Barista Position at Starbucks Coffee Company in Chicago, Illinois

About Starbucks Coffee Company

Starbucks Coffee Company is the premier global coffeehouse chain, renowned for crafting the world's finest coffee and creating meaningful connections one cup at a time. With thousands of stores across the United States and beyond, Starbucks has built a legacy of excellence in the coffee industry. In Chicago, Illinois, our North Mayfair-Lawrence & Pulaski location (Store# 13439) embodies the brand's commitment to warmth, community, and exceptional service. As a Barista, you'll be at the heart of this mission, turning every shift into an opportunity to spark joy and build lasting customer relationships.

Role Overview

The Barista role at Starbucks in Chicago is perfect for individuals who thrive in dynamic, fast-paced environments. No prior experience is required, making it an accessible entry point into the retail and food service sector. You'll craft high-quality beverages, prepare food items, and deliver personalized service that makes customers feel valued. This position offers flexible hours, including early mornings, evenings, weekends, nights, and holidays, allowing you to balance work with your lifestyle while contributing to a team dedicated to excellence.

What Makes This Role Unique?

At Starbucks, Baristas aren't just servers—they're storytellers. Remembering a favorite order or offering a warm smile creates moments that matter. This Chicago store is a hub for local connections, where your interpersonal skills can shine and help foster a welcoming atmosphere.

Key Responsibilities

As a Barista, your daily duties will keep the store running smoothly and delight customers:

• Engage with guests through clear, pleasant communication to discover and respond to their needs.
• Prepare beverages and food to exact standards or customize based on preferences, such as adjusting temperature, ingredients, or substitutions.
• Handle cash transactions accurately while upholding store safety and security protocols.
• Perform diverse tasks per shift, from stocking to cleaning, ensuring compliance with operating policies.
• Maintain punctuality and flexibility to support team operations.

Qualifications & Requirements

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

• Maintaining regular attendance and punctuality, with or without reasonable accommodations.
• Availability for flexible scheduling, including early shifts, evenings, weekends, holidays, and nights.
• Ability to meet store standards for quality beverages, food prep, cash handling, and safety.
• Strong interpersonal skills, quick learning ability, and teamwork mindset.
• Capacity to follow oral and written instructions, seeking clarification as needed.

No experience? No problem. Starbucks invests in your development from day one.

Benefits & Perks

Starbucks partners enjoy industry-leading benefits that support your well-being and future:

• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term/long-term disability, and voluntary options for you and your family.
• Financial Wellness: 401(k) retirement plan with employer match, Bean Stock equity program, discounted company stock (S.I.P.), and incentivized emergency savings tools.
• Education Support: 100% upfront tuition coverage for a first-time bachelor's degree through Arizona State University's online program, plus student loan management and other opportunities.
• Time Off: Paid vacation (up to 40 hours annually, more in CA), sick time (1 hour per 25-30 hours worked), paid parental leave, family expansion reimbursement, and holiday pay.
• Exclusive Perks: Free coffee and tea markouts, Spotify Premium subscription, backup care, DACA reimbursement, and access to financial well-being resources.

Benefits comply with state laws, including Colorado's Healthy Families and Workplaces Act, and may vary with collective bargaining.

Career Growth at Starbucks

Starbucks is committed to your professional journey. Start as a Barista and advance through developmental experiences, training, and leadership programs. Many partners progress to shift supervisor, assistant store manager, and beyond. With tools like the College Achievement Plan and equity programs like Bean Stock, your growth extends beyond the store floor.

Real Pathways to Success

Our investment in partners includes mentorship, skill-building workshops, and opportunities to relocate or specialize in areas like operations or merchandising.

Why Join Starbucks

Joining Starbucks means more than a job—it's a chance to be part of a purpose-driven culture that values inclusivity and innovation. In Chicago's vibrant North Mayfair-Lawrence & Pulaski community, you'll connect with diverse customers while enjoying premium benefits like free coffee markouts and Spotify Premium. Starbucks is an equal opportunity employer, considering all qualified applicants regardless of background, and offers accommodations for disabilities. Competitive pay starts at the entry range for the role, based on location and experience.

Role FAQs

Is experience required for the Barista role?

No, no previous experience is needed. We'll train you to succeed.

What shifts can I expect?

Flexible hours including mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays to fit your schedule.

What benefits are available from day one?

Many benefits start after an introductory period, including health insurance, tuition coverage, 401(k) match, and perks like free drinks and Spotify Premium.

How does Starbucks support career advancement?

Through hands-on training, leadership development, and programs like Bean Stock and ASU tuition coverage.

Is this a full-time position?

Hours vary, but it's designed for those seeking substantial, flexible employment with growth potential.

Apply today to craft moments that matter at Starbucks in Chicago!