Barista, Cook, Baker Position at Local Vegan Cafe (Northridge)

About This Job

Back-of-House Cook with Barista Cross-Training

Company: Leo’s Superfood Vegan Café (A Clean Kitchen Environment: free of meat, dairy, and wheat)

Location: 8262 Louise, Northridge, CA

Schedule: Part-time or Full-time positions available; must have open availability for evenings, weekends, and variable shifts

Reports to: Store Manager / Owner

Compensation: Hourly wage based on experience, plus tips received in cash and credit card form

Role Overview

Our rapidly expanding vegan café seeks a dependable, professional, and positive individual who is passionate about quality food and service. This team member will primarily manage back-of-house operations while also receiving training for barista duties. The ideal candidate is an adaptable and resourceful individual who thrives in a busy environment and is dedicated to maintaining a pristine and efficient kitchen.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

Back-of-House Operations

• Prepare all menu items according to established specifications, ensuring consistency in portioning and presentation.
• Perform daily preparation tasks including washing, chopping, marinating, mixing, batching, labeling, and storing ingredients, adhering to FIFO and proper dating procedures.
• Safely operate all kitchen equipment such as ovens, fryers, griddles, and mixers; record opening and closing temperatures as required.
• Uphold a clean, allergen-conscious vegan workspace, strictly preventing cross-contact with meat, dairy, or wheat products.
• Comply with all health code standards regarding glove use, handwashing, sanitation, and proper food temperature holding.
• Execute opening and closing checklists, which include deep cleaning the kitchen, washing dishes, and managing trash and floors.
• Assist with inventory management, including receiving stock, rotation, and reporting low inventory levels.
• Support the front-of-house team during peak periods by expediting orders or running food as needed.

Baker Role: This position includes early morning shifts starting at 7am. The baker works independently to produce our full range of vegan pastries, cakes, cookies, and pies. Required skills include preparing icing for cakes and cupcakes; prior baking experience is essential.

Secondary Duties and Responsibilities

Barista and Point-of-Sale Operations

• Prepare espresso beverages to recipe, steam non-dairy milks, and brew drip coffee and other cold drinks.
• Make smoothies and iced beverages; maintain a clean and fully stocked service bar.
• Operate the POS system accurately, provide correct change, and reconcile the cash drawer at shift end.
• Deliver efficient and friendly customer service, clearly call out orders, and manage the beverage queue.

Performance Standards

• Meeting target ticket times during busy periods, as set by management.
• Avoiding critical health code violations and completing all required logs and checklists daily.
• Minimizing food waste and consistently following recipes to ensure quality.

Required Qualifications

• One to two years of recent back-of-house experience in a restaurant setting, involving prep, cooking, or line work.
• At least six months of barista experience, including foundational knowledge of espresso preparation and milk steaming.
• Proven punctuality and reliability with a record of consistent attendance.
• Availability to work any required shift, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Resourceful problem-solving ability paired with a positive attitude and strong interpersonal skills.
• Residency in the San Fernando Valley or Northridge area is highly preferred.
• Ability to lift up to 40 pounds, stand for 6-8 hours, and work efficiently in a warm, fast-paced kitchen.
• Possession of a current California Food Handler Card, or ability to obtain one within 10 days of hiring.
• Proficiency in cash handling and basic arithmetic, including accurately totaling orders and counting back change.

Preferred Qualifications

• Background as an experienced restaurant worker, college student, or someone with comparable scheduling discipline.
• Skills in basic latte art, grinder calibration, or high-speed smoothie preparation.

Cultural Fit

We are looking for a professional who demonstrates integrity, sound judgment, and a collaborative, low-ego approach. The successful candidate will be intelligent, practical, and thorough, with a willingness to receive coaching and follow established procedures. A team-oriented mindset, flexibility under pressure, and a constructive attitude are essential.

Employee Benefits

This role includes tips, complimentary shift meals, flexible scheduling options, and opportunities for training and career development.

Application Instructions

Please submit your resume in person to our location: 8262 Louise, Northridge, CA 91325.

You may also contact the store by phone at +1(818)938-9246 and ask for manager Aud.

Leo’s Superfood Vegan Café provides equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants.