Job Posting: Retail Associate/ Barista

Location: Waterton Lakes National Park, Alberta, Canada
Position Type: Full-Time, Seasonal (May – September 2025)
Compensation: Competitive hourly wage + tips + staff discounts

About Us:

Nestled in the heart of Waterton Lakes National Park, our store and café are beloved by both locals and visitors alike. We offer a unique combination of high-end outdoor gear and clothing, souvenirs, artisan espresso and a curated selection of food offerings. Whether guests are starting their day with a coffee or shopping for that perfect new jacket, our goal is to provide exceptional service in a beautiful, welcoming environment. We’re passionate about sustainability, the outdoors, and creating a memorable experience for all who visit us in Waterton. 

We are looking for a dynamic, hardworking Retail Associate / Barista to join our team for the 2025 summer season. If you have a love for the outdoors, for coffee, enjoy interacting with people, and thrive in a busy, customer-focused environment, this is the role for you!

Position Overview:

As a Retail Associate / Barista, you’ll be responsible for a variety of tasks that keep our store and café running smoothly. From crafting exceptional coffee drinks to assisting customers with retail purchases, managing inventory, and ensuring cleanliness, you’ll play a key role in creating a positive and efficient experience for both our customers and your fellow team members. This position requires a blend of customer service, coffee-making skills, and retail expertise, all while maintaining a friendly and professional demeanor in a busy, fast-paced environment.

Key Responsibilities:

Barista Service:

• Prepare Coffee & Espresso Drinks: Create high-quality coffee, espresso-based drinks, and other beverages according to standard recipes. Ensure consistency, taste, and presentation are always on point.

• Kitchen Skills: Bake, food prep and prepare large lunch orders for groups and customers.

• Customer Interaction: Greet customers, take their orders, and provide friendly, attentive service to ensure a positive experience. Educate guests about the coffee and drink menu.

• Maintain Equipment: Regularly clean and maintain the espresso machines, grinders, and other coffee equipment to ensure optimal performance and cleanliness.

• Cleaning/Maintenance: Ensure clean and tidy cafe surfaces and surroundings. Follow standard cleaning protocols for commercial kitchen environments. 

Retail Sales & Customer Service:

• Assist Customers: Help customers with selecting and purchasing items in our retail shop, including local souvenirs, outdoor gear, clothing, and gifts. Answer questions about products, offer recommendations, and provide excellent customer service.

• Point of Sale (POS) Transactions: Handle cash and credit card transactions efficiently and accurately. Process returns and exchanges when necessary.

• Merchandising: Ensure the retail space is well-organized, visually appealing, and stocked with the latest products. Assist with re-stocking shelves, arranging displays, and keeping the store tidy.

• Stock & Restock: Assist with inventory management by receiving shipments, checking stock levels, and ensuring products are neatly displayed and rotated. Maintain accurate stock records.

• Health & Safety Standards: Ensure compliance with health and safety regulations, including food handling, hygiene, and cleanliness standards. Maintain a safe and pleasant environment for staff and customers.

Team Collaboration & Support:

• Work Well in a Team: Collaborate with other baristas, retail associates, and management to ensure smooth operations. Assist colleagues with tasks during busy periods.

• Assist with Special Events: Support promotional events, seasonal campaigns, and group catering orders as needed.

• Customer Feedback: Listen to and address customer feedback to improve service quality. Handle customer inquiries, concerns, or complaints in a professional and courteous manner.

Required Qualifications:

• Customer Service Experience: At least 1 year of experience in a customer-facing role, preferably in a café or retail setting. A passion for creating positive customer experiences and a friendly, approachable demeanor.

• Barista Skills: Experience working as a barista is required. A passion for coffee and the desire to learn new skills is essential. 

• Retail Experience: Previous experience in retail or sales is preferred, including familiarity with point-of-sale (POS) systems, cash handling, and product merchandising.

• Communication Skills: Strong verbal communication skills and the ability to engage with customers and team members in a positive, professional manner.

• Organizational Skills: Ability to multitask, manage time effectively, and stay organized in a fast-paced environment.

• Attention to Detail: High standards for cleanliness and product presentation. Ability to spot inconsistencies and ensure all products are well-kept and well-stocked.

• Physical Stamina: Ability to stand for long periods, lift boxes up to 50 lbs, and perform repetitive tasks (like cleaning and restocking) throughout the shift.

Desired Qualifications:

• Knowledge of Waterton Lakes National Park: Familiarity with the local area, outdoor activities, and the types of products visitors to Waterton might be interested in is a plus.

• Food Handling or Safety Training: Certification in food safety or handling is an asset.

• Interest in Sustainability: Knowledge or interest in sustainable practices (such as eco-friendly products and waste reduction) is a bonus.

• Bilingualism: Proficiency in French or another language would be an asset to this role. 

Benefits:

• Competitive Pay: Competitive hourly wage plus tips. Based on experience and history with our company. 

• Subsidized Staff Accommodation: Clean, safe, and private staff accommodations are available with this position. 

• Employee Discounts: Discounts on coffee, food, and retail items.

• Fun, Outdoor Atmosphere: Work in a stunning national park surrounded by nature’s beauty, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

• Team Environment: Be part of a supportive, friendly team where everyone’s input is valued, and the team spirit is strong.

• Flexible Hours: While this is a seasonal position, we offer flexibility in scheduling and the opportunity to enjoy time off to explore the park and nearby areas.

• Professional Growth: Training in barista skills, customer service, and retail management. Opportunities to develop and grow within the company.

How to Apply:

If you’re passionate about coffee, enjoy engaging with people, and thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced environment, we’d love to hear from you! Please submit your resume along with a cover letter explaining why you’re excited about working in Waterton Lakes National Park and why you’d be a great fit for this role.

Application Deadline: February 25, 2025
Interviews: Candidates will be contacted on a rolling basis.

We are an equal-opportunity employer and encourage applicants from diverse backgrounds to apply. If you're looking for an exciting, rewarding job where you can combine your love of coffee, nature, and customer service, we look forward to hearing from you!