role in shaping and maintaining the coffee and beverage experience at Cornflower. This position is responsible for leading the daily execution of the coffee program, maintaining beverage quality and consistency, training baristas, supporting inventory and ordering, and ensuring guests receive warm, knowledgeable, and efficient service. This is a hands-on leadership role suited for someone who is passionate about coffee, hospitality, team development, and creating a polished and welcoming café experience.

Schedule: Full-Time, including mornings, evenings, weekends and holidays

Management Structure: Reports to Bakery Manager

Core Responsibilities:

Provide warm, friendly, and knowledgeable service to all guests
Lead by example in creating a welcoming, hospitality-driven café environment
Prepare and serve espresso drinks, drip coffee, teas, and other beverages with consistency and care
Maintain high standards for beverage quality, presentation, speed, and accuracy
Guide guests through coffee, bakery, pastry, and retail offerings
Answer questions and provide thoughtful recommendations
Restock beverage supplies, retail items, pastries, paper goods, and bakery supplies throughout the shift
Support opening and closing responsibilities as assigned
Operate POS and handle transactions accurately and efficiently as needed
Support smooth and organized guest flow during busy periods
Follow all food safety, sanitation, and health department standards
Keep workstations, equipment, and service areas clean and organized throughout the shift

Coffee Program Leadership

Manage the daily execution of the coffee and beverage program
Maintain consistency in recipes, drink builds, standards, and presentation
Monitor espresso quality, grind settings, extraction, milk texture, and beverage preparation throughout the day
Partner with leadership on seasonal beverage offerings, menu updates, and program improvements
Maintain coffee equipment, including espresso machine, grinders, brewers, and related tools
Communicate maintenance needs, equipment issues, or product concerns promptly
Ensure all coffee and beverage products are stored, labeled, rotated, and handled properly
Monitor inventory levels for coffee, milk, syrups, teas, paper goods, and beverage-related supplies
Assist with ordering, receiving, and organizing beverage inventory
Minimize waste through thoughtful ordering, prep, and daily execution

Training, Team Development & Culture

Train baristas and cashier/barista team members on coffee standards, recipes, equipment use, and guest service expectations
Provide ongoing coaching and support to ensure consistency across the team
Help maintain written beverage standards, recipes, and training materials as needed
Contribute to a positive, collaborative, and hospitality-focused team culture
Work collaboratively with front and back of house teams to support daily operations
Step in to assist teammates and support service needs when necessary
Maintain a calm, professional, and thoughtful approach during busy service periods
Serve as a resource for the team on coffee knowledge, beverage standards, and service expectations

Requirements:

Previous barista experience required
Previous lead barista, café supervisor, or coffee program experience preferred
Strong knowledge of espresso preparation, milk steaming, drip coffee, and café beverage standards
Guest-focused mindset with strong communication and interpersonal skills
Comfortable training, coaching, and supporting team members
Highly organized with the ability to manage inventory, supplies, and daily priorities
Comfortable multitasking and working efficiently in a fast-paced environment
Positive, upbeat, and dependable attitude
Physically able to stand for long periods and lift up to 50 lbs

The above job description is not intended to be all-inclusive may be amended at any time by management. The Lead Barista may be required to perform other related duties as assigned to meet the ongoing needs of the business.

Pay: $20.00 - $30.00 per hour

Benefits:

401(k)
Employee discount
Health insurance

Work Location: In person

Cornflower Baked Goods

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Lead Barista