Cafe jobs in Balnarring Beach VIC

Barista / Hospitality All-Rounder – Manna Gum Cafe

Location: Manna Gum Cafe located within the Koala Conservation Reserve, Phillip Island VIC

Employment Type: Casual Opportunity

Pay Rate: $31.00 – $35.00 per hour (commensurate with experience and award classification)

About Us

Situated within the scenic grounds of the Koala Conservation Reserve, Manna Gum Cafe serves high-quality coffee, fresh food, and exceptional service to domestic and international visitors exploring Phillip Island.

We are seeking experienced, fast-paced, and highly autonomous Baristas & Hospitality All-Rounders to join our team. If you are a seasoned hospitality professional who takes ownership of your station, moves with urgency during peak trade, and thrives in an independent, high-volume environment, we want to hear from you.

Key Responsibilities

• Espresso Service: Dial in grinders and run the coffee machine efficiently during heavy rushes while maintaining exceptional extraction standards and milk texture.
• Autonomous Station Management: Take full ownership of service flow—from POS operation and guest interaction to food delivery and cabinet replenishment—without needing constant direction.
• Thrive Under Pressure: Maintain focus, composure, and a sense of urgency when managing long queues and peak tourist rushes.
• End-to-End Daily Operations: Manage opening and closing procedures independently, enforce food safety, and keep the dining and work areas immaculate throughout trade.
• Problem-Solving & Initiative: Identify operational bottlenecks in real time and step in across espresso, kitchen support, or floor service to keep wait times low.

What We Are Looking For

• Proven Experience: Demonstrated background in fast-paced, cafes or busy food & beverage venues. Barista capability on commercial espresso equipment is strongly preferred.
• Independent & Self-Driven: Ability to work autonomously, prioritize tasks on the fly, and maintain high operational standards without oversight.
• Speed & Stamina: Natural sense of urgency and ability to move quickly and cleanly under sustained pressure.
• Availability & Reliability: Flexible availability across a mix of weekdays, weekends, school holidays, and peak tourism seasons. Reliable transport to the Koala Conservation Reserve is essential.

Why Join Us?

• Unique Work Environment: Work alongside native wildlife in a stunning nature setting.
• Competitive Pay: Award rates with penalty rates applied for weekend work.
• Autonomous Work Culture: A trust-based environment where experienced hospitality workers are given the room to run efficient shifts.

How to Apply

If you are an experienced hospitality worker who thrives under pressure and delivers fast, reliable service, send your resume and a brief summary of your barista and hospitality experience.

Job Type: Part-time

Pay: $31.00 – $35.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Employee discount

Application Question(s):

• Where are you located?
• Why have you applied for this role?
• Why do you think this role is for you?

Experience:

• Hospitality: 1 year (Preferred)

Work Authorisation:

• Australia (Preferred)

Work Location: In person