TDS (Total Dissolved Solids)
TDS (Total Dissolved Solids) is a measurement used in cafes and coffee shops to check water quality for brewing beverages. It tells you how many minerals are dissolved in the water, which affects how coffee and tea taste. Think of it like a score that shows if water is "just right" for making great drinks. Baristas and cafe managers use TDS meters (simple testing tools) to make sure their water will produce the best possible coffee or tea. This knowledge is especially important in specialty coffee shops where water quality directly impacts drink quality.
Examples in Resumes
Maintained optimal TDS levels for specialty coffee brewing, ensuring consistent drink quality
Trained staff on proper water testing using TDS meters and quality control procedures
Implemented daily Total Dissolved Solids testing protocol across multiple cafe locations
Typical job title: "Baristas and Cafe Quality Control Specialists"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Baristas and Cafe Quality Control Specialists
Professional Organizations
Online Communities
Job Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you implement a water quality control program across multiple cafe locations?
Expected Answer: The candidate should discuss creating standard testing procedures, training staff on TDS measurement, establishing acceptable ranges, and creating documentation systems for tracking results across locations.
Q: What steps would you take if TDS readings were consistently outside acceptable ranges?
Expected Answer: Look for answers involving troubleshooting water filtration systems, contacting water treatment specialists, adjusting equipment, and implementing corrective measures while maintaining service quality.
Mid Level Questions
Q: How does TDS affect coffee extraction and taste?
Expected Answer: Should explain in simple terms how water mineral content impacts coffee flavor, ideal TDS ranges for coffee brewing, and how to adjust brewing parameters based on TDS readings.
Q: Explain your experience training others on water quality testing.
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate ability to teach proper TDS meter use, explain the importance of regular testing, and describe how to maintain testing equipment.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is TDS and why is it important in a cafe setting?
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain that TDS measures dissolved minerals in water and why this matters for coffee and tea quality in simple terms.
Q: How do you use a TDS meter?
Expected Answer: Should describe basic steps of using a TDS meter, including calibration, proper sampling technique, and reading interpretation.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-1 years)
- Basic TDS meter operation
- Understanding of acceptable TDS ranges
- Basic water quality testing
- Recording test results
Mid (1-3 years)
- Training others on TDS testing
- Troubleshooting water quality issues
- Equipment maintenance
- Quality control documentation
Senior (3+ years)
- Managing water quality programs
- Advanced equipment troubleshooting
- Staff training program development
- Quality control system implementation
Red Flags to Watch For
- Unable to explain basic water quality concepts
- No experience with TDS measurement equipment
- Lack of understanding about how water quality affects beverage taste
- Poor documentation practices
- No knowledge of proper equipment maintenance
Related Terms
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