MASTERING TASTEFUL ART OF CREATING THE PERFECT CUPPA
EDUCATION
Baristas specialise in making coffee, as well as tea and a range of other beverages. Baristas may take customers’ orders, prepare and serve drinks and provide information to customers about the content or preparation of their order. Many barista courses are available through coffee roasting outlets and cafes or through registered training organisations. Much of the work is learned via experience and from colleagues, however.
MORE TRAINING
Baristas work mostly in cafes and coffee shops, but may also work in restaurants, bars or other food service establishments. Aspiring baristas may want to complete a traineeship in hospitality which usually takes 24 months. After initial training is undertaken and experience gained, baristas often travel to different cities and countries to learn about different brewing or roasting techniques.
PAY SCALE
Hourly hospitality base rates for adult casuals are usually $15-20 per hour. Baristas normally get paid extra for working overtime or late nights and extra on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays.
WHO TO CONTACT
Start by asking to talk to the owner of your local quality coffee shop. They will have information on local training organisations and what the job market is like. Contact TAFE too for more information.