Barista (Ida Bar)

 Are You Ready to Energise Campus Life? Join UMSU as a Barista  

• Position: Barista (Ida Bar)
• Division: UMSU Office of the Chief Executive Officer
• Employment Status: Casual
• Casual Salary Level: Level 2 (Food and beverage attendant Grade 2 Restaurant Award [MA000119].
• Location: Ida bar, University of Melbourne, Parkville
• [?] Start Date: February 2026

About The University of Melbourne Student Union Inc (UMSU)

The University of Melbourne Student Union Inc (UMSU) is a dynamic, for-purpose incorporated association, serving as the representative body for all students at the University of Melbourne. Structured around student control of student affairs, UMSU is governed by an elected Students’ Council and twelve student departments, chosen by and from the student body.

Located in the heart of the University of Melbourne’s award-winning student precinct, UMSU is a vibrant, creative, and diverse social justice organization committed to representing and supporting University of Melbourne students. Our vast arts and culture programs for emerging student artists are run in a state-of-the-art theatre, a professional art gallery, the iconic Rowden White Library and the Ida Bar – the only student bar on campus.

About the role

Operating under the supervision of the Head Chef, the Barista will be responsible for providing exceptional customer service to all customers of Ida’s Bar. This position is also responsible for ensuring that all food and beverage services are provided to a high quality and in line with safe food handling procedures.

This position is also responsible for ensuring a safe and comfortable environment where the needs of students and internal stakeholders are not only met but exceeded, promoting a positive image of UMSU at all times.

As an organisation providing student-facing services and events, an inherent requirement of this role is the ability to work in person and on site and will require some manual handling. UMSU staff employment conditions are covered by the University of Melbourne Student Union Enterprise Bargaining Agreement 2023-2025.

How to Apply?

To find out more information about this position, please View the position description here.

All applications should include:

• A cover letter responding to the key selection criteria (maximum 2 pages of text)
• A brief CV highlighting relevant experience, and
• The names and contact details of 3 professional referees.  

Applications for this position close at Midnight Sunday, 11 January 2026 and should be submitted via the Recruitment Form.

If at any stage of the recruitment and selection process you require an alternative format to the application material or reasonable adjustment to the interview arrangements, please contact us at recruitment@union.unimelb.edu.au

Key Duties

• Preparing and serving Barista coffee and drinks.
• Manage coffee stock and rotation: Refill beans, milk, cups, and syrups; follow FIFO and storage guidelines.
• Operate coffee equipment safely: Use espresso machines, grinders, milk steamers, and maintain correct settings.
• Delivering exceptional Customer Service across the floor.
• Monitor product quality: Taste test shots, adjust grind, and ensure drinks meet venue
• Maintaining cleanliness and preparation of service areas: keep the machine, benches, jugs, and tools clean and sanitised throughout service.
• Washing up and general cleaning of the bar and floor.
• Cash handling and register operation; enter orders accurately, manage tabs, and process payments.
• Provision of excellent customer service.
• Prepare simple food items: Heat pastries, assemble light snacks, or assist with basic food handling as required.
• Knowledge of Food Safety and allergy requirements.
• Support opening and closing routines: Set up the coffee station, clean down equipment, and complete end-of-shift tasks.
• Ad Hoc tasks as required

Key Selection Criteria

Essential Skills and Qualifications:

• RSA Certificate essential
• Strong understanding of Hygiene and Food Safety Standards and holds a Food Handlers Safety Certificate
• Previous experience working within a fast-paced hospitality environment.
• Self-motivated with the ability to work independently
• Must always be well presented and possess exemplary customer service skills.
• Willingness to be part of an enthusiastic and motivated team
• A pro-active ‘can do’ attitude – willing to perform any tasks required across all facets of the bar.
• Must hold a valid Working with Children Check
• Well-developed verbal and written communication skills.

Desirable Skills and Qualifications:

• Previous bar and barista experience is not essential, but it is highly advantageous

Additional information

Please note, all applicants will require to hold or obtain a valid Employee Working with Children Check and provide verification of unrestricted working rights in Australia.  

UMSU is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We encourage applications from diverse backgrounds, including First Nations people, women, people with disabilities, and those from culturally and linguistically diverse communities.

UMSU acknowledges the Wurundjeri people as the Traditional Owners of the land where we operate. We pay our respects to Indigenous Elders past, present, and emerging. Sovereignty was never ceded. This always was and always will be, Aboriginal land.

Applications may be assessed as they are received. UMSU reserves the right to withdraw this position at any stage of the recruitment process. Late applications will not be accepted.