Part-time Barista

Job Opportunity: Part time Tech-Focused Barista – Co. Café (2 positions)

Location: Co. Innovation Centre (COIC) – St. John's, NL

Applications will be accepted until end of business day, January 30th.

About Co. Innovation Centre

Co. Innovation Centre is Newfoundland and Labrador's cross-sector hub for industry-led innovation- accelerating commercialization, digital transformation, and economic resilience across key sectors such as energy, mining, aerospace & defence, advanced manufacturing, and oceans.

As a neutral space for convergence, collaboration, and co-creation, COIC empowers businesses to tackle real-world challenges, develop dual-use technologies, and scale solutions for remote and harsh environments. Through curated programming, pilot R&D infrastructure, and development of global partnerships, we help position local companies for global leadership in remote operations and cutting-edge technologies.

Our work is guided by two strategic goals: strengthening Newfoundland and Labrador's innovation ecosystem and establishing the province as a global destination for high-performance, future-ready industries.

About Co. Cafe

Co. Café, now operated by Co. Innovation Centre, is a vibrant public space where great coffee meets regional innovation. The café spotlights Newfoundland and Labrador's local food and beverage makers through rotating features and live product testing- serving as a "living lab" for culinary innovation. It's a welcoming hub for meetings, tastings, and creative connection in the heart of the province's innovation ecosystem.

About the Role

We're hiring two tech-savvy, independent Baristas who are excited to serve great coffee and food items, while contributing to product trials and collaborative innovation. Our café serves as a community gathering space and living lab, where experimentation meets hospitality.

Key Responsibilities

Hospitality & Customer Service

• Prepare and serve a variety of specialty coffee and tea beverages with precision and care
• Serve food and advise of offerings available based on product detail and product provider
• Engage with customers, offering exceptional service and personalized recommendations
• Maintain the café's social media channels
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of the café, ensuring compliance with health and safety standards
• Operate and maintain café equipment, including espresso machines and grinders
• Manage inventory, restocking supplies as needed
• Assist in organizing and executing café events or promotions tailored to the tech community
• Participate in training sessions to stay up to date on trends and best practices
• Collaborate with team members to ensure a smooth and efficient work environment
• Operate a digital POS and automated brewing system
• Use cloud-based inventory software to track usage and support restocking
• Record and analyze data from product testing and flavour trials
• Support the development of data systems that help partners forecast ingredient and supply needs
• Share feedback and trial results using tools such as Microsoft Teams
• Work with internal and external stakeholders on new coffee flavour development and food item selections

Training & Support

Training will be provided in:

• Café operations and beverage preparation
• POS and inventory software
• Health, safety, and food handling standards
• COIC's Work Alone Protocol and communication procedures
• Data tracking, sensory evaluation, and digital reporting

Requirements:

• Previous barista or food/beverage experience is an asset
• Strong knowledge of coffee brewing methods and equipment
• Tech-savvy or comfortable using digital ordering and inventory systems
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to multitask and work efficiently under pressure
• Comfortable working independently in a structured environment
• Flexible availability including mornings, evenings, and weekends
• Understanding of health and safety regulations in food service

Eligibility Requirements:

• Canadian citizen or permanent resident
• Be 19+ years of age

Café Hours:

• Monday–Friday: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM

(Barista scheduling will be set weekly, based on staff availability and business requirements)

What You'll Gain:

• Real-world café and innovation lab experience
• Exposure to tech tools, flavour development, and product testing
• A strong resume addition
• Networking Opportunities with our membership and café patrons

Job Type: Part-time

Benefits:

• On-site parking

Experience:

• Barista: 1 year (preferred)

Location:

• St. John's, NL A1A 5G9 (required)

Work Location: In person