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Coffee Lab Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Coffee Trainer

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

$23 - $25/hr

Coffee is our craft, our ritual, our passion. It drives us and inspires us. With this simple truth ... As needed, keep training lab immaculately organized and clean after each training. Order supplies ...

Coffee Trainer

Santa Cruz, CA · On-site

$23 - $25/hr

Coffee is our craft, our ritual, our passion. It drives us and inspires us. With this simple truth ... As needed, keep training lab immaculately organized and clean after each training. Order supplies ...

Coffee Trainer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$23 - $25/hr

Coffee is our craft, our ritual, our passion. It drives us and inspires us. With this simple truth ... As needed, keep training lab immaculately organized and clean after each training. Order supplies ...

Coffee Trainer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$23 - $25/hr

Coffee is our craft, our ritual, our passion. It drives us and inspires us. With this simple truth ... As needed, keep training lab immaculately organized and clean after each training. Order supplies ...

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Berkeley, CA · On-site

$140K - $180K/yr

Our revolutionary electric, ventless commercial coffee roaster does not require gas lines or ... Hands-on prototyping and lab testing skills * Strong communicator and collaborator, comfortable ...

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Berkeley, CA · On-site

$140K - $180K/yr

Our revolutionary electric, ventless commercial coffee roaster does not require gas lines or ... Hands-on prototyping and lab testing skills * Strong communicator and collaborator, comfortable ...

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Berkeley, CA · On-site

$140K - $180K/yr

Our revolutionary electric, ventless commercial coffee roaster does not require gas lines or ... Hands-on prototyping and lab testing skills * Strong communicator and collaborator, comfortable ...

RN - Cath Lab

Modesto, CA · On-site

$2.8K/wk

... Lab Job ID 18981472 Job Title RN - Cath Lab Weekly Pay $2874.0 Shift Details Shift 10 Hour Day ... Health Vision Dental Life insurance Client Details Address 1700 Coffee Rd City Modesto State CA Zip ...

Travel Cath Lab Registered Nurse - $3,325 per week in taxable pay and non-taxable stipend amount ... Numerous coffee shops, including Verve Coffee Roasters, and boutique retail stores line the ...

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Showing results 1-20

Coffee Lab information

See California salary details

$9

$24

$44

How much do coffee lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for coffee lab in California is $24.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.99 and $27.50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a coffee lab?

A Coffee Lab is a specialized facility dedicated to the analysis, testing, and development of coffee products. These labs are used by coffee producers, roasters, and quality control professionals to evaluate coffee beans for attributes such as flavor, aroma, acidity, and consistency. Coffee Labs often conduct cupping sessions, research new brewing methods, and ensure quality standards are met throughout the coffee supply chain. They play a key role in maintaining high-quality coffee and supporting innovation in the industry.

What are some typical challenges faced by professionals working in a coffee lab, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in a coffee lab often face challenges such as maintaining consistency in cupping and sensory evaluations, managing sample inventory, and adapting to evolving quality standards. Working closely with other team members, such as roasters and quality assurance staff, is essential to ensure accurate results and continuous improvement. Staying organized, participating in regular calibration sessions, and keeping up with industry trends can help address these challenges and contribute to both personal and team success.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a coffee lab technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Coffee Lab Technician, you need a solid understanding of coffee science, sensory analysis, and quality control, often supported by experience in coffee roasting or a related certification (e.g., SCA Coffee Skills Program). Familiarity with laboratory equipment, cupping protocols, and data management systems is commonly required. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and effective communication help ensure consistency and collaboration within the team. These skills are essential to maintain high product standards, drive innovation, and support continuous improvement in coffee quality.

What is the difference between Coffee Lab vs Barista?

AspectCoffee LabBarista
CredentialsOften requires specialized training or certifications in coffee scienceTypically requires basic barista training or no formal certification
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, coffee testing facilities, or specialty coffee shopsRetail coffee shops, cafes, or restaurants
Industry UsageUsed in coffee research, quality control, and product developmentCustomer service, beverage preparation, and sales
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles in coffee quality and researchLearning about customer-facing coffee service roles

While a Coffee Lab focuses on coffee research, testing, and quality control, a Barista primarily prepares and serves coffee beverages to customers. Both roles are essential in the coffee industry but differ significantly in responsibilities, work environment, and required credentials.

What are popular job titles related to Coffee Lab jobs in California?

For Coffee Lab jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Coffee Lab jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Coffee Lab jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Coffee Lab jobs?

Cities in California with the most Coffee Lab job openings:

Infographic showing various Coffee Lab job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,829 per year, or $24.9 per hour.

Coffee Trainer

Palo Alto, CA • On-site

$23 - $25/hr

Other

Re-posted 27 days ago


Job description

JOB TITLE: Bay Area Retail Trainer

REPORTS TO: VP of Training and Development 

DEPARTMENT:  Training 

LOCATION: Bay Area, Home Store: University Ave. Palo Alto

At Verve Coffee Roasters, we believe the coffee experience is our responsibility from seed to cup.  Coffee is our craft, our ritual, our passion.  It drives us and inspires us.  With this simple truth and responsibility we are bridging the gap from farmlevel to streetlevel.   We seek an enthusiastic Bay Area Retail Trainer to join our team. 



Position Summary

The Retail Trainer works in several contexts, including the Santa Cruz Roastery  and and the Bay Area cafes. This trainer splits time between Training Operations (40%) and in-store training/cafe shifts (60%).  Training Operations, will conduct training,  create new content, distribute training materials  and fulfill administrative responsibilities, including scheduling and meetings.  During cafe shifts, the Retail Trainer guides skill integration, coaching,  development and product quality audits.


KEY RESPONSIBILITIES 

  • Deliver unparalleled coffee education and hospitality to our employees through training program implementation and direct training

  • Maintain and deliver core training curriculum as guided by the VP of Training 

  • Possess an in-depth knowledge of Verve policies, products, and standards

  • Be a Brand Ambassador

  • Maintain positivity and enthusiasm at all times

  • Ensure that a superior quality product is being served to customers


SPECIFIC DUTIES- TRAINING OPERATIONS (40%)

  • Schedule and deliver training modules, including Orientation, Menu Training, Register Operations, Hospitality, Cafe Operations, Culinary, Milk and Bar Training. 

  • Host cuppings and Coffee Education classes

  • Support Shift Lead Training. 

  • Track LMS completion and make assignments and employee progress on skill mastery

  • Hold meetings with Managers and Regional managers to strategize on goals 

  • Assist in monthly coffee launch logistics, dialing in coffees for the cafes and sharing  recipe specifications

  • Support staff training on all product launches, including signature beverages  and culinary

  • Complete projects, develop content and create cafe tools as directed by the VP of Training

  • Help with Wholesale and Community and events as needed 

  • Champion and emulate company mission, vision and values at all times

  • As needed, keep training lab immaculately organized and clean after each training. Order supplies as needed.

SPECIFIC DUTIES- CAFE SHIFTS (60%)

  • Conduct Shadow shifts with employees to integrate new skills  into the cafe environment. 

  • Fill cafe shifts. Lead by example in all roles and responsibilities, demonstrating mastery in product knowledge, hospitality and drink standards.  

  • Coach on product quality, cleanliness,  work-flow efficiency 

  • Ensure all café employees are trained and performing to VCR standards

  • Complete store visits and audit for quality. Coach and correct accordingly. 

  • Assess and report equipment-related issues that affect product quality

  • Promote an excellent experience for both employees and customers

  • Anticipate customer and store needs by being aware of surroundings

  • Adhere to café schedule

  • Follow VCR cash handling procedures

  • Follow health, safety and sanitation guidelines


Qualifications and Requirements

  • Minimum 3 year experience in specialty cafe environment preferred

  • Advanced knowledge of espresso and beverage preparation

  • Previous training experience and leadership experience  in a café setting a plus

  • Experience with equipment calibration preferred 

  • Open availability, including some weekends, holidays and ability to report to the Santa Cruz training lab during weekday business hours

  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills 

  • Strong Organizational, planning and time management skills

  • Able to multi-task and deal with ambiguity in a fast-paced environment