About the Role: Responsibilities, Skills, and Requirements
Introduction
Are you someone who believes coffee is both an art and a science? If the hiss of the steam wand and the swirl of perfectly frothed milk are music to your ears, you might be just who we’re looking for. Join our bustling neighborhood coffee shop in Umm Al Quwain, right in the heart of Al Raqa, as our new Barista. This isn’t just any barista gig — it’s a place where your skills behind the counter don’t go unnoticed, whether you’re pulling flawless shots or adding that satisfying touch of latte art to a flat white.
About the Company
Nestled in the friendly community of Al Raqa, our coffee shop has become a gathering spot for locals and travelers alike. Our vibe is all about genuine connections — both with customers and the small but dedicated team behind the bar. We like to think there’s something special about serving someone their favorite drink just the way they love it (maybe it’s the secret ingredient: actual care). Friday mornings are lively, and don’t be surprised if you find regulars chatting with you about their latest adventures or asking for your recommendation from the dessert case.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Creating quality hot and cold beverages from classic espresso drinks to refreshing iced specialties
- Pouring latte art that makes customers reach for their phones before their cups
- Preparing desserts with attention to detail and presentation — you’ll get creative with plating, not just coffee
- Keeping the bar area spotless, stocked, and ready for the next rush
- Offering genuine hospitality — remembering little details about regulars is something our team values
- Working closely with a small crew, helping train newcomers and supporting each other during busy spells
What You’ll Bring
Must-Haves:
- Solid barista experience, especially with both hot and cold drinks
- Proven skill in latte art — we’re talking basic hearts and leaves at a minimum
- Hands-on experience preparing desserts or pastries
- A positive attitude and team-first approach
- Comfortable in a fast-paced, customer-facing environment
Nice-to-Haves:
- Familiarity with different coffee beans and brewing methods
- Some spoken Arabic or English for smooth customer interaction
- Creativity with seasonal drink ideas or dessert specials
Not sure you tick every box? We’d still love to hear from you.
Why You’ll Love Working Here
- Free accommodation so you don’t have to worry about rent
- Meals and drinks included during your shifts — yes, your coffee habit is covered
- Health insurance for your peace of mind
- Tight-knit team where everyone knows your name and your favorite coffee
- A real chance to showcase your craft and grow your skills — maybe teach the team your signature pour?
We’re more than just a place to clock in and out: we’re a welcoming spot for anyone who loves great coffee, friendly faces, and a supportive team you can rely on.
Common Interview Questions and Tips
To help you prepare and feel confident, here are some questions you might encounter during the interview process for this role.
- Can you walk us through your process for pulling an espresso shot, and how you ensure consistency with each cup?
- Tell us about your experience with different kinds of milk texture and the type of latte art you’re most confident making.
- How do you balance maintaining high-quality presentation with speed during a busy morning rush?
- Describe a time you experimented with a new coffee brewing method or invented a seasonal specialty. What inspired you, and how did customers react?
- What’s your approach to preparing and plating desserts so they’re both delicious and visually appealing?
- How do you keep the bar area clean, organized, and stocked, especially when it gets hectic?
- Share an example of when you had to train a team member or help out a colleague who was new behind the bar. How did you support them?
- Have you ever made a regular customer’s day through a small gesture or by remembering their favorite drink? What happened?
- Working in a small, close-knit team can be both fun and challenging. How do you handle disagreements or stress during busy periods?
- In our shop, genuine hospitality is key. How do you ensure every customer — whether a first-timer or a regular — feels welcome and valued?
- If you noticed a teammate struggling during a Friday rush, how would you step in to help without disrupting the workflow?
- Can you describe a moment when your positive attitude helped turn a challenging shift around for yourself or your team?
- How do you keep learning and perfecting your skills as a barista, whether it’s a new latte art technique or a dessert plating trick?