Barista - Starbucks Coffee Company, Chicago, Illinois

About Starbucks Coffee Company

Starbucks Coffee Company is the world's leading coffeehouse chain, renowned for crafting the finest coffee and creating meaningful connections one cup at a time. With thousands of stores across the globe, Starbucks has built a legacy of excellence, innovation, and community. In Chicago, Illinois, our stores embody the city's vibrant energy, offering a warm space where customers connect over premium beverages and fresh food. As a Barista at Store# 49695, you'll be at the heart of this experience, delivering exceptional service in a dynamic retail environment.

Role Overview

The Barista role at Starbucks in Chicago is perfect for individuals who thrive in fast-paced settings and love interacting with people. No prior experience is required, making it an accessible entry point into the coffee industry. You'll craft beverages with precision, engage customers personally, and contribute to a welcoming atmosphere. This position offers flexible scheduling, including early mornings, evenings, weekends, nights, and holidays, with opportunities for growth through Starbucks' industry-leading development programs.

Key Responsibilities

As a Barista, your daily tasks focus on delivering outstanding customer experiences and maintaining store excellence:

• Engage with customers through clear, pleasant communication to discover and respond to their needs, such as remembering favorite orders or customizing drinks.
• Prepare high-quality food and beverages according to standard recipes, including adjustments for temperature, ingredients, or substitutions.
• Handle cash transactions accurately while adhering to store safety, security, and operating policies.
• Perform diverse tasks per shift, from stocking to cleaning, ensuring a spotless and efficient store environment.
• Brighten customers' days with warm smiles and genuine interactions, fostering loyalty and community.

Qualifications & Requirements

Starbucks seeks enthusiastic individuals ready to learn and grow. Basic qualifications include:

• Maintaining regular and consistent attendance and punctuality, with or without reasonable accommodations.
• Availability for flexible hours that may include early mornings, evenings, weekends, nights, and holidays.
• Ability to meet store standards for quality beverages, food products, cash handling, safety, and security.
• Strong ability to learn quickly, follow oral and written instructions, and request clarification when needed.

Required knowledge, skills, and abilities encompass quick learning, interpersonal skills, teamwork, relationship building, and clear communication. Starbucks is committed to equal opportunity employment and provides reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities.

Benefits & Perks

Starbucks invests in its partners with comprehensive benefits that support your well-being and future:

• Health Coverage: Medical, dental, vision, basic and supplemental life insurance, short-term and long-term disability.
• Time Off: Paid vacation (up to 40 hours annually after introductory period), sick time (1 hour per 25-30 hours worked), paid parental leave, and family expansion reimbursement.
• Financial Wellness: 401(k) retirement plan with employer match, Bean Stock equity program, discounted company stock (S.I.P.), incentivized emergency savings, and student loan management resources.
• Education: 100% upfront tuition coverage for a first-time bachelor's degree through Arizona State University's online program via the Starbucks College Achievement Plan, plus other educational opportunities and DACA reimbursement.
• Exclusive Perks: Free coffee and tea markouts, Spotify Premium subscription, backup care, and additional pay for eight observed holidays. Visit starbucksbenefits.com for full details.

Benefits may vary by location and collective bargaining agreements, with compliance to state laws like Colorado's Healthy Families and Workplaces Act.

Career Growth at Starbucks

Starbucks is dedicated to your professional journey. From Barista, you can advance to Shift Supervisor, Assistant Store Manager, and beyond, with developmental experiences tailored to your goals. Our culture empowers partners through training, mentorship, and leadership programs. Many leaders started as Baristas, proving that growth is accessible with dedication. Leverage tools like Bean Stock and the College Achievement Plan to build long-term success in the retail and coffee industry.

Why Join Starbucks

Joining Starbucks means more than a job—it's a chance to create moments that matter. In Chicago's bustling scene, you'll work in a supportive team, enjoy premium benefits like free coffee markouts and Spotify Premium, and contribute to a brand that values inclusivity and innovation. With competitive estimated salaries ($34,000-$42,000 USD yearly based on market rates), flexible hours, and a commitment to diversity, Starbucks offers stability and excitement. Qualified applicants with criminal histories are considered per applicable laws. Ready to brew your future? Apply now.

Role FAQs

Is experience required for the Barista role?

No, no previous experience is needed. Starbucks provides training to succeed.

What shifts will I work?

Flexible hours including early mornings, evenings, weekends, nights, and holidays.

What benefits are available from day one?

Many benefits start after an introductory period, including health insurance, 401(k) match, and tuition coverage.

Does Starbucks offer career advancement?

Yes, with clear paths from Barista to management and beyond.

How do I request accommodations?

Contact applicantaccommodation@starbucks.com or 1-888-611-2258.