WHO WE ARE
Dear Mama is a love letter to the women and communities who raised us, and to the spirit of care that holds people together. The cafe and our approach to hospitality is inspired by the generations of women who have collectively shaped us, and the larger village that raised us as native New Yorkers in multigenerational neighborhoods with extended family, neighbors, and chosen kin who taught us what it means to show up, feed people, and lead with love.
We are looking for a Barista / Server to contribute to our soulful hospitality, and work with us to continue to elevate our coffee and bar program curated by owner Zach Sharaga, who was the founder of NYT-acclaimed of the jazz bar Louis 649, and co-owner of MACE, recognized as one of the Top 50 Cocktail Bars in the World. The cafe is nestled amongst the Columbia University buildings of its Manhattanville campus, and we are proud to have been part of the Harlem community for a decade this year!
JOB DETAILS
WHAT YOU’LL DO
WHO YOU ARE
COMPENSATION & BENEFITS
Dear Mama NYC is an all-day cafe nestled on Columbia University’s Manhattanville Campus just 1 block from 125th stop on the 1 train. The cafe is built in a glass-walled atrium with an open kitchen for a relaxed and sun-filled atmosphere where the staff and guests feel like a family.
Server / Baristas at Dear Mama occupy a unique position on the floor. They are experts, well-informed artisans, and they’re always happy to see you.
This role reports directly to the Beverage & Service Director and Assistant Manager.
Scope Guardrail: This is a service hybrid role, you will be serving guests both in the dining room and from behind the barista bar, depending on the shift you are scheduled for. Job responsibilities may evolve based on operational needs of the day. Any material changes will be discussed in advance.
Service
Embodying Dear Mama’s culture and hospitality through each interaction
Serve guests in the dining room while providing exceptional hospitality and following the steps of service
Running food and beverages to the guests
Ringing in guests orders at the POS for the guests that are grabbing food and beverage to go
Making coffee orders both for to go orders and guests dining in
Food Safety & Quality
Implement and enforce best practices for sanitation and all DOH standards
An A grade is a non-negotiable requirement
How Success Is Measured
Positive guest feedback during peak service periods
Daily checklists are completed on time
Original content shared across social media platforms
Sales revenue for merch and branded products
You are a service and detail oriented person who is excited to take the Dear Mama brand from a beloved community staple, to a coveted aspirational brand that echoes the soul and intentionality of the brand itself.
You delight in collaboration and an environment that encourages curiosity, experimentation, collaboration and personal growth
You are rooted in your community and excited to great unique experiences for our guests
Your Skills
Service and hospitality
You love building community and welcoming guests into a space and thrive on the enjoyment of others
Communication: Strong oral and written communication skills to effectively communicate and collaborate with staff and guests.
Attention to Detail: Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
Your Expertise & Background
1 year of experience as a server, back server or barista in a high volume restaurants
Collaborative, with strong communication and organizational skills
Someone motivated to take ownership of their work and contribute meaningfully to a growing, community-centered business.
This role requires the ability to move, pull, push, carry, or lift up to 30 pounds and to meet the physical demands of an 8-hour shift in a restaurant environment. These are essential job functions.
Minimum commitment of 4 shifts or 32 hours a week
Hourly rate is $11.35 + tips
Benefits and Perks
Health Insurance, Dental Insurance, Vision Insurance, Dining Discounts
Please send an email that includes:
1. Brief introduction
a. What you love about NYC
b. What made you interested in this opportunity
2. Resume
3. Your availability for a meeting
Dear Mama NYC is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of any protected characteristic under applicable federal, state, or local law.