Join Our Team!

NOW HIRING: BARISTAS

The Barista at UQBAR Cafe is the face of our coffee and beverage program, responsible for crafting high-quality coffee and tea beverages with precision and artistry. This role is perfect for someone who loves connecting with people, has a genuine passion for coffee/beverage service, and thrives in a bustling, dynamic environment. Our baristas are instrumental in creating a welcoming, efficient, and memorable experience for every guest, showcasing UQBAR’s friendly spirit and commitment to quality. 

Compensation and Benefits: $19-21/hour base wage, plus $3-5/hour in tips for an estimated total of $22-26/hour. Health insurance for full-time staff. Paid sick and vacation days. Shift meal and employee discounts.

Schedule: UQBAR is opening in late September 2025, and we are hiring for both full-time (5 shifts per week) and part-time positions. UQBAR will be open for daytime hours Tuesday through Saturday from 8am-2pm, and we plan to expand to all-day service, 8am-8pm. Friday and Saturday availability is a must! 

Key Responsibilities:

• Greet and assist our guests with enthusiasm and high energy

• Prepare and serve a wide range of coffee, espresso, tea, and specialty beverages according to UQBAR's recipes and quality standards.

• Meticulously operate and maintain espresso machine, grinders, and other front-of-house equipment to ensure optimal performance

• Taste and score coffee at least once per shift, logging the results. Adjust coffee as needed for the best tasting espresso.

• Provide excellent customer service, greeting guests warmly, taking orders accurately, and answering questions about our menu.

• Handle cash and card transactions using the point of sale system efficiently.

• Maintain cleanliness and organization of the service bar, display cases, and seating areas.

• Assist with stocking and merchandising pastries, retail coffee beans, and other grab-and-go items.

• Welcome customer feedback and resolve issues professionally and promptly with a positive attitude. 

• Communicate effectively with other front-of-house team members and kitchen staff to ensure smooth service and a positive guest experience.

• Contribute to a positive and collaborative team environment.

Qualifications:

• Exceptional customer service and communication skills.

• Proven knowledge of coffee beans, roasting, and various brewing methods (espresso, drip, etc.).

• Knowledge of food safety and sanitation practices (Food Handler's Certification required upon hire).

• Commitment to serve alcoholic beverages responsibly and in compliance with all relevant laws (Responsible Beverage Service Certification required upon hire).

• Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment and manage multiple tasks.

• Strong attention to detail and commitment to cleanliness and quality.

• Proficiency in basic math.

• A friendly personality and a genuine enthusiasm for coffee, food, and community.

• Ability to stand for extended periods, bend, lift, and carry up to 30 lbs.

• At least 1 year of experience as a barista in a professional cafe setting is a plus, but not required. We value a positive attitude and a willingness to learn above all!

What You’ll Gain Working at UQBAR:

• A competitive compensation package designed to attract and retain top talent, with opportunities for growth, cross-training, and professional development.

• Affordable health insurance for all eligible staff. Paid sick leave and vacation days.

• A supportive and collaborative work environment committed to transparency and Open Book Management (OBM). Through OBM, you’ll gain an understanding of restaurant finances, see how your work directly impacts our success, and have the opportunity to earn financial bonuses.

• Employee perks, including shift meals, employee discounts, and UQBAR merch.

• A chance to be part of a values-driven business focused on health, sustainability, and community, Join UQBAR and help us make a positive difference in the lives of our customers, neighbors, and staff through wholesome food and warm hospitality.

UQBAR is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.

What is UQBAR? 

UQBAR (pronounced “ook-bar”) is a brand new Mediterranean cafe in Berkeley, CA that invites patrons in for a welcoming atmosphere and a fresh, Mediterranean menu emphasizing local, seasonal ingredients. Inspired by Turkish, Greek, and other cuisines, UQBAR presents Mediterranean food through the lens of California’s agricultural abundance and multicultural history.

Founded by husband-wife team Benji and Jennie Smith, UQBAR combines Benji’s decade of restaurant experience as a cook and chef with Jennie’s expertise in front-of-house operations and entrepreneurship. A deep-rooted connection to Berkeley (as Jennie’s hometown) strengthens UQBAR’s commitment to creating a welcoming space that reflects both our passion for good food and a sense of home. This is an exciting opportunity to join an opening team, where every member will be instrumental in shaping UQBAR’s atmosphere, culture, and success from day one! 

APPLY VIA THE FORM BELOW. We look forward to meeting you!