Barista - job 1 of 2

A Barista at SpaceX is responsible for maintaining a clean and safe workstation, completing daily prep tasks, providing excellent customer service, and managing inventory/order supplies. You’ll also ensure the proper use of coffee and beverage equipment, including espresso machines and coffee brewers. This role actively contributes to the workplace atmosphere, maintaining high standards for product quality and team collaboration.

To be considered for the Barista position at SpaceX, candidates must have a high school diploma or equivalent along with at least 2 years of customer service experience in a food service environment focused on coffee and beverages. Preferred qualifications include 3+ years in a similar role, a WA food handler card, and familiarity with food safety practices, particularly within corporate settings.

Working as a Barista at SpaceX isn’t just about making coffee; it’s about contributing to a larger mission of enabling humanity’s journey into space. Your role goes beyond typical coffee shop duties as you engage with the innovative environment of SpaceX and support the morale and productivity of a team that is actively working on revolutionary technologies like Starlink. The company culture here places an emphasis on teamwork and high standards, making it a unique place for baristas.

Yes, SpaceX is committed to your professional development as a Barista. You’ll receive on-the-job training that includes proper food safety, equipment usage, and customer service techniques. As part of our team-focused environment, you will also have opportunities to learn from experienced colleagues and supervisors to enhance your skills in the coffee service industry.

As a Barista at SpaceX, you can enjoy a competitive salary starting at $22.50/hour, health and dental benefits, a 401(k) retirement plan, paid vacation and holidays, and long-term incentives such as stock options. You'll also be part of a company culture that encourages work-life balance and provides employee discounts and perks, making it a great place to work.

When discussing your experience, focus on your customer service skills, specific tasks you handled like operating espresso machines, and how you managed busy shifts. Highlight any special techniques or recipes you mastered, and how you ensured a pleasant experience for customers.

Explain your strategies for staying organized during peak hours, such as making lists, remaining flexible, and communicating effectively with your team. Emphasize your ability to maintain high standards of quality while managing time efficiently.

Discuss your philosophy on customer service, focusing on being attentive, friendly, and ensuring that every customer feels valued. Mention how you build rapport with customers and handle any complaints or issues that might arise.

Highlight your knowledge of health regulations, your routine for cleaning equipment and workstations, and your commitment to maintaining a safe environment for both the customers and coworkers. Providing specific examples can also enhance your response.

Share a story about a time when you collaborated with teammates to achieve a common goal, particularly in a food service setting. Focus on communication, cooperation, and any challenges faced that you successfully overcame as a team.

Mention specific machines and tools you have experience with, such as espresso makers, grinders, or brewing systems. If you can, elaborate on how you’ve utilized these tools to create high-quality beverages.

Express your commitment to customer satisfaction by explaining how you would listen to their concerns, offer a solution—such as remaking the drink or providing a refund—and ensure that they leave with a positive impression of the café.

Talk about finding enjoyment in perfecting your craft, the satisfaction of serving customers, or setting personal goals during shifts. Highlight that staying focused on the collective mission of the company also keeps you engaged.

Discuss your methods for keeping track of orders, prioritizing based on complexity or customer wait times, and ensure that you maintain a steady pace without compromising quality.

Share your enthusiasm for being part of a visionary company like SpaceX. Talk about your admiration for their mission and innovation, and how serving coffee within such an inspiring environment aligns with your personal and professional goals.