Cafe Rio Mexican Grill is serving up fresh opportunities! We are looking for high energy assistant managers. Do you have a passion for cooking up great food? Do you want to be apart of a team that ...
Quick apply
Cafe Rio Mexican Grill is serving up fresh opportunities! We are looking for high energy assistant managers. Do you have a passion for cooking up great food? Do you want to be apart of a team that ...
Assistant Manager
Falls Church, VA · On-site
Cafe Rio Mexican Grill is serving up fresh opportunities!We are looking for high energy assistant managers. Do you have a passion for cooking up great food? Do you want to be apart of a team that ...
Assistant Manager
Falls Church, VA · On-site
Cafe Rio Mexican Grill is serving up fresh opportunities!We are looking for high energy assistant managers. Do you have a passion for cooking up great food? Do you want to be apart of a team that ...
Assistant Manager
Herndon, VA · On-site
Cafe Rio Mexican Grill is serving up fresh opportunities!We are looking for high energy assistant managers. Do you have a passion for cooking up great food? Do you want to be apart of a team that ...
Assistant Manager
Herndon, VA · On-site
Cafe Rio Mexican Grill is serving up fresh opportunities!We are looking for high energy assistant managers. Do you have a passion for cooking up great food? Do you want to be apart of a team that ...
Cafe Rio Mexican Grill is serving up fresh opportunities! We are looking for high energy assistant managers. Do you have a passion for cooking up great food? Do you want to be apart of a team that ...
Cafe Rio Mexican Grill is serving up fresh opportunities! We are looking for high energy assistant managers. Do you have a passion for cooking up great food? Do you want to be apart of a team that ...
Cafe Rio Mexican Grill is serving up fresh opportunities! We are looking for high energy assistant managers. Do you have a passion for cooking up great food? Do you want to be apart of a team that ...
Quick apply
Cafe Rio Mexican Grill is serving up fresh opportunities! We are looking for high energy assistant managers. Do you have a passion for cooking up great food? Do you want to be apart of a team that ...
Assistant Manager
Hampton, VA · On-site
Looking for a leader to become the foundation of our Tropical Smoothie Cafe family in Hampton with ... The Assistant Manager is responsible for leading the FOH and BOH operations of the Cafe • The ...
Assistant Manager
Hampton, VA · On-site
Looking for a leader to become the foundation of our Tropical Smoothie Cafe family in Hampton with ... The Assistant Manager is responsible for leading the FOH and BOH operations of the Cafe • The ...
Assistant Manager
Herndon, VA · On-site
Cafe Rio Mexican Grill is serving up fresh opportunities!We are looking for high energy assistant managers. Do you have a passion for cooking up great food? Do you want to be apart of a team that ...
Assistant Manager
Herndon, VA · On-site
Cafe Rio Mexican Grill is serving up fresh opportunities!We are looking for high energy assistant managers. Do you have a passion for cooking up great food? Do you want to be apart of a team that ...
Assistant Manager
Falls Church, VA · On-site
Cafe Rio Mexican Grill is serving up fresh opportunities!We are looking for high energy assistant managers. Do you have a passion for cooking up great food? Do you want to be apart of a team that ...
Assistant Manager
Falls Church, VA · On-site
Cafe Rio Mexican Grill is serving up fresh opportunities!We are looking for high energy assistant managers. Do you have a passion for cooking up great food? Do you want to be apart of a team that ...
Cafe Ambassador - Carytown
$14.75 - $19/hr
Cafe Ambassador - Carytown The Role Do you find your purpose in empowering others? As a Cafe ... assist other locations in the broader Region. * Available to work a flexible schedule, including ...
Cafe Ambassador - Carytown
$14.75 - $19/hr
Cafe Ambassador - Carytown The Role Do you find your purpose in empowering others? As a Cafe ... assist other locations in the broader Region. * Available to work a flexible schedule, including ...
Crew Lead
Trevilians, VA · On-site
You are the foundation of this Café and our number one asset! The Book of Lola is a guide to assist you throughout the training process and also act as a reference for daily operations. Throughout ...
Crew Lead
Trevilians, VA · On-site
You are the foundation of this Café and our number one asset! The Book of Lola is a guide to assist you throughout the training process and also act as a reference for daily operations. Throughout ...
Recruiting Team: Assist in identifying, recruiting, and developing talent for both cafe positions and future Student COO succession planning. Who You Will Supervise This position will supervise an ...
Recruiting Team: Assist in identifying, recruiting, and developing talent for both cafe positions and future Student COO succession planning. Who You Will Supervise This position will supervise an ...
Recruiting Team: Assist in identifying, recruiting, and developing talent for both cafe positions and future Student COO succession planning. Who You Will Supervise This position will supervise an ...
Recruiting Team: Assist in identifying, recruiting, and developing talent for both cafe positions and future Student COO succession planning. Who You Will Supervise This position will supervise an ...
Café Ambassador - Carytown
Richmond, VA · On-site
$14.75 - $19/hr
Café Ambassador - Carytown The Role Do you find your purpose in empowering others? As a Café ... assist other locations in the broader Region. * Available to work a flexible schedule, including ...
Café Ambassador - Carytown
Richmond, VA · On-site
$14.75 - $19/hr
Café Ambassador - Carytown The Role Do you find your purpose in empowering others? As a Café ... assist other locations in the broader Region. * Available to work a flexible schedule, including ...
Line Cook - Cafe, Sandwich & Coffee Shop
Virginia Beach, VA · On-site
$15 - $18/hr
Flexibility to assist with dishes, prep, or expo depending on the cafe's daily needs. * Physical Requirements: Ability to stand for long shifts (8+ hours) and lift/carry up to 50 pounds. Benefits ...
Line Cook - Cafe, Sandwich & Coffee Shop
Virginia Beach, VA · On-site
$15 - $18/hr
Flexibility to assist with dishes, prep, or expo depending on the cafe's daily needs. * Physical Requirements: Ability to stand for long shifts (8+ hours) and lift/carry up to 50 pounds. Benefits ...
Barista & Smoothie Specialist (Cafe / Grab & Go)
Charlottesville, VA · On-site
$16.50/hr
Restock products, merchandise, and supplies throughout the shift * Assist with opening and closing ... Previous barista, cafe, or food & beverage experience preferred * Positive attitude with a strong ...
Barista & Smoothie Specialist (Cafe / Grab & Go)
Charlottesville, VA · On-site
$16.50/hr
Restock products, merchandise, and supplies throughout the shift * Assist with opening and closing ... Previous barista, cafe, or food & beverage experience preferred * Positive attitude with a strong ...
Barista & Smoothie Specialist (Café / Grab & Go)
Charlottesville, VA · On-site
$16.50/hr
Restock products, merchandise, and supplies throughout the shift * Assist with opening and closing ... What We're Looking For * Previous barista, café, or food & beverage experience preferred
Quick apply
Barista & Smoothie Specialist (Café / Grab & Go)
Charlottesville, VA · On-site
$16.50/hr
Restock products, merchandise, and supplies throughout the shift * Assist with opening and closing ... What We're Looking For * Previous barista, café, or food & beverage experience preferred
Barista & Smoothie Specialist (Café / Grab & Go)
Charlottesville, VA · On-site
$16.50/hr
Restock products, merchandise, and supplies throughout the shift * Assist with opening and closing ... Previous barista, café, or food & beverage experience preferred * Positive attitude with a strong ...
Barista & Smoothie Specialist (Café / Grab & Go)
Charlottesville, VA · On-site
$16.50/hr
Restock products, merchandise, and supplies throughout the shift * Assist with opening and closing ... Previous barista, café, or food & beverage experience preferred * Positive attitude with a strong ...
Restaurant Team Member
$12.25 - $16.25/hr
Cafe Rio is looking to hire energetic Team Members to join our #caferiofamily. We have various level positions available: line cook, prep cook, dishwasher, cashier, and Assistant Management positions ...
Quick apply
Restaurant Team Member
$12.25 - $16.25/hr
Cafe Rio is looking to hire energetic Team Members to join our #caferiofamily. We have various level positions available: line cook, prep cook, dishwasher, cashier, and Assistant Management positions ...
Restaurant Team Member
$12.77/hr
Cafe Rio is looking to hire energetic Team Members to join our #caferiofamily. We have various level positions available: line cook, prep cook, dishwasher, cashier, and Assistant Management positions ...
Restaurant Team Member
$12.77/hr
Cafe Rio is looking to hire energetic Team Members to join our #caferiofamily. We have various level positions available: line cook, prep cook, dishwasher, cashier, and Assistant Management positions ...
Delivery Driver
Falls Church, VA · On-site
$17.75 - $22.50/hr
Cafe Rio is looking to hire energetic Team Members to join our #caferiofamily. We have various level positions available: line cook, prep cook, dishwasher, cashier, and Assistant Management positions ...
Delivery Driver
Falls Church, VA · On-site
$17.75 - $22.50/hr
Cafe Rio is looking to hire energetic Team Members to join our #caferiofamily. We have various level positions available: line cook, prep cook, dishwasher, cashier, and Assistant Management positions ...
Cafe Assistant information
See Virginia salary details
$10.49 - $11.16
2% of jobs
$11.16 - $11.83
2% of jobs
$11.83 - $12.50
3% of jobs
$12.50 - $13.17
11% of jobs
$13.63 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$13.17 - $13.84
11% of jobs
$13.84 - $14.52
5% of jobs
$14.52 - $15.19
6% of jobs
The median wage is $15.68 / hr.
$15.19 - $15.86
14% of jobs
$15.86 - $16.53
14% of jobs
$16.80 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$16.53 - $17.20
19% of jobs
$17.20 - $17.87
14% of jobs
$10
$15
$17
How much do cafe assistant jobs pay per hour?
As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for cafe assistant in Virginia is $15.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.37 and $16.68 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What is the difference between Cafe Assistant vs Barista?
| Aspect | Cafe Assistant | Barista |
|---|---|---|
| Credentials | None required, some experience helpful | Food safety certification often preferred |
| Work Environment | General cafe duties, customer service | Preparing coffee, espresso, and beverages |
| Employer & Industry Usage | Common in cafes, restaurants, catering | Primarily in coffee shops and specialty cafes |
| Search & Comparison Intent | Looking for general cafe support roles | Interested in coffee preparation skills |
While both roles work in cafes, a Cafe Assistant provides general support including customer service and cleaning, whereas a Barista specializes in coffee and beverage preparation. The roles often overlap, but Baristas typically require specific coffee-making skills and certifications. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find the right position based on their skills and interests.
What are some common challenges faced by cafe assistants and how can they be managed effectively?
Cafe Assistants often encounter challenges such as handling busy rush hours, maintaining excellent customer service under pressure, and balancing multiple tasks like operating the register, preparing drinks, and restocking supplies. Effective time management, strong communication skills, and teamwork are crucial in overcoming these challenges. Many cafes provide training and encourage a supportive environment, where staff members help each other during peak periods, making it easier to manage high workloads and provide a positive customer experience.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a cafe assistant, and why are they important?
To thrive as a Cafe Assistant, you generally need experience in food preparation, basic food hygiene knowledge, and strong customer service skills, often supported by a food safety certificate. Familiarity with point-of-sale (POS) systems, coffee machines, and inventory management tools is typically required. Excellent communication, teamwork, and the ability to remain calm under pressure help you stand out in this role. These skills are crucial for delivering efficient service, maintaining food safety standards, and ensuring a positive customer experience in a busy cafe environment.
What does a cafe assistant do?
A cafe assistant supports the daily operations of a cafe or coffee shop. As a cafe assistant, your job duties may include taking food and beverage orders, stocking pastry displays and other inventory, and cleaning the facility. You may also make simple drinks and be trained to use an espresso machine. Although there are minimal qualifications to become a cafe assistant, you need strong customer service, communication, and multi-tasking skills, as well as attention to detail. Employers typically provide on-the-job training in this entry-level role, which can help you gain valuable career experience in the service industry.
How to get a cafe assistant job with no experience?
To get a cafe assistant job with no experience, focus on demonstrating good communication skills, a positive attitude, and a willingness to learn. Highlight any customer service or teamwork experience on your resume, and consider volunteering or taking short courses in hospitality to build relevant skills. Employers often value reliability and enthusiasm, even without prior work history.
What does a cafe assistant do?
A Cafe Assistant is responsible for supporting the daily operations of a cafe, which includes tasks such as serving customers, preparing and serving food and drinks, handling payments, and maintaining cleanliness in the dining and kitchen areas. They often assist with restocking supplies, setting up tables, and ensuring that customers have a pleasant dining experience. Good communication and customer service skills are essential for this role, as Cafe Assistants frequently interact with customers and work as part of a team.
More about Cafe Assistant jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Cafe jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Cafe jobs in Virginia are:
What job categories do people searching Cafe Assistant jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Cafe Assistant jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Cafe Assistant jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Cafe Assistant job openings:
Cafe Rio rating
5.3
Based on 61 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
49th of 106 rated fast food restaurants
Job description
Start your path to Cafe Rio Stardom today!
Cafe Rio Mexican Grill is serving up fresh opportunities! We are looking for high energy assistant managers. Do you have a passion for cooking up great food? Do you want to be apart of a team that's creating opportunities and changing the lives of everyone we serve?
Then come join our team and see what it's like to run a real fresh, made from scratch, restaurant concept. Show us your culinary chops and restaurant management skills, and we'll show you a career paved in tomatillo gold! Your very tasty journey is waiting amigo, come grow with us.. .we dare you!
Wondering what’s in it for you? How about:
- 8 weeks of initial hands on training to set you up for a successful career at Cafe Rio
- Learning how to run a multimillion-dollar restaurant
- Competitive pay
- Monthly bonuses
- Paid time off
- Free meals
- Health care and retirement benefits
This is an opportunity you don’t want to pass up!
Cooking from scratch is both an art and a science, and at Cafe Rio, we take it to the next level. We instill our passion and promise in everything we do, you’ll learn from our food masters at the restaurant. You’ll learn the ins and outs of running a restaurant, you’ll become a food fanatic, taking pride in the layering of flavors to create the ultimate masterpiece for our customers. We’ll teach you how to lead, develop and mentor those around you.
This is just the tip of the tortilla chip! This isn’t just a job amigo, this is a career.
If you love the fast pace, adrenaline rush of a high energy environment, and the desire to move your career forward, then come see what we have to offer. Visit us at www.caferio.com/careers
Requirements
- At least 18 years of age
- Proof of valid driver’s license
- Able to lift and carry at least 50 lbs. and stand for 8 plus hrs.
- 2 or more years of management experience, preferably in the restaurant industry managing a team of 15 or more employees at a time, interacting frequently with customers, and coaching employees to assume increasingly challenging roles
- Available to work flexible hours including early mornings, evenings, weekends and/or holidays, as well as work weeks that may at times exceed 40 hours
- Demonstrates strong interpersonal communication skills; able to easily interact with diverse employees, bilingual (English/Spanish) a plus
About Cafe Rio
Sourced by ZipRecruiter
The year was 1997. The place, a little town in southern Utah called St. George. A lovely couple named Steve and Patricia Stanley started a restaurant called Cafe Rio Mexican Grill. Cafe Rio served authentic dishes derived from inspired recipes and traditional cooking of Northern Mexico’s Rio Grande region, Southern Texas, and New Mexico. Central to every bite was the belief that every ingredient must be fresh and made fresh to order. And you know what? People loved it. They couldn’t get enough of it. So much so, that one restaurant became six. In 2004, these six little restaurants caught the attention of a fine gentleman named Bob Nilsen. He purchased Cafe Rio from the Stanleys with the idea of spreading the love of making this fresh Mexican food to everyone in and around Utah and beyond. We’re realizing the dream of spreading the love of Cafe Rio Mexican Grill around Utah and beyond. Check out our locations page to find a Cafe Rio near you.
Industry
Traveler accommodation
Company size
1,001 - 5,000 Employees
Headquarters location
Salt Lake City, UT, US
Year founded
1997