Level Standard

Version v1.0· Published 1 Oct 2026

Add Barista Level Standard

The competency standard training schools assess against when issuing level certificates to their graduates.

# Add Barista Level Standard The Add Barista Level Standard defines the competencies a barista must demonstrate at each level (L1–L5). Training schools accredited by Add Barista assess their graduates against this standard and issue a digital level certificate that appears on the barista's profile. ## L1 — Foundation Barista - Dial in and pull consistent espresso shots under supervision - Steam milk to correct texture and temperature - Prepare basic drinks: espresso, americano, latte, cappuccino - Maintain a clean and hygienic workstation - Follow food safety and hygiene standards ## L2 — Competent Barista - Work independently at a single barista station - Adjust grind and dose for changing conditions - Produce basic latte art (heart, rosetta) - Handle a morning rush without supervision - Guide a junior barista on basics ## L3 — Lead Barista - Lead a bar during a full shift - Train junior baristas on dialing-in and milk technique - Consistently produce advanced latte art (tulip, swan) - Hit speed targets during peak hours - Manage inventory and opening/closing procedures ## L4 — Senior Barista / Trainer - Design and refine a coffee menu - Train and assess baristas up to L2 - Perform quality control on extraction and beverage consistency - Manage supplier relationships and green bean inventory - Lead cuppings and sensory calibration sessions ## L5 — Master Barista / Roastery Lead - Roastery-level quality control and blend development - Train and assess baristas up to L4 - Competition-level preparation and coaching - Lead cafe operations across multiple branches - Contribute to industry standards and education --- *This standard is authored and maintained by Add Barista. Schools must agree to the current version before issuing level certificates. Each certificate pins the version it was assessed against.*

About this standard

Verified training schools issue L1–L3 certificates. Accredited schools (extra admin review) can issue L1–L5. Each certificate pins the standard version it was assessed against, so a graduate's level is always traceable to the rubric their school used.