Barista - Starbucks Coffee Company in Kalamazoo, Michigan

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 United States and globally, Starbucks creates warm, welcoming spaces where customers connect over exceptional beverages and food. In Kalamazoo, Michigan, our Store# 11851 at Stadium & Drake embodies this mission, offering a fast-paced yet rewarding environment for baristas to shine. As a Barista, you'll be at the heart of creating those sparks of connection through every cup served.

Role Overview

The Barista role at Starbucks in Kalamazoo is perfect for individuals who thrive in dynamic settings and love interacting with people. No previous experience is required, making it an accessible entry point into the coffee industry. You'll craft beverages, prepare food, handle transactions, and ensure store standards are met. Flexible hours accommodate early mornings, evenings, weekends, nights, and holidays, providing opportunities to fit your lifestyle while building a foundation for growth within Starbucks.

Why This Role Stands Out

Baristas at Starbucks don't just make coffee—they create moments that matter. From remembering a customer's favorite order to delivering a warm smile, your impact resonates daily. This position offers hands-on experience in customer service, food and beverage preparation, and team dynamics, all while enjoying industry-leading benefits from day one.

Key Responsibilities

As a Barista at Starbucks Store# 11851 in Kalamazoo, your core duties include:

• Engaging with customers through clear, pleasant communication to discover and respond to their needs.
• Preparing high-quality food and beverages according to standard recipes, including customizations like temperature adjustments or ingredient substitutions.
• Maintaining store operating policies, such as cash handling, safety, security, and providing consistent product quality.
• Performing a variety of tasks during each shift to support smooth operations in a fast-paced environment.
• Upholding punctuality and attendance standards, with or without reasonable accommodations.

Daily Impact

Every shift is an opportunity to brighten someone's day, fostering genuine connections that align with Starbucks' partner-led culture.

Qualifications & Requirements

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

• Maintaining regular and consistent attendance and punctuality.
• Availability for flexible hours, including early mornings, evenings, weekends, nights, and holidays.
• Ability to meet store standards for quality beverages, food, cash handling, safety, and security.
• Strong ability to learn quickly, follow oral and written instructions, and seek clarification when needed.

Required knowledge, skills, and abilities encompass strong interpersonal skills, teamwork, relationship building, and adaptability in a bustling retail setting. 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 set us apart in the retail and food sector:

• Health & Wellness: Medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term and long-term disability, and backup care.
• Time Off: Paid vacation accruing up to 40 hours annually (more in select states), sick time, paid parental leave, and holiday pay.
• Financial Security: 401(k) retirement plan with employer match, Bean Stock equity program, incentivized emergency savings, and discounted company stock 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 management and DACA reimbursement.
• Exclusive Perks: Free coffee and merchandise markouts, Spotify Premium subscription, and access to financial well-being tools.

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

Career Growth at Starbucks

Starbucks is deeply invested in your growth journey. Baristas receive developmental experiences, training, and pathways to advancement into roles like shift supervisor, assistant store manager, and beyond. Our tuition coverage via ASU Online empowers partners to pursue degrees without debt, while Bean Stock offers ownership in the company. Many leaders started as baristas, proving our commitment to internal mobility and long-term success.

Training & Development

From onboarding to ongoing learning, you'll gain skills in customer service, operations, and leadership, positioning you for rewarding careers in the coffee industry.

Why Join Starbucks

Joining Starbucks as a Barista in Kalamazoo means more than a job—it's a chance to be part of a global brand that values inclusivity, innovation, and community. Enjoy competitive pay, premium benefits like 401(k) match and free coffee markouts, and a supportive team environment. We're an equal opportunity employer, considering all qualified applicants regardless of background, and committed to accessibility.

Ready to craft moments that matter? Apply today and elevate your career with Starbucks Coffee Company.

Role FAQs

Is experience required for the Barista role?

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

What are the shifts like?

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

What benefits are available immediately?

Eligible partners access health insurance, tuition coverage, 401(k) match, Bean Stock, Spotify Premium, and free coffee markouts.

How does Starbucks support education?

Through the Starbucks College Achievement Plan, get 100% upfront tuition for ASU Online bachelor's degrees.

Is this a full-time position?

Hours vary, but opportunities for full-time schedules are available based on store needs.