Barista

Role overview

Join Cobra Coffee in Ashford as a Barista and help deliver the Starbucks experience through friendly service, quality drinks, and well-presented food and beverage products. This role places you at the centre of the store community, where customer care and connection are valued in every shift.

Cobra Coffee is a franchised partner of Starbucks UK and offers a workplace focused on balance, development, and internal growth. You will be part of both the Starbucks and Cobra Coffee teams, with opportunities to build skills and progress your career.

What you will do

• Prepare consistent beverages, whole bean products, and food items in line with recipe and presentation standards.
• Support day-to-day store operations, including opening and closing duties, cash handling, and maintaining safety and security standards.
• Step in to help colleagues during busy periods so the store continues to run smoothly.
• Take time to understand customer preferences and the store environment so you can respond to needs proactively.
• Deliver excellent service by creating positive, genuine interactions with every customer.
• Keep the workspace tidy, clean, and well organised for both customers and partners.

What to expect

No previous barista experience is required. What matters most is a strong enthusiasm for customer service and a desire to create enjoyable moments for customers. The role is fast-moving and varied, with every shift bringing different tasks and interactions.

Benefits and workplace support

• 28 days of holiday each year, including Bank Holidays.
• Unlimited brewed coffee and English breakfast tea while on shift.
• Discounted handcrafted beverages and food during your shift.
• 30% off bottled drinks and impulse items during your shift.
• One food item priced at £1.50 per shift on selected products.
• 30% discount on all food, beverages, merchandise, and gifts when not working.
• 30% Green Apron discount across participating Starbucks stores.
• Third-party savings, including 20% off in Southern Co-op food stores.
• Life insurance.
• Comprehensive training, including coffee knowledge and access to Starbucks Global Academy for ongoing learning.
• Clear opportunities for career growth through internal promotion.

Working pattern

Store hours may include early mornings, evenings, and weekends, depending on business needs.

Application process

The hiring journey includes an application review, CV screening, a telephone interview, right-to-work document verification, an interview with an in-store experience, followed by an offer and onboarding.

Additional information

This is a customer-facing role in a store environment where no two days are the same. The team places value on belonging, support, and being heard at work.