Sandford Talking Shop
Barista – Saturday Market
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Sandford Talking Shop Café
Sandford Talking Shop Café is a community-focused space that brings people together through conversation, creativity, and connection. More than a traditional café, Talking Shop provides a welcoming environment where ideas are exchanged, friendships are built, and local voices are celebrated.
Alongside serving quality food and coffee, we actively support local makers, independent businesses, and entrepreneurs through our vibrant Saturday Market, themed events, workshops, and community initiatives. We believe that great coffee and meaningful conversations help create stronger, more connected communities.
If you're passionate about exceptional customer service, thrive in a busy environment, and enjoy being part of a friendly community, we'd love to hear from you.
Role Description
We are looking for an experienced Barista to join our Saturday Market team at Sandford Talking Shop Café.
This is a part-time, on-site position based in Sandford-on-Thames, Oxford, working every Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Our Saturday Market is a fast-paced service with high customer demand between 9:00 a.m. and 11:45 a.m. You'll be responsible for preparing high-quality coffee, delivering excellent customer service, and ensuring smooth operation of the coffee station throughout the shift.
Following the busy service period, you'll be responsible for cleaning the espresso machine, maintaining the coffee station, restocking supplies, and preparing the area for the next business day.
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This role is perfect for someone who enjoys working efficiently under pressure while creating a warm and welcoming experience for every customer.
Key Responsibilities
- Prepare a full range of espresso-based coffees and speciality hot drinks to a consistently high standard.
- Deliver friendly, professional, and efficient customer service.
- Operate the espresso machine confidently during busy service periods.
- Manage multiple coffee orders accurately while maintaining quality.
- Ensure the coffee station remains clean, organised, and fully stocked throughout the shift.
- Follow all food hygiene, health, and safety procedures.
- Handle customer requests professionally and with a positive attitude.
- Clean and maintain the espresso machine and surrounding work area after service.
- Restock milk, coffee beans, cups, and other supplies ready for the next business day.
- Work closely with the Market Manager and wider Talking Shop team.
- Support the welcoming, community-focused atmosphere that Talking Shop is known for.
- Carry out any additional duties reasonably requested by the Market Manager.
Qualifications
Essential:
- Minimum 1 year of barista experience in a busy café or coffee shop.
- Confident using commercial espresso machines.
- Ability to prepare a full range of espresso-based drinks consistently.
- Excellent customer service and interpersonal skills.
- Friendly, approachable, and confident communicator.
- Able to work calmly and efficiently in a fast-paced environment.
- Strong organisational skills and attention to detail.
- Reliable, punctual, and self-motivated.
- Comfortable working independently while also contributing to a team.
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Desirable:
- Previous experience working in busy weekend markets or high-volume cafés.
- Basic food preparation experience.
- Knowledge of food hygiene and safety standards.
- Flexibility to support occasional Talking Shop community events.
- Passion for supporting local businesses and community initiatives.
Working Hours
- Saturday: 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. (4 hours per week)
- Service period: 9:00 a.m. – 11:45 a.m.
- Closing duties: 11:45 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Compensation
- PAYE (paid monthly by BACS)
- Age 21+: £12.71 per hour
- Age 18–20: £10.85 per hour
- Age 16–17: £8.00 per hour
How to Apply
Please send the following to market.talkingshop@gmail.com:
- Your updated CV/Resume
- A short personal statement explaining:
- Why you're interested in joining Sandford Talking Shop.
- Why this role appeals to you.
- What skills and experience you would bring to our Saturday Market team.
Why Join Talking Shop?
At Sandford Talking Shop, you'll be part of a welcoming community café where coffee is only part of the experience. Every Saturday brings new customers, conversations, and opportunities to make a positive impact. If you're passionate about coffee, enjoy working with people, and want to contribute to a thriving local community, we'd love to welcome you to our team.
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