The Salty Donut
Lead Barista
Washington, District of Columbia•Full-time
$20 - $25 hourly
$20 - $25 hourly
About the Job
Lead Barista – The Salty Donut
Craft Coffee • Elevated Hospitality • Culture‑Driven Leadership
About Us
The Salty Donut is a chef‑driven, artisan donut and coffee shop known for small‑batch creativity, seasonal flavors, and a commitment to exceptional quality. Everything is made in‑house with no artificial ingredients — and every guest interaction is designed to feel warm, memorable, and human. Our team creates an environment where guests feel welcomed, appreciated, and excited to return.
About the Role
We’re looking for a Lead Barista who brings both craft and leadership to the bar. This role is perfect for someone who loves coffee, thrives in fast‑paced environments, and takes pride in setting the tone for service, quality, and teamwork. You’ll be a daily leader on the floor — supporting bar operations, coaching team members, and ensuring every beverage and guest interaction meets The Salty standard.
Key Responsibilities:
- Deliver warm, genuine, high‑quality guest service throughout every interaction.
- Lead by example on bar: pace, quality, cleanliness, communication, and hospitality.
- Prepare all coffee and tea beverages to The Salty’s exacting standards.
- Support training and development of new and existing baristas.
- Guide guests through the menu and help them discover items they’ll love.
- Maintain an organized, efficient, and welcoming bar environment.
- Oversee bar readiness: restocking, dialing in espresso, equipment checks, and cleanliness.
- Operate the POS system accurately and complete opening/closing checklists.
- Pack donut orders neatly and efficiently while maintaining product quality.
- Follow all food safety, quality, and FIFO procedures.
- Assist with inventory tasks and putting away deliveries.
- Support overall store cleanliness, including lobby, patio, and guest areas.
- Collaborate with FOH, BOH, and leadership to ensure smooth, efficient operations.
Qualifications:
- Prior barista experience required; leadership or shift‑lead experience strongly preferred.
- Strong communication skills and a positive, team‑oriented attitude.
- Ability to coach peers and model high standards consistently.
- Comfort working in a fast‑paced, dynamic environment.
- Attention to detail and pride in maintaining a clean, organized workspace.
- Passion for coffee, food, and creating memorable guest experiences.
- Ability to stand for extended periods and lift 30–50 lbs.
What We Offer:
- Full‑time and part‑time opportunities.
- Weekly pay.
- Starting at $20 per hour + tips (averaging approximately $6–10 per shift hour).
- Schedule flexibility.
- 6 weeks paid parental leave.
- Health, dental, and vision benefits (full‑time).
- Matching HSA and 401(k).
- Company‑paid life insurance.
- Team Member Assistance Programs.
- Pet insurance.
- 40% discount on donuts, coffee, merchandise, and catering.
- Friends & family discount.
- Anniversary program.
- PTO.
- Clear opportunities for growth and advancement.
Who Thrives Here:
- Leaders who love people and hospitality.
- Team players with a positive, can‑do attitude.
- Quick learners who adapt easily.
- Detail‑oriented individuals who take pride in their craft.
- Those who enjoy creating meaningful guest connections.
Join Our Team
If you’re an energetic, guest‑focused leader who’s excited to grow with a fast‑expanding brand, we’d love to meet you. Help us create exceptional experiences — one donut and one cup of coffee at a time.
Apply today.
An Equal Opportunity Employer
The Company is an equal opportunity employer and administers all personnel practices without regard to race, color, religious creed, sex, gender, age, ancestry, national origin, mental or physical disability or medical condition, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, military or veteran status, genetic information, or any other category protected under federal, state, or local law.
The Company is a drug‑free workplace and participates in E‑Verify. All offers of employment are contingent upon the completion and passing of the compliance process.
The Company is a drug‑free workplace and participates in E‑Verify. All offers of employment are contingent upon the completion and passing of the compliance process.
About The Salty Donut
The Salty Donut is a modern, craft‑donut and coffee shop known for creative flavors, small‑batch baking, and unforgettable vibes. What started in a tiny vintage camper has grown into a nationally loved brand with lines out the door and a loyal community behind us. We’re passionate about quality, hospitality, and creating spaces people genuinely love. If you’re energetic, team‑oriented, and excited to grow with a fast‑moving, fun, and flavor‑obsessed company, you’ll fit right in at The Salty