Job Title: Barista
Company: Zaya Cafe
Location: Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Job Type: Full-Time
Industry: Hospitality, Food and Beverage, Cafe
About Zaya Cafe
Zaya Cafe has built a loyal following in Dubai’s competitive cafe scene by combining quality coffee, thoughtfully prepared food, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere that keeps guests coming back. The brand has positioned itself as a neighborhood favorite, known for consistency, friendly service, and a genuine sense of community around every table. As Zaya Cafe continues to grow its presence in the city, the team remains focused on maintaining the same personal touch and attention to detail that shaped its reputation from day one. Every staff member is seen as part of the guest experience, not just someone behind the counter.
About the Role
Zaya Cafe is looking for a skilled and personable Barista to join its front-of-house team. This role is about more than making coffee — it is about creating a small moment of enjoyment for every guest who walks through the door. The ideal candidate combines strong technical coffee-making skills with genuine warmth, attentiveness, and the ability to keep a busy counter running smoothly during peak hours. Whether it is a regular ordering their usual or a first-time visitor exploring the menu, the Barista plays a key role in shaping how guests remember Zaya Cafe.
This is a great opportunity for someone who takes pride in their craft, enjoys the fast pace of cafe service, and wants to grow within a brand that values its people as much as its product.
Key Responsibilities
- Prepare and serve a wide range of coffee and beverage items to a consistently high standard, including espresso-based drinks and specialty menu items
- Operate, clean, and maintain espresso machines, grinders, and related barista equipment throughout the day
- Greet every guest warmly, take orders accurately, and offer suggestions based on their preferences
- Maintain a clean, organized, and fully stocked barista station in line with hygiene and safety standards
- Handle cash and card payments accurately through the point-of-sale system
- Monitor and manage stock levels of coffee beans, milk, syrups, and other consumables, flagging reorder needs to the supervisor
- Follow proper food and beverage safety protocols, including correct storage and handling of perishable items
- Build genuine rapport with regular guests, remembering their preferences to create a more personal experience
- Support the wider team during busy periods, including light food preparation or plating where required
- Maintain composure and efficiency during high-volume rush periods without compromising drink quality
- Participate in ongoing training to refine techniques and stay updated on new menu items or seasonal offerings
- Uphold Zaya Cafe’s brand standards in appearance, hygiene, and guest interaction
- Assist with opening and closing duties, including equipment cleaning and station setup or breakdown
- Communicate clearly with kitchen and floor staff to ensure smooth, coordinated service
Requirements
- Previous experience as a Barista, ideally within a cafe, coffee shop, or hospitality setting, is preferred
- Solid understanding of coffee preparation techniques, including espresso extraction, milk texturing, and latte art is an advantage
- Friendly, approachable personality with strong guest-facing communication skills
- Ability to stay calm and efficient in a fast-paced, high-volume environment
- Basic knowledge of food and beverage hygiene and safety standards
- Flexibility to work varying shifts, including early mornings, evenings, weekends, and public holidays
- Good command of English; additional languages are a plus given Dubai’s diverse customer base
- Neat, professional appearance in line with cafe grooming standards
- Reliable, punctual, and able to work well as part of a small, close-knit team
- Willingness to learn new recipes, techniques, and seasonal menu updates
- UAE hospitality experience is an advantage but not mandatory for the right candidate with a strong attitude
What Zaya Cafe Offers
- Competitive tax-free salary
- A friendly, supportive team environment with a strong sense of community
- On-the-job training to build and refine barista skills
- Opportunities for growth as Zaya Cafe continues to expand its presence
- Employee meals and beverages during shifts
- A positive, guest-focused workplace culture that values consistency and care
- Exposure to a loyal, regular customer base that rewards genuine service
Who Should Apply
This role is ideal for someone who enjoys the rhythm of cafe service and takes real pride in crafting a good cup of coffee. If you are personable, dependable, and enjoy being part of a team that treats regulars like family while still delivering fast, high-quality service during busy periods, Zaya Cafe would love to hear from you. This position suits both experienced baristas looking for a welcoming new home and motivated individuals ready to build strong coffee skills from the ground up.
How to Apply
Interested candidates are encouraged to apply with an updated CV highlighting any relevant barista or food and beverage experience. Please include details of previous coffee-related roles, any relevant training, and your current visa or work authorization status in the UAE. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview and a practical coffee-preparation trial as part of the selection process.
