ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Cafe Assistant Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Source Farms

Ground Market & Café Associate

Carlton, OR · On-site

$17/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Staff The Ground Market & Café, supporting both retail and food & beverage service * Prepare and ... Prepare simple food items, including warming breakfast sandwiches and serving baked goods * Assist ...

Tabula Rasa Farms

Ground Market Retail & Café Manager

Carlton, OR · On-site

$58K - $60K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

As the Retail & Café Manager , you'll create a welcoming and efficient guest experience by leading ... * Assist with scheduling, performance management, inventory management, and special events.

Grounded Hospitality

Ground Market & Cafe Associate

Carlton, OR · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Staff The Ground Market & Cafe, supporting both retail and food & beverage service * Prepare and ... Prepare simple food items, including warming breakfast sandwiches and serving baked goods * Assist ...

K-1 Speed Inc

Cashier Supervisor

Hillsboro, OR · On-site

... Assistant and General Managers regarding disciplinary and operational issues · Prepare front desk and café prior to opening · Instruct new customers on race package options, pricing and the ...

Tabula Rasa Farms

Ground Market Restaurant Manager

Carlton, OR · On-site

$60K - $64K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Support retail and café operations by maintaining merchandising standards, restocking products ... * Assist with scheduling, performance management, inventory management, and special events.

Cascada F&B LLC

Alberta Street Coffee Barista

Portland, OR · On-site

$15.75 - $18.25/hr

... cafe. You will work closely with your team to foster a friendly and engaging environment that ... Replenish inventory of coffee beans, milk, syrups, and other supplies as needed. * Assist with ...

Cascada F&B LLC

Alberta Street Coffee Barista

Portland, OR · On-site

$15.75 - $18.25/hr

... café. You will work closely with your team to foster a friendly and engaging environment that ... Replenish inventory of coffee beans, milk, syrups, and other supplies as needed. * Assist with ...

The Bay Club Company

Bay Club Associate

Tigard, OR · On-site

$15.25 - $21/hr

Café opening and/or closing duties, as required. * Maintain a clean, safe work environment ... Provide towels as needed, assist with towel operation. Parking Garage Oversight (if applicable)

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsCafe JobsCafe Assistant JobsCafe Assistant Jobs in Portland, OR

Cafe Assistant information

See Portland, OR salary details

$11

$16

$19

How much do cafe assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for cafe assistant in Portland, OR is $16.30, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.28 and $17.84 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 Portland, OR?

The most popular types of Cafe jobs in Portland, OR are:

What are popular job titles related to Cafe Assistant jobs in Portland, OR?

For Cafe Assistant jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Cafe Assistant jobs in Portland, OR look for?

The top searched job categories for Cafe Assistant jobs in Portland, OR are:

What cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Cafe Assistant jobs?

Cities near Portland, OR with the most Cafe Assistant job openings:

Cafe Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cafe Assistant job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,905 per year, or $16.3 per hour.

Ground Market & Café Associate

Source Farms

Carlton, OR • On-site

$17/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

About The Ground Market
Ground Market is a community gathering place in the heart of Carlton, Oregon, in the Willamette Valley-bringing together a wood-fired pizza and ice cream shop alongside a market and farmstand rooted in the region's agricultural abundance. The space is warm, lively, and welcoming, inviting locals and visitors to connect over simple, good food.
Ground Market is part of The Ground, a collection of destinations and experiences rooted in a philosophy of conscious, loving hospitality in service to all species.
Why we need you
We're looking for team members who can bring The Ground Market to life through both retail and café experiences. This role is central to creating a welcoming, engaging environment where guests feel cared for-whether they're shopping for high-quality meats and produce, ordering a morning coffee, or grabbing a quick bite.
You'll play a key role in connecting people to our food, our farmers, and our mission-while helping the Market & Café operate smoothly day-to-day. This position also offers the opportunity to grow within The Ground Market and the broader Ground ecosystem over time.
Responsibilities
  • Create a warm, welcoming, and engaging experience for every customer
  • Staff The Ground Market & Café, supporting both retail and food & beverage service
  • Prepare and serve high-quality coffee and espresso drinks, demonstrating strong barista technique, attention to detail, and consistency in drink preparation
  • Take customer orders and handle transactions accurately and efficiently
  • Prepare simple food items, including warming breakfast sandwiches and serving baked goods
  • Assist across service areas as needed, including supporting the ice cream counter, running food, and bussing tables
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and inviting café and retail environment
  • Support opening and closing responsibilities, including watering plants, maintaining produce displays, and ensuring overall space readiness
  • Speak knowledgeably about our products, farms, and sourcing to guide customer purchases
  • Build relationships with customers and develop an understanding of their preferences
  • Maintain and restock displays (meat, produce, dry goods, and café items) throughout the day
  • Assist with basic food handling and packaging, including wrapping meat products
  • Sell wine and, when appropriate, pour and serve alcoholic beverages in accordance with regulations
  • Support inventory processes, including stocking, counting, and communicating needs
  • Complete end-of-day tasks, including cleaning, closing procedures, and retail reconciliation
  • Communicate clearly and professionally with customers and team members across all channels
  • Uphold all food safety, cleanliness, and operational standards

Requirements
Qualifications
  • Genuine passion for hospitality and creating a positive guest experience
  • Experience in retail, café, barista, or food service environments preferred
  • Comfort preparing coffee/espresso drinks (or willingness to learn quickly)
  • Strong communication skills-friendly, clear, and professional in all interactions
  • Ability to multitask and stay organized in a fast-paced, hybrid environment
  • Detail-oriented with a high standard for cleanliness and presentation
  • Ability to work both independently and as part of a team
  • Strong problem-solving skills and a proactive mindset
  • Familiarity with or interest in high-quality, local, and regenerative food systems
  • Comfortable using POS systems, email, and basic computer programs
  • Availability to work weekends and flexible schedules
  • Comfortable on your feet for extended periods and able to lift up to 50 pounds
  • Current State Food Handler's License and OLCC certification required

Experience: 2-3 years of experience in retail, hospitality, café, or similar environments preferred
Benefits: Benefits include PTO, health, vision, dental, life insurance, 401(k) for qualifying employees.
Employee perks: 20% discount at Ground entities (includes Ground Market, Grounded Table, The Pub, Grounded Body)
Ground Market is hiring for a variety of roles: Counter Server & Bartender, FOH Support, Cook, Dishwasher, and Café Associate.
We're opening our doors for a walk-in job fair-come meet the team, learn more about the space, and see where you might fit in.
Wednesday, Thursday & Friday, Apr 29-May 1 10AM - 4PM
Park & Main 211 W Main St, Carlton, OR
Bring yourself-no appointment needed.
About The Ground
The Ground is a hospitality business based in beautiful Willamette Valley that exists to realize human potential in harmony with the planet. It is an evolving collection of experiences and destinations rooted in conscious, loving hospitality in service to all with a philosophy of belonging that comes to life through regenerative agriculture, food, accommodations, revitalizing wellness experiences, and engaging programs & events.
The Ground is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. If you're interested in this role, but your experience doesn't align perfectly with every qualification in the job description, we still encourage you to apply. You may just be the right candidate for this or other roles at The Ground.?
Salary Description
$17/hr +tips

Apply