I have this problem as a shift trying to give directions to the Drive barista. We want to keep them over there but we also want to avoid having people standing around. It's annoying, I understand that.

My usual direction is find something, wipe it down.

Cabinets, Trash cans, Fridges inside and out.
Clean the window if you can get your hands on the glass cleaner.
Sinks.

It doesnt always add much time but when I was the barista on drive it always made me feel a bit more productive.

Also, ask if theres any prep to do. A dead drive through is perfect for getting whips, carmels, sweet cream and mocha done.

i totally get what you’re saying. when i feel like i can’t be contributing by making drinks or cleaning more thoroughly, i try to contribute by keeping the mood up and entertaining my coworkers. the happier the staff, the happier the customers, the better the tips... i dance around and tell dumb jokes over my headset and tell my coworkers that i love them. (to be fair, i do actually love my team. they’re loving, caring, genuine folks and i love spending time with them.)

At my store we are a lot more versatile and fluid with our stations. If there is no one on CS duty, I tend to take the initiative first to sani any messy bar areas, then restock straws, cups, lids, napkins, and fridges. I’ll start cleaning dishes. I will also ask if there are any tasks that can be appropriately done for the time. I close a lot so at slow times we can knock out a lot of tasks and get out at a reasonable time.

What I’ll do is ask if I can make any back ups. My store typically needs mocha made twice a day as we’re busy. So I can do that or I’ll help the bar person with anything I can like making water cups. Also, wipe down the fridge and counter tops