Whimsy & Wonder Play Cafe
Craft Barista
Ankeny, IA
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Part time
You are a master of craft behind the espresso bar and a dependable shift leader during busy rushes, reporting directly to the Cafe Manager. You will craft espresso drinks, prepare quick bites and snacks, guide barista shifts, help onboard new team members, and ensure high standards of beverage quality, cleanliness, and guest hospitality. You will also participate in cross-training to support the play floor when needed.
About Whimsy & Wonder Play Cafe
About Whimsy & Wonder Play Cafe
Whimsy & Wonder Play Cafe is Ankeny's newest family destination, combining custom indoor play areas for kids up to age 10 with a modern, high-quality cafe for parents and caregivers.
Why We're Different:
Elevated Hospitality: We provide a clean, modern, and thoughtfully designed environment where adults can relax while kids engage in imaginative, active play.
Clean-Label & Quality Focus: Our cafe emphasizes premium coffee, craft beverages, and high-quality menu options. We believe the right food can help create better behavioral outcomes!
Community & Connection: We host memorable private birthday parties, special events, and daily open play, operating with high operational standards and a supportive team culture.
Description
Craft Barista
Pay: $16.00 – $19.00+ / hour (based on experience) + pooled tips
Hours: Part-Time (approx. 20–35+ hours/week; 40 hours is not guaranteed)
Schedule & Availability: Weekend availability is required; weekday shifts available as hours expand. Please note: Scheduled hours are variable and will naturally ebb and flow based on customer traffic, seasonal demand, and private event bookings.
Responsibilities
- Calibrate grinders daily, dial in espresso shots, and operate a manual commercial espresso machine.
- Steam milk to high quality standards and prepare espresso drinks, cold brew, and teas.
- Help create seasonal drink specials and recipes.
- Train and mentor team members on espresso techniques and drink standards.
- Capture occasional drink photos and reels for social media.
- Warm and serve café food items using rapid-cook ovens.
- Keep the counter, espresso station, and seating area clean, sanitized, and stocked.
- Assist with guest check-in and team support during busy rushes.
Requirements
- 2+ years of manual specialty/craft barista experience (must know grinder calibration and manual espresso extraction—automated/push-button experience does not qualify).
- Schedule flexibility with variable weekly hours that ebb and flow based on customer demand.
- Must be at least 16 years of age.
- Must pass a comprehensive criminal background check prior to hire.
- Food Handler / ServSafe and CPR/First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain upon hire).
- Ability to stand and move for shifts up to 8 hours.
- Ability to lift up to 40 lbs (milk crates, syrup boxes, ice).
Salary
$16 - $19 per hour