Lead Barista

DESTROYER
destroyer.la

At Destroyer, we seek baristas who view coffee and tea as more than beverages. They are craft, ritual, discipline, and expression. They exist at the intersection of art and science, precision and hospitality.

We are committed to beauty, humility, and purity. Our philosophy examines the tension between art, science, and the human condition. Our work is intimate and deeply personal, yet shaped by the collective energy of our community. We draw inspiration from our farmers, foragers, artists, musicians, and from the daily pursuit of refinement within our craft.

Destroyer is an open and dynamic creative space where chefs and guests engage directly. There are no traditional divisions between front and back of house. No barriers. One team, fully accountable for the entire experience.

Guests step into a working atelier where everything is visible and intentional. Every ingredient is respected. Every decision is thoughtful. Every gesture of service carries meaning. Coffee and tea service are held to the same standard as any dish leaving the kitchen. Precision, awareness, and care define the work.

LEAD BARISTA ROLE OVERVIEW

We are seeking a knowledgeable and deeply committed coffee and tea professional to lead and evolve our beverage program.

This role is designed for someone who understands extraction theory and espresso calibration at a high level, who values sourcing and seasonality, and who recognizes the impact of water composition, grinder alignment, workflow design, and repetition on quality. Equal attention should be given to milk texture, tea preparation, and guest engagement.

Technical mastery is essential, but hospitality is equally important. The Lead Barista sets the tone for excellence, consistency, and generosity at the bar.

You will maintain and elevate quality standards, mentor and train teammates, and ensure the beverage program reflects the same integrity, discipline, and creativity as our kitchen.

POSITION DETAILS:

• Lead daily coffee and tea service with precision and consistency
• Dial in espresso and monitor extraction throughout service
• Maintain equipment cleanliness, calibration, and workflow efficiency
• Assist in seasonal beverage development and menu refinement
• Train and educate team members across all stations
• Engage guests in a warm, informed, and genuine manner
• Develop deep knowledge of the menu, building, and neighborhood
• Work in a highly organized and detail oriented manner
• AM and weekend availability required

 
REQUIRED SKILLS:

• Minimum two years specialty coffee experience preferred
• Advanced understanding of espresso extraction and milk science
• Experience with manual brew methods and high volume service
• Knowledge of specialty tea sourcing and preparation strongly valued
• Food Handler’s Certificate
• Demonstrated commitment to refinement and raising service standards
• Ability to thrive in a fully integrated team structure

HOURS AND COMPENSATION:
Competitive pay plus tips with a benefits program that includes free HMO medical (after 60 days), dental, vision, and life insurance.

Company discounts

Must be eligible to work in the US