Barista training checklist

A complete training path for new baristas — from espresso fundamentals to running the bar independently.

• Equipment & station orientation — Trainer walks through the espresso machine, grinder, steam wand, and bar layout. Cover daily cleaning requirements and what the station should look like at the start and end of every shift.
• Dosing, grinding & tamping — Trainer demonstrates correct dose weight, grind adjustment, and tamping pressure. Trainee practices until they can produce a consistent puck without guidance.
• Espresso extraction — Trainer explains extraction time, yield, and what correct espresso looks like, tastes like, and flows like. Trainee pulls shots independently and is signed off when results are consistent.
• Milk steaming & texturing — Trainer demonstrates correct steaming technique for each milk type and temperature target. Trainee practices until they can produce the correct texture for flat whites, lattes, and cappuccinos without coaching.
• Drink building & sequencing — Practice building the full menu in the correct order under service conditions. Cover how to manage multiple orders without falling behind.
• Allergen protocol at the bar — Cover how to handle a dairy-free or allergen request: equipment to change, what to clean, how to confirm the order before handoff. Trainee demonstrates independently before sign-off.
• Bar service shadow shift — Trainee works the bar alongside their trainer for a full service. Trainer coaches in real time and completes the bar sign-off scorecard at the end of the shift.
• Speed & consistency under pressure — Trainer observes the trainee handling a realistic queue. Signs off only when drink quality is consistent at pace — not just during practice runs.

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