Starting a career in coffee roasting can be an intimidating yet rewarding endeavor for coffee professionals. The learning curve is steep, requiring years of honing skills and gaining experience. However, various roles within the coffee industry can serve as stepping stones to becoming a proficient roaster. Gregory Koifman, CEO of Ethica Coffee Roasters, and Muneera Alafaliq, HR Specialist at Bunista Roastery, provide insights into these roles and the progression towards roasting. Key positions in a roastery include the director of coffee, head roaster, quality control specialists, production managers, production roasters, assistant roasters, and green coffee buyers. Transitioning into roasting often comes naturally for baristas and coffee shop managers who want to deepen their expertise. Starting a roasting career requires understanding different roasting machines, the science of roasting, and developing a discerning palate. Prospective roasters must decide whether to open their own facility or use a co-roasting space, considering the costs and necessary equipment. The type of roastery to work for should align with personal career goals, whether it's a smaller, producer-focused roastery or a larger business with wholesale clients. A successful roaster must have a strong work ethic, attention to detail, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment. Networking, attending trade shows, and gaining hands-on experience are vital steps in kickstarting a roasting career. Roasting offers numerous growth opportunities, and with dedication, any coffee professional can achieve success in this field.
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