Chemex

Term from Cafes industry explained for recruiters

Chemex is a specific type of coffee brewing equipment that's highly regarded in specialty coffee shops and cafes. It's an hourglass-shaped glass container that uses special filters to make coffee. Baristas and coffee professionals value Chemex because it produces a very clean, clear-tasting coffee that highlights subtle flavors. It's often mentioned in resumes when candidates want to show their knowledge of specialty coffee preparation methods. When you see Chemex listed on a resume, it typically indicates that the person has experience in upscale coffee service or specialty cafes, as this method requires specific training and attention to detail.

Examples in Resumes

Trained staff in manual brewing methods including Chemex and pour-over techniques

Prepared specialty coffee drinks using Chemex, serving 100+ customers daily

Developed new drink menu featuring Chemex brewing methods to increase specialty coffee sales

Typical job title: "Baristas"

Also try searching for:

Coffee Shop Manager Barista Coffee Specialist Cafe Manager Coffee Trainer Specialty Coffee Barista Coffee Quality Control Specialist

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you design a training program for new baristas on Chemex brewing?

Expected Answer: A senior barista should discuss creating standard procedures, quality control measures, hands-on training sessions, and methods to ensure consistency across different staff members.

Q: How do you adjust Chemex brewing parameters for different coffee origins?

Expected Answer: Should explain how to modify grind size, water temperature, and brewing time based on different coffee beans, and how to train staff on these adjustments.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What are the key steps in making a perfect Chemex coffee?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain proper filter rinsing, correct water temperature, proper pouring technique, and timing for each pour phase.

Q: How do you troubleshoot common Chemex brewing issues?

Expected Answer: Should discuss identifying and fixing issues like incorrect grind size, improper water temperature, or incorrect pouring technique.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What equipment do you need to make Chemex coffee?

Expected Answer: Should list basic requirements: Chemex brewer, special Chemex filters, kettle (preferably gooseneck), scale, timer, and proper coffee grinder.

Q: Why is Chemex different from other brewing methods?

Expected Answer: Should explain that Chemex produces a cleaner cup due to its thick filter paper and slow brewing process, resulting in less oils and sediment.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-1 years)

  • Basic Chemex brewing process
  • Coffee grinding basics
  • Basic customer service
  • Understanding of coffee-to-water ratios

Mid (1-3 years)

  • Advanced brewing techniques
  • Coffee bean knowledge
  • Training other staff members
  • Quality control

Senior (3+ years)

  • Creating brewing procedures
  • Staff training and development
  • Menu development
  • Advanced coffee knowledge

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No knowledge of basic coffee-to-water ratios
  • Unfamiliarity with proper water temperatures
  • Lack of attention to detail in brewing process
  • No understanding of coffee freshness and storage

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