Barista - Starbucks Coffee Company in Chicago, Illinois

About Starbucks Coffee Company

Starbucks Coffee Company is the premier coffeehouse chain worldwide, renowned for crafting the world's finest coffee one meaningful moment at a time. With thousands of stores across the globe, Starbucks creates warm, welcoming spaces where every cup sparks connection. In Chicago, Illinois, our Store# 20797 at Western & Waveland embodies this mission, offering a vibrant atmosphere for partners and customers alike. As a Barista, you'll be at the heart of creating these moments, brightening days with warm smiles, personalized orders, and exceptional service. Starbucks invests in partner growth through developmental experiences and industry-leading benefits, making it more than just a job—it's a career launchpad in the coffee industry.

Role Overview

The Barista role at Starbucks Store# 20797 in Chicago is perfect for those who thrive in fast-paced environments, love people, and take pride in their craft. No previous experience is required, making it an accessible entry point into retail careers and the coffee industry. You'll craft beverages, prepare food, handle transactions, and build genuine relationships with guests. Flexible hours accommodate early mornings, evenings, weekends, nights, and holidays, ensuring you can balance life and work. This full-time position offers immediate access to comprehensive benefits, positioning you for long-term success at Starbucks.

Key Responsibilities

As a Barista, your daily impact includes:

• Engaging with customers through clear, pleasant communication to discover and meet their needs.
• Preparing high-quality food and beverages according to standard recipes, including customizations like temperature adjustments or ingredient substitutions.
• Maintaining store standards for quality, cash handling, safety, and security.
• Performing diverse tasks per shift, from brewing coffee to restocking and cleaning.
• Creating meaningful moments that turn every shift into an opportunity to brighten someone's day.

Qualifications & Requirements

Starbucks seeks enthusiastic individuals with:

• No prior experience necessary—training provided.
• Availability for flexible hours, including early mornings, evenings, weekends, nights, and holidays.
• Regular, consistent attendance and punctuality.
• Ability to learn quickly, follow instructions, and request clarification when needed.
• Strong interpersonal skills, teamwork, and relationship-building abilities.

Starbucks is an equal opportunity employer, committed to inclusive hiring practices and reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities.

Benefits & Perks

Starbucks partners enjoy unmatched benefits from day one:

• Health & Wellness: Medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term/long-term disability, and backup care.
• Financial Security: 401(k) retirement plan with employer match, Bean Stock equity program, incentivized emergency savings, and stock discount via S.I.P.
• Education: 100% upfront tuition coverage for a first-time bachelor's degree through Arizona State University's online program, plus student loan resources.
• Time Off: Paid vacation (up to 40 hours annually), sick time, parental leave, family expansion reimbursement, and holiday pay.
• Exclusive Perks: Free coffee and tea markouts, Spotify Premium subscription, financial well-being tools, and DACA reimbursement.

Benefits comply with state laws, including Colorado Healthy Families and Workplaces Act equivalents, and are subject to collective bargaining where applicable. Visit starbucksbenefits.com for details.

Career Growth at Starbucks

Starbucks empowers your growth journey with structured developmental experiences. Start as a Barista and advance to shift supervisor, assistant store manager, or beyond. Many leaders began in entry-level roles, benefiting from internal training, mentorship, and tuition assistance. The Starbucks College Achievement Plan has helped thousands earn degrees tuition-free. With Bean Stock and 401(k) matching, your hard work translates to ownership in the company. In Chicago's dynamic market, opportunities abound for retail careers in the coffee industry.

Pathways to Promotion

Baristas often move up within months, gaining skills in leadership, operations, and customer service. Starbucks' commitment to partner success ensures you're supported every step.

Why Join Starbucks

Joining Starbucks means more than brewing coffee—it's about belonging to a purpose-driven community. In Chicago's Western & Waveland store, you'll connect with diverse customers, work with a supportive team, and contribute to a brand that values inclusivity and innovation. Enjoy premium perks like free coffee markouts daily, Spotify Premium for those busy shifts, and the pride of crafting moments that matter. Starbucks' equal opportunity policies ensure a fair, welcoming workplace for all, regardless of background. With competitive estimated salaries ($34,000-$42,000 yearly in Chicago), growth potential, and legendary benefits, this is your chance to elevate your career.

Role FAQs

Is experience required for the Barista role?

No, no previous experience is needed. Starbucks provides comprehensive training.

What shifts will I work?

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

What benefits are available immediately?

Health insurance, tuition coverage, 401(k) match, Bean Stock, free coffee markouts, and Spotify Premium start right away.

How much does a Barista earn in Chicago?

Estimated $34,000-$42,000 annually, based on local market rates.

Does Starbucks offer career advancement?

Yes, with clear paths from Barista to management and beyond, plus tuition-free education.

Ready to brew your future? Apply for the Barista position at Starbucks Store# 20797 in Chicago today and join a team that values you.