Nautical Star Barista, originally uploaded by Sodapopper.

The role of a barista is to have enough knowledge of the entire process of coffee to effectively prepare a desired cup of coffee. This knowledge includes the correct operation, maintenance and programming of the machine, grinding and tamping methods, extraction times, water temperature and quality, micro milk frothing, free pouring, latte art, roasting, coffee plant cultivation, drying methods, correct storage, renewable methods of disposal and recycling of the coffee and packaging used.

A barista can acquire these skills by attending barista training classes or on the job training.