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Head Barista Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Drift Coffee & Kitchen

Head Barista

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

Founded in 2014, we are dedicated to making a positive impact on each guest through delicious coffee and made-to-order food At Drift, our Head Baristas create exceptional coffee experiences while ...

ecomaids

Part-time Cleaning Technician

Fuquay Varina, NC · On-site

$14/hr

After the final job, we head back to the office, spend about 10 minutes restocking and preparing ... If you have a background in the service industry, whether as a bartender, server, barista, retail ...

ecomaids

Part-time Cleaning Technician

Fuquay Varina, NC · On-site

$14/hr

After the final job, we head back to the office, spend about 10 minutes restocking and preparing ... If you have a background in the service industry, whether as a bartender, server, barista, retail ...

All JobsHead Barista JobsHead Barista Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Head Barista information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$7

$15

$18

How much do head barista jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for head barista in Raleigh, NC is $15.12, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.23 and $16.35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a head barista?

Head Baristas are senior coffee professionals responsible for overseeing the daily operations of a coffee bar or café. They lead and train other baristas, ensure coffee quality and consistency, manage inventory, and maintain equipment. Head Baristas also create and refine coffee recipes, handle customer service issues, and may assist with scheduling and administrative tasks. Their expertise ensures a high standard of service and a positive customer experience.

What are the typical leadership responsibilities of a head barista in a busy café setting?

As a Head Barista, you are responsible for supervising the barista team, ensuring consistent drink quality, and maintaining high standards of customer service. You will often handle training of new staff, manage shift scheduling, and troubleshoot equipment or supply issues. Collaboration with café management is common, especially for menu development, inventory management, and implementing health and safety standards. Balancing hands-on barista work with these leadership duties is a key challenge and an opportunity to develop strong managerial skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a head barista, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Head Barista, you need expert coffee-making skills, a deep understanding of coffee beans and brewing methods, and experience managing café operations—often supported by barista training or certification. Familiarity with espresso machines, grinders, POS systems, and inventory software is typically required. Leadership, customer service excellence, and the ability to train and motivate staff are standout soft skills in this role. These competencies are crucial for consistently delivering high-quality beverages, ensuring efficient workflow, and fostering a positive café environment.

What is the difference between Head Barista vs Barista?

AspectHead BaristaBarista
CredentialsExperience in coffee preparation, customer service, and leadershipBasic coffee-making skills, customer service experience
Work EnvironmentLeads shifts, manages team, oversees quality controlPrepares drinks, serves customers, maintains station
Employer UsageOften found in cafes, coffee shops, specialty coffee storesCommon in similar settings, entry to mid-level roles

The main difference between a Head Barista and a Barista is that the Head Barista has leadership responsibilities, oversees operations, and manages the team, while a Barista primarily focuses on preparing coffee and serving customers. The Head Barista typically requires more experience and skills in team management, whereas a Barista role is more focused on technical coffee skills and customer service.

What are the most commonly searched types of Barista jobs in Raleigh, NC?

The most popular types of Barista jobs in Raleigh, NC are:

What are popular job titles related to Head Barista jobs in Raleigh, NC?

For Head Barista jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Head Barista jobs in Raleigh, NC look for?

The top searched job categories for Head Barista jobs in Raleigh, NC are:

What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Head Barista jobs?

Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Head Barista job openings:

Head Barista jobs near you
Infographic showing various Head Barista job openings in Raleigh, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $31,440 per year, or $15.1 per hour.

Head Barista

Drift Coffee & Kitchen

Raleigh, NC • On-site

$17 - $20/hr

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 19 days ago

Job description

Benefits:
  • 401(k) matching
  • Competitive salary
  • Employee discounts
  • Opportunity for advancement
  • Training & development
  • Wellness resources

Drift is a collection of independent cafes serving fresh, holistic foods and beverages while offering an interactive experience to each and every guest. The experience drives connections between people. As a team, we are united by this everyday. Founded in 2014, we are dedicated to making a positive impact on each guest through delicious coffee and made-to-order food
At Drift, our Head Baristas create exceptional coffee experiences while delivering warm, genuine hospitality. This position pays $13.00 plus tips.
Food Safety
Follow all food safety, sanitation, and hygiene standards.
Wash hands, change gloves, and use tools correctly at all times.
Maintain proper temperature control and storage.
Keep work areas clean and food-safe.
Speak up immediately if something is unsafe or incorrect.
Never cut corners on safety, even when busy.
Food and Coffee Quality
Follow recipes, builds, and standards exactly.
Care about taste, appearance, and consistency.
Check your own work before it goes out.
Fix mistakes instead of sending them.
Ask for help when unsure rather than guessing.
Feel — The Drift Guest Experience
Greet guests warmly with eye contact and positive energy.
Use Drift hospitality language and behaviors.
Stay calm, respectful, and friendly under pressure.
Thank guests and invite them back.
Represent Drift with professionalism.
Flow
Move with urgency and purpose.
Stay aware of what’s happening around you.
Anticipate what’s needed next.
Keep your station organized and ready.
Adjust quickly as volume changes.
Function
Know your role and execute it consistently.
Communicate clearly with teammates and leaders.
Jump in to help when the team needs support.
Accept coaching and feedback.
Show up on time, prepared, and ready to work.