Apr 6th, 2013
Firestorm Orientation
Every first Sunday from October 2009 until December 2013
Firestorm Cafe & Books, a five-year old worker cooperative, is seeking highly-motivated individuals possessing entrepreneurial spirit and collaborative sensibilities! Grounded in the principles of anarchism, our operation has no boss or general manager. Instead we work together as a group, making all decisions using a formalized consensus process. Your internship may last up to nine months, during which time you will acquire the skills and knowledge necessary to co-own our business.
Compensation for all workers is presently set at $3/hour, plus pooled tips. This is a labor of love. We hope to provide ourselves with greater monetary compensation in the future, but in the meanwhile we strive to supplement our pay with a variety of perks, including: shift meals, free coffee and tea anytime, free herbal medicine, significant discounts on books and merch and frequent educational opportunities.
As a new intern you will be trained to produce high-quality specialty beverages, prepare and plate simple foods, and provide customer service. As the internship progresses, we will assist you in acquiring more specialized skillsets related to food service and/or book retailing. All workers are expected to attend collective meetings, which take place each Sunday at 4pm.
Please bring your resume! Individuals from historically marginalized backgrounds are encouraged to apply.
10 Coolest Independent Coffee Shops Across the US
-- Zagat, 2011
#2 Best Slow Money Business in America
-- Slow Money Alliance, 2010
Job Description
Job Title
Barista Intern
Job Purpose
To acquire the foundational skills and knowledge necessary for the operation of a collectively managed cafe.
Job Duration
This is a three month long position. Upon successful completion of this three months, an intern may be invited to continue the internship for up to six months with an expanded job description. Upon successful completion of this extended period, interns may be extended the opportunity to become co-owners of Firestorm Cafe & Books.
Job Duties
- Prepare finely crafted specialty beverages;
- Prepare and plater limited food items;
- Acquire knowledge of Firestorm's book inventory;
- Maintain a clean, professional work environment;
- Provide exceptional customer service;
- Cultivate a safe(r), respectful and comfortable atmosphere for patrons and workers;
- Open and close the store;
- Participate in weekly collective meetings.
Required Skills & Qualifications
- Desire to participate in a collaborative work environment;
- Effective personal communication skills;
- Comfort with giving and receiving constructive criticism;
- Personal financial management skills;
- Availability for weekly Sunday meetings;
- Availability for 20 - 25 hours/week of work.*
* Availability requirements will increase in the event that you continue your internship beyond three months.
Desired Skills & Qualifications
- Barista experience;
- Customer service experience;
- Consensus decision-making or collective experience;
- Activist or volunteer project experience;
- Project management skills;
- Passion for cafe and coffee culture;
- Stable, long-term residency in Asheville.