What Are the Career Opportunities as a Barista?

Great coffee is everywhere, and so is the demand for people who can make it well. Barista skills are a fast, practical way into hospitality - and they can lead a lot further than the espresso machine.

Where barista skills can take you

• Café barista - the classic role, from busy city cafés to suburban coffee shops
• Hospitality all-rounder - combining coffee with food service, often alongside an RSA
• Mobile coffee van or pop-up operator - running your own small business
• Function and event staff - catering, conferences and venues
• Café supervisor or manager - leading a team once you have experience

Why employers value trained baristas

Consistency sells coffee. An employer wants someone who can dial in a grind, steam milk properly, keep the machine clean and serve quickly during a rush. Training shows you can do all of that from day one rather than learning on the job at the customer’s expense.

Pairing coffee with an RSA

Many hospitality venues serve both coffee and alcohol, so a barista who also holds a Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA) certificate is far more employable. EDB Training Services offers RSA, RSG and barista training together so you can walk into a venue ready for any shift.