Overview

The Barista is a key member of the Phoenix Mercury WNBA Player Performance Dining team, supporting athletes, coaches, and staff by preparing fresh smoothies, specialty coffee beverages, and performance-focused drinks that contribute to optimal fueling, hydration, and recovery. This role goes beyond traditional café service — it supports the daily performance needs of elite athletes by delivering high-quality beverages with speed, consistency, and attention to nutrition.

Oak View Group (OVG) is the global leader in venue development, management, and premium hospitality services for the live event industry. The Player Performance Dining program at the Mercury Training Facility is designed to fuel elite athletes through thoughtfully prepared meals, hydration programs, and recovery-focused nutrition. This position plays an important role in supporting that mission.

This position reports directly to the Team Chef and works closely with the culinary team, nutrition staff, and training personnel to ensure beverages align with athlete fueling strategies and recovery goals.

This role pays an hourly rate of $18.00-$21.00

Benefits for Part-Time roles: 401(k) Savings Plan and 401(k) matching.

This position will remain open until June 12, 2026.

Responsibilities

• Prepare fresh smoothies, protein shakes, recovery beverages, and specialty coffee drinks according to team nutrition guidelines and established recipes.
• Operate espresso machines, blenders, grinders, and other beverage equipment safely and efficiently.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and well-stocked smoothie and coffee bar station throughout service periods.
• Coordinate with chefs and nutrition staff to ensure smoothies and beverages support athlete fueling plans, including protein, hydration, and recovery blends.
• Monitor ingredients such as fresh fruits, plant-based milks, dairy products, protein powders, supplements, and coffee supplies to ensure freshness and proper rotation.
• Accurately portion ingredients and maintain consistency in beverage preparation to meet both culinary and nutrition standards.
• Maintain awareness of allergens, dietary preferences, and athlete-specific nutrition considerations.
• Provide professional and discreet service to Mercury players, coaches, and staff while maintaining a welcoming and focused environment.
• Assist with hydration stations, ensuring water, electrolyte beverages, and recovery drinks are fully stocked and refreshed.
• Smoothie bar equipment, prep areas, and service counters sanitized and compliant with all health and food safety regulations.
• Communicate inventory needs the culinary team to ensure uninterrupted service.
• Support team meals, recovery stations, and special athlete dining events as directed by the Team Chef and Mercury staff.
• Perform additional duties as assigned to support the success of the Player Performance Dining program.

Qualifications

• 1–2 years of experience in coffee shops, smoothie bars, cafés, or restaurant beverage programs preferred.
• Experience operating espresso machines, blenders, grinders, and related beverage equipment strongly preferred.
• Basic understanding of nutrition, supplements, and health-focused beverages is a plus.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow recipes and nutrition guidelines precisely.
• Ability to work efficiently during peak service periods while maintaining organization and cleanliness.
• Professional communication skills with the ability to interact respectfully with athletes, coaches, chefs, and training staff.
• Self-motivated and dependable with the ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
• Flexible schedule availability to align with WNBA training, practice, and game schedules.