Job Opportunity: Tech-Focused Barista – Co. Café
Location: Co. Innovation Centre (COIC) – St. John’s, NL
Applications will be accepted until end of business day, July 24th.
About Co. Innovation Centre
Co. Innovation Centre is Newfoundland and Labrador’s cross-sector hub for industry-led innovation- accelerating commercialization, digital transformation, and economic resilience across key sectors such as energy, mining, aerospace & defence, advanced manufacturing, and oceans.
As a neutral space for convergence, collaboration, and co-creation, COIC empowers businesses to tackle real-world challenges, develop dual-use technologies, and scale solutions for remote and harsh environments. Through curated programming, pilot R&D infrastructure, and development of global partnerships, we help position local companies for global leadership in remote operations and cutting-edge technologies.
Our work is guided by two strategic goals: strengthening Newfoundland and Labrador’s innovation ecosystem and establishing the province as a global destination for high-performance, future-ready industries.
About Co. Cafe
Co. Café, now operated by Co. Innovation Centre, is a vibrant public space where great coffee meets regional innovation. The café spotlights Newfoundland and Labrador’s local food and beverage makers through rotating features and live product testing- serving as a “living lab” for culinary innovation. It’s a welcoming hub for meetings, tastings, and creative connection in the heart of the province’s innovation ecosystem.
About the Role
We're hiring a tech-savvy, independent Barista who is excited to serve great coffee and food items, while contributing to product trials and collaborative innovation. Our café serves as a community gathering space and living lab, where experimentation meets hospitality.
Key Responsibilities
Hospitality & Customer Service
- Prepare and serve a variety of specialty coffee and tea beverages with precision and care
- Serve food and advise of offerings available based on product detail and product provider
- Engage with customers, offering exceptional service and personalized recommendations
- Maintain the café’s social media channels
- Maintain cleanliness and organization of the café, ensuring compliance with health and safety standards
- Operate and maintain café equipment, including espresso machines and grinders
- Manage inventory, restocking supplies as needed
- Assist in organizing and executing café events or promotions tailored to the tech community
- Participate in training sessions to stay up to date on trends and best practices
- Collaborate with team members to ensure a smooth and efficient work environment
- Operate a digital POS and automated brewing system
- Use cloud-based inventory software to track usage and support restocking
- Record and analyze data from product testing and flavour trials
- Support the development of data systems that help partners forecast ingredient and supply needs
- Share feedback and trial results using tools such as Microsoft Teams
- Work with internal and external stakeholders on new coffee flavour development and food item selections
Training & Support
Training will be provided in:
- Café operations and beverage preparation
- POS and inventory software
- Health, safety, and food handling standards
- COIC’s Work Alone Protocol and communication procedures
- Data tracking, sensory evaluation, and digital reporting
Requirements:
- Previous barista or food/beverage experience is an asset
- Strong knowledge of coffee brewing methods and equipment
- Tech-savvy or comfortable using digital ordering and inventory systems
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to multitask and work efficiently under pressure
- Comfortable working independently in a structured environment
- Flexible availability including mornings, evenings, and weekends
- Understanding of health and safety regulations in food service
Eligibility Requirements:
- Canadian citizen or permanent resident
- Be 19+ years of age
Café Hours:
- Monday–Friday: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM
(Barista scheduling will be set weekly, based on staff availability and business requirements)
What You’ll Gain:
- Real-world café and innovation lab experience
- Exposure to tech tools, flavour development, and product testing
- A strong resume addition
- Networking Opportunities with our membership and café patrons
Benefits:
Experience:
- Barista: 1 year (required)
Location:
- St. John's, NL A1A 5G9 (required)
Work Location: In person
