A barista is a food service worker who specializes in making and serving various types of coffee and espresso drinks. This professional uses a number of different ingredients, pieces of equipment, and techniques to create delicious cups of coffee. Many coffee shops will hire new workers with little or no formal barista training, though employers usually prefer individuals who have a passion for coffee and basic knowledge of different types of popular drinks. A new employee generally receives up to two weeks of barista training on the job, learning specifics about machinery, coffee varieties, cash handling, and customer service. Individuals who wish to gain additional knowledge and improve their chances of landing a job can enroll in professional barista training programs, which can take anywhere from a few hours to several weeks to complete.
A person who wants to become a barista can conduct independent research about the job. The Internet contains thousands of web pages that define terms and describe techniques. Many online resources show diagrams of coffeemakers, espresso machines, and other types of equipment. Websites often feature instructional videos that show prospective baristas how to operate machinery. Individuals can study the formulas for the most common beverages served at coffee shops, including hot and iced coffees, cappuccinos, and lattes.
An individual who wants to gain practical experience before applying for jobs can make basic coffee drinks at home. Many retail stores and supermarkets sell small, home versions of popular coffee shop machines, including French presses, espresso makers, blenders, and drip coffeemakers. Employers highly value applicants who can demonstrate the skills they learned through independent barista training.
There are many accredited barista training schools and correspondence programs available that can help people gain solid credentials and prepare for virtually any barista job. Programs can vary widely in length and specific subject matter, though most can be completed in less than six weeks. Some schools offer information on how an individual can obtain the funds and equipment necessary to open his or her own coffee shop.
Once a person acquires a barista job, he or she usually receives hands-on training from experienced professionals. A coffee shop might feature large, complex espresso machines, brewers, and grinders that must be operated in a certain way. A new barista must learn proper operating procedures as well as the different drinks offered at the shop. He or she may also receive training on how to take orders from customers, operate a cash register, and clean the facility at the end of the day.