Firestorm Orientation

Every first Sunday at 2:00pm since Oct 2009

Firestorm Cafe & Books, a four-year old worker cooperative, is seeking individuals possessing a creative entrepreneurial spirit to join us! As a potential worker-owner, you are capable of taking responsibility for many aspects of the business. There is no boss or general manager. Instead we work together as a group, making all major decisions using a formalized consensus process. The internship period lasts nine months, during which time you are working toward co-ownership of the business. Compensation for interns is presently the same as for worker-owners and fluctuates based on gross sales.

Interns will be trained on basic barista skills, food preparation and plating and customer service. As the internship progresses, you will get a chance to learn more specialized skills, such as small-batch vegan baking, food-prep and bookkeeping. Interns are also trained on various management responsibilities. You will be expected to be able to attend the majority of our collective general meetings, which take place on Sundays at 4pm.

Applicants should possess good customer service skills and must be interested in joining us for a minimum of at least one year. Prior experience with baking, bookkeeping, food service, promo and publicity as well as cooperative decision-making is a plus.

Pay is based on gross sales and, at present, is very low. This is a labor of love; however, right now is an incredibly exciting time to join the project, as we are addressing big picture ideas and exploring a long-term strategic planning process. Please bring your resume! Individuals from historically marginalized backgrounds are encouraged to apply.

If you are interested in learning more about Firestorm Cafe & Books and applying for this position, please attend our orientation at 2pm on the first Sunday of each month at 48 Commerce St. (next to the Thirsty Monk). Parking at all downtown meters is free on Sundays. For more information, call (828) 255-8115 or visit our website. If you miss this orientation, we typically hold one on the first Sunday of each month.

10 Coolest Independent Coffee Shops Across the US
-- Zagat, 2011

#2 Best Slow Money Business in America
-- Slow Money Alliance, 2010