Barista - Memphis

SpaceXAI’s mission is to create AI systems that can accurately understand the universe and aid humanity in its pursuit of knowledge. Our team is small, highly motivated, and focused on engineering excellence. This organization is for individuals who appreciate challenging themselves and thrive on curiosity. We operate with a flat organizational structure. All employees are expected to be hands-on and to contribute directly to the company’s mission. Leadership is given to those who show initiative and consistently deliver excellence. Work ethic and strong prioritization skills are important. All employees are expected to have strong communication skills. They should be able to concisely and accurately share knowledge with their teammates. ABOUT THE ROLE: The SpaceXAI Hospitality team serves employees, customers, government partners, potential clients, and visitors with snacks, daily meals, and full-service events. The Barista is a team-oriented role for individuals passionate about coffee, espresso, and tea preparation and service. Ideally, this individual has several years of barista experience, hands-on knowledge of espresso drinks, coffee flavor profiles, and coffee bar operations; knowledge of food operations and culinary arts is preferred. Candidates must understand basic customer service and food/beverage safety principles. The role involves using equipment like manual espresso machines, drip brewers, grinders, and serving utensils. Daily tasks include handling customer orders/inquiries, maintaining food service spaces, and setting up/working stations at various outlets per leadership specifications. This position supports SpaceXAI's mission by providing excellent customer service, quality beverage options, a welcoming atmosphere, and accurate order fulfillment to boost morale and productivity. RESPONSIBILITIES: Set up, maintain, and clean workstations, surrounding areas, dining, work, and storage spaces to ensure safety and organization Perform cleaning and maintenance on departmental tools, equipment, and drip coffee stations Complete daily record keeping, tasks, and opening/closing checklists Meet time and quality standards set by leadership while working with urgency Engage customers, fulfill orders, and demonstrate strong customer service and communication skills (including menu changes) Assist with catering and event requests Adhere to proper safety guidelines and food safety/sanitation practices Interact professionally with guests, supervisors, and co-workers Prepare a variety of coffee, espresso, tea beverages, and food products Operate espresso machines with high proficiency BASIC QUALIFICATIONS: High school diploma or equivalency certificate 1+ years of barista experience or 2+ years in customer service in a food service environment that includes coffee and/or beverage services Ability to carry large, heavy items unassisted (up to 25lbs) Must have the ability to stand for long periods – up to 8-12 hours a day. Able to perform frequent bending, stooping, and lifting of objects through entire shift Must be able to work all shifts and available for overtime, weekends and holiday(s) as needed Adaptability, problem-solving skills, and extreme attention to detail Team player with the ability to collaborate effectively, including but not limited to training of incoming team members Ability to work gracefully under pressure Must have or obtain the state Food Handlers card (training provided internally as needed) PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE: 3+ years of barista experience Self-motivated and takes initiative in a dynamic, fast-paced environment Previous work experience in a high-volume output environment Previous work experience in team settings Effective interpersonal, oral and written communication skills Effective time management skills Effective understanding of food safety and sanitation practices Basic computer skills (Microsoft Office primarily) Knowledge of barista equipment, tools and supplies ITAR REQUIREMENTS: To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about the ITAR here. SpaceXAI is an equal opportunity employer. For details on data processing, view our Recruitment Privacy Notice.