Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Bean Probe • Barista • TDS (Total Dissolved Solids)

Espresso Machine

Term from Cafes industry explained for recruiters

An espresso machine is a specialized coffee-making equipment that's essential in cafes and coffee shops. It works by forcing hot water through finely-ground coffee under high pressure to create concentrated coffee drinks. For café workers, knowing how to operate an espresso machine is a key skill, as it's used to make popular drinks like lattes, cappuccinos, and americanos. Different brands include La Marzocco, Nuova Simonelli, and Rancilio. Understanding this equipment is crucial because it's the centerpiece of most café operations and directly impacts drink quality and customer satisfaction.

Examples in Resumes

Operated Espresso Machine to serve 200+ customers daily in high-volume coffee shop

Trained 5 new baristas on Commercial Espresso Machine operation and maintenance

Maintained and troubleshot Professional Espresso Machine equipment, ensuring consistent drink quality

Typical job title: "Baristas"

Also try searching for:

Barista Lead Barista Coffee Shop Manager Café Manager Coffee Bar Specialist Senior Barista Coffee Shop Supervisor

Where to Find Baristas

Professional Networks

Training Resources

Job Boards

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you train new staff on espresso machine operation and maintenance?

Expected Answer: A senior barista should explain their teaching methodology, including safety protocols, cleaning procedures, calibration processes, and how to troubleshoot common issues. They should also mention quality control standards and consistency in drink preparation.

Q: What's your process for diagnosing and solving espresso machine problems?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate knowledge of common issues like pressure problems, temperature inconsistencies, and maintenance needs. Should explain preventive maintenance and when to call for professional service.

Mid Level Questions

Q: How do you maintain consistent espresso quality throughout a busy shift?

Expected Answer: Should discuss checking grind size, dose weight, shot timing, and regular cleaning. Should mention adjusting for environmental factors like humidity and temperature.

Q: What's your daily cleaning and maintenance routine for the espresso machine?

Expected Answer: Should describe backflushing procedures, group head cleaning, steam wand maintenance, and end-of-day cleaning protocols. Should understand importance of regular maintenance for drink quality.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What are the basic parts of an espresso machine?

Expected Answer: Should identify main components like group heads, steam wands, portafilters, and water tank. Should understand basic function of each part.

Q: What signs indicate that an espresso shot is properly extracted?

Expected Answer: Should mention timing (20-30 seconds), color, crema appearance, and flow rate. Should understand basic principles of good extraction.