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Cafe Assistant Jobs in Oak Ridge, TN (NOW HIRING)

K Brew

Delivery Driver and Bakery Assistant

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$18/hr

... cafe locations. Before delivery, you will assist the bakery team with basic cooking and cleaning tasks, as well as closing the Bakery after prep is finished. This position is also responsible for ...

Life Time

LTH Lead

Midtown, TN · On-site

Work closely with the cafe leader to ensure optimal inventory levels of nutrition supplements, especially before promotions or special events. * Assist in planning and executing promotional campaigns ...

Core Spaces

Coffee Team Lead

Knoxville, TN · On-site

Help ensure smooth, efficient daily café operations by anticipating needs and solving challenges ... Maintain high standards for beverage quality, service, cleanliness, and hospitality * Assist with ...

Capstone Concepts

Restaurant Manager

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

We are looking for General Managers, Assistant General Managers, and Café Managers for all locations. Details regarding training will be discussed in interview. CURRENT LOCATIONS: Knoxville ...

Capstone Concepts

Restaurant Manager

Knoxville, TN · On-site

We are looking for General Managers, Assistant General Managers, and Café Managers for all locations. Details regarding training will be discussed in interview. CURRENT LOCATIONS: Knoxville ...

Capstone Concepts

Restaurant Manager

Maryville, TN · On-site

We are looking for General Managers, Assistant General Managers, and Café Managers for all locations. Details regarding training will be discussed in interview. CURRENT LOCATIONS: Knoxville ...

Capstone Concepts

Restaurant Manager

Knoxville, TN · On-site

We are looking for General Managers, Assistant General Managers, and Café Managers for all locations. Details regarding training will be discussed in interview. CURRENT LOCATIONS: Knoxville ...

Capstone Concepts

Restaurant Manager

Knoxville, TN · On-site

We are looking for General Managers, Assistant General Managers, and Café Managers for all locations. Details regarding training will be discussed in interview. CURRENT LOCATIONS: Knoxville ...

Capstone Concepts

Restaurant Manager

Knoxville, TN · On-site

We are looking for General Managers, Assistant General Managers, and Café Managers for all locations. Details regarding training will be discussed in interview. CURRENT LOCATIONS: Knoxville ...

Regal Cinemas, Inc

Full-Time Kitchen Team Member

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$12.25 - $15.75/hr

... café operations with consistency and attention to quality. * You will deliver friendly, professional service to employees, guests, and event attendees. * You will assist with catering, happy hours ...

Capstone Concepts

General Manager

Knoxville, TN · On-site

We are looking for General Managers, Assistant General Managers, and Café Managers for all locations. Details regarding training will be discussed in interview. CURRENT LOCATIONS: Knoxville ...

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Cafe Assistant information

See Oak Ridge, TN salary details

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How much do cafe assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for cafe assistant in Oak Ridge, TN is $14.69, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.88 and $16.11 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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.

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 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 is the difference between Cafe Assistant vs Barista?

AspectCafe AssistantBarista
CredentialsNone required, some experience helpfulFood safety certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentGeneral cafe duties, customer servicePreparing coffee, espresso, and beverages
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in cafes, restaurants, cateringPrimarily in coffee shops and specialty cafes
Search & Comparison IntentLooking for general cafe support rolesInterested 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.

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 training courses to build relevant skills. Employers often value reliability and enthusiasm, especially for entry-level positions.
More about Cafe Assistant jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Cafe jobs in Oak Ridge, TN?

The most popular types of Cafe jobs in Oak Ridge, TN are:

What cities near Oak Ridge, TN are hiring for Cafe Assistant jobs?

Cities near Oak Ridge, TN with the most Cafe Assistant job openings:

Cafe Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cafe Assistant job openings in Oak Ridge, TN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $30,565 per year, or $14.7 per hour.

Barista and Cafe Associate

Knoxville, TN

BENEFIT YOUR LIFE BAKERY & CAFE
See more jobs at BENEFIT YOUR LIFE BAKERY & CAFEexternal

$12 - $14/hr

Part-time

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Overview

We are seeking a Barista/Up Front Associate to join our team at the bakery. They must have a passion for pastries/coffee and creating exceptional and allergy safe customer experiences in a fast-paced environment.

Benefit Your Life Bakery is an exclusively gluten-free and peanut free bakery and cafe. Our kitchen is soy and corn free and we also cater to other major allergens and dietary restrictions, including but not limited to dairy-free, egg-free, vegan, paleo and keto.

We are looking to add another great person to our team. Applicants must be reliable and work well under pressure. The bakery is fast paced and you must be able to multitask while adjusting to the immediate task at hand. We take our jobs seriously as we deal with life threatening allergies, but our work environment is friendly and we have fun and grow relationships with coworkers as we work. As a small business, we get to know our customers very well and have frequent regulars that we build friendships with.

The position is perfect for a people person who is eager to learn more about the gluten-free lifestyle or someone who already partakes in it!

Shifts are Mondays through Saturdays and we are closed Sundays. Most shifts are approximately 7am-2pm (opening shift) or 9am-4pm (closing).

This position requires:

  • Availability during one or both of the shifts listed above
  • Making various espresso drinks and handling the espresso equipment
  • Understanding of Gluten Free products or eagerness to learn
  • Direct contact with customers to answer questions
  • Understanding customer food allergies
  • Ringing up customers on POS
  • Ability to multitask, daily tasks include assisting customers, making smoothies & sandwiches, cleaning and dishes
  • Organizing and rotating stock
  • Positive attitude and cheerful disposition
  • Following established dress code
  • Weekday and Saturday availability required

Work Includes

  • Weekends (We are always closed Sundays)
  • Some Holidays and/or dates leading up to holidays. (We are closed on the day-of all major holidays)

Paid Training:

  • Yes

Pay frequency:

  • Every week

Pay is hourly + tips for all staff members!

Job Types: Full-time, Part-time

Pay: $12.00 - $14.00 per hour depending on experience

Expected hours:

35 – 37 hrs per week, Full Time

25-30 hrs per week, Full/Part time

15-20 hrs per week, Part Time

Application Question(s):

  • Are you at least 18 years of age or older?

Duties

- Prepare and serve a variety of coffee drinks following recipes

- Operate espresso machines and other equipment

-Making sandwiches, smoothies, serving pastries

- Maintain a clean and organized workspace (doing dishes, cleaning)

- Take customer orders and handle transactions using POS systems

- Provide excellent customer service by engaging with customers in a friendly manner

- Assist with food preparation and handling as needed

Qualifications

- Prior experience in the food industry, particularly in a café setting, is preferred

- Knowledge of food safety practices and regulations

- Strong sales skills to promote products and upsell to customers

- Excellent customer service skills with the ability to communicate effectively

-Basic knowledge of the severity of food allergies and cross contamination a plus

- Familiarity with POS systems is a plus

Join our team and be part of creating a welcoming atmosphere where customers can enjoy delicious coffee drinks and pastries crafted with care.

Job Types: Full-time and Part-time positions available

Ability to Commute:

  • Knoxville, TN 37922 (Required)

Work Location: In person


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