Cafe jobs in Darlington

Barista, Hospitality & Housekeeping (Part-Time & Full-Time Opportunities) – Must Drive

Location: Newton Aycliffe (with flexibility to support other locations when required)
Hours: Part-Time (20+ hours per week, including weekends)
Pay: Up to £13.50 per hour (based on age and experience)

About Us

Siesta Coffee is an independent coffee brand committed to quality, consistency, and exceptional service. We’re known for our clean, well-presented stores, professional standards, and a product range that sets us apart — including specialty drinks, fresh desserts, and retail lines.

As we grow, we’re looking for reliable and detail-oriented team members who take pride in their work and thrive in a structured, fast-paced environment.

The Role

This is a hands-on, multi-skilled position within a fast-paced hospitality environment. You will be expected to consistently meet Siesta Coffee’s high operational, cleanliness, and customer service standards. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

Barista & Beverage Preparation

• Prepare and serve a range of hot and cold beverages, including espresso-based drinks, teas, smoothies, and seasonal specials
• Follow all drink recipes and quality control standards to ensure consistency across locations
• Operate grinders, espresso machines, blenders, and other equipment with confidence and care
• Accurately steam milk using thermometers and Siesta Coffee protocols (no scalding, no shortcuts)

Customer Service

• Deliver welcoming, polite, and efficient service across counter and drive-thru formats
• Handle orders and payments accurately using the till system
• Proactively upsell relevant products and educate customers about the menu
• Manage complaints professionally, escalating only when appropriate
• Promote loyalty sign-ups and customer retention offers

Cleanliness, Hygiene & Presentation

• Maintain a spotless café environment at all times, including customer areas, counters, fridges, retail stands, toilets, and kitchen spaces
• Follow structured daily, weekly, and deep clean checklists using our digital systems
• Ensure food hygiene and allergen protocols are followed without exception (e.g. correct day-dotting, allergen matrix access, cleaning schedules)
• Keep all displays well-stocked, symmetrical, and visually appealing throughout the day

Drive-Thru & Collection Point Operations (where applicable)

• Operate confidently in drive-thru settings, communicating clearly and efficiently through headsets
• Maintain rapid turnaround times while ensuring order accuracy and presentation
• Prepare and pack items for takeaway and delivery using correct procedures
• Manage both in-store and remote customer experience with professionalism

Stock, Delivery & Waste Management

• Accept and check deliveries, reporting any discrepancies or damage
• Rotate all stock efficiently (FIFO) and keep displays and storage areas clearly labelled
• Record wastage, backups, and compliance evidence via digital systems
• Monitor low stock levels and inform management proactively

Digital Systems & Compliance Logs

• Use Typeform for all daily and weekly checklists (cleaning, opening, closing, deep cleans, EHO, etc.)
• Refer to Notion for SOPs, recipes, and operational procedures
• Submit absence requests and view rotas via Bright HR
• Log all relevant evidence via photo uploads, temperature readings, and written comments
• Ensure full accountability for all shifts through structured reporting

Team Contribution & Flexibility

• Support colleagues and assist with training new team members as required
• Be open to lone working where necessary, with full shift responsibility
• Support other Siesta Coffee locations if required
• Be flexible with shift patterns, including early mornings, evenings, weekends, and holiday cover

Requirements

• Must have a valid UK driving licence and access to a vehicle
• Must be flexible and available for weekend work
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to cleanliness
• Good timekeeping, communication, and customer service skills
• Ability to follow structured procedures and use digital tools confidently
• Food Safety Level 2 (or willingness to complete this via our e-learning platform)

Desirable (but not essential)

• Previous experience in hospitality, food service, or retail
• Knowledge of allergen protocols, EHO standards, or barista equipment
• Confidence working independently when required

What We Offer

• Staff discount on drinks, food, and retail items
• Company pension (subject to eligibility)
• Free gym membership at Newton Aycliffe & Catterick Garrison sites
• Digital onboarding and structured training
• Opportunities for additional hours and development

To Apply

Submit your CV via Indeed, along with a short covering note explaining your availability and whether you can commute reliably to Newton Aycliffe and other sites if required.

Job Types: Full-time, Part-time, Permanent

Pay: £12.21-£13.50 per hour

Expected hours: 20 per week

Benefits:

• Company pension
• Employee discount
• Free parking
• Gym membership
• On-site gym
• On-site parking
• Private medical insurance
• Store discount

Work Location: In person

Reference ID: Siesta Coffee