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SOC 9266 Elementary administration and service occupations

Coffee shop workers Salary

Median salary £12,170 per year (2025). Based on ONS ASHE data.

About this role

Coffee shop workers prepare and serve coffee, tea, other beverages and light food items in cafes, coffee shops and similar establishments. They operate espresso machines, serve customers and maintain a clean, welcoming environment.

Key responsibilities

  • Preparing espresso-based drinks, teas and other beverages
  • Taking orders and serving customers at the counter
  • Operating and cleaning espresso machines and equipment
  • Preparing sandwiches, pastries and light food items
  • Maintaining hygiene standards and cafe cleanliness

Qualifications and entry routes

No formal qualifications are required. On-the-job barista training is standard. Food hygiene Level 2 certification is typically needed. SCA (Specialty Coffee Association) qualifications are valued in specialty coffee.

Career outlook

Growing coffee culture drives continued demand. Specialty coffee skills and latte art can lead to higher-paying barista roles in independent and premium establishments.

Key skills

Barista skills Customer service Speed and efficiency Hygiene awareness Communication

Common industries

  • Independent coffee shops
  • Coffee chains (Costa, Starbucks, Pret)
  • Hotel cafes
  • Co-working space cafes
  • Mobile coffee units

Data coverage

SOC code 9266
Data source ONS ASHE
Years available 2021–2025
Estimated jobs 16,000

Median Salary

£12,170

Mean Salary

£13,476

Jobs (000s)

16k

Data Years

5 years

Salary Range (2025)

Median: £12,170P75: £18,832
P10: --P25: --Median: £12kP75: £19kP90: --

Estimated Career Progression

Based on salary percentile distribution for this occupation

Mid Level

£12,170

3-7 years

Senior

£18,832

8-15 years

Salary Trend (2021-2025)

Nominal growth: +-9.5%Real growth: -14.3%

Full-time vs All Employees (2025)

All Employees

£12,170

Full-time Only

£21,598

Full-time premium: +£9,428