Barista Job at Starbucks Coffee Company in Kennewick, Washington

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 Kennewick, Washington, our Highlands Center location (Store# 00377) embodies this mission by providing a warm, welcoming space where customers spark joy through every interaction. As a Barista, you'll be at the heart of this experience, turning ordinary moments into extraordinary ones.

Role Overview

The Barista role at Starbucks in Kennewick, WA, is perfect for individuals who thrive in dynamic, customer-facing 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 exceptional service that leaves a lasting impression. This position offers flexible scheduling, including early mornings, evenings, weekends, nights, and holidays, allowing you to balance work with life while building a rewarding career.

Why This Role Stands Out

At Starbucks, Baristas aren't just employees—they're partners invested in your growth. Enjoy industry-leading benefits from day one, comprehensive training, and opportunities to advance within a supportive team culture.

Key Responsibilities

As a Barista at Starbucks Highlands Center in Kennewick, your daily duties will keep the store running smoothly and customers delighted:

• Engage with customers through clear, pleasant communication to discover and respond to their needs, remembering favorite orders for personalized service.
• Prepare beverages and food to exact standards or customize based on requests, such as adjusting temperature, ingredients, or substitutions.
• Maintain store policies on quality, cash handling, safety, and security to ensure a premium experience.
• Perform diverse tasks per shift, from stocking to cleaning, in a fast-paced setting.
• Brighten days with warm smiles and meaningful interactions that foster connections.

Qualifications & Requirements

Starbucks seeks enthusiastic individuals ready to join the team. Basic qualifications include:

• Maintaining regular attendance and punctuality, with or without reasonable accommodations.
• Availability for flexible hours, including early mornings, evenings, weekends, nights, and holidays.
• Adherence to store standards for beverages, food, cash handling, safety, and security.
• Strong ability to learn quickly, follow instructions, and work collaboratively.

Required skills encompass interpersonal excellence, team-oriented mindset, relationship building, and adaptability in a bustling environment. Starbucks is an equal opportunity employer, committed to diversity and providing accommodations for disabilities.

Benefits & Perks

Starbucks partners receive unparalleled benefits that support your well-being and future:

• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term/long-term disability, and voluntary options.
• Paid Time Off: Vacation accruing up to 40 hours annually (64 in CA), sick time (1 hour per 25-30 worked), parental leave, and holiday pay.
• Financial Wellness: 401(k) with employer match, Bean Stock equity program, discounted stock (S.I.P.), and incentivized emergency savings.
• Education Support: 100% upfront tuition coverage for a first-time bachelor's degree via Arizona State University's online program, plus student loan resources.
• Exclusive Perks: Free coffee and tea markouts, Spotify Premium subscription, backup care, DACA reimbursement, and more via starbucksbenefits.com.

These benefits comply with state laws, including Colorado's Healthy Families Act, and may evolve with bargaining agreements.

Career Growth at Starbucks

Starbucks invests in your journey with developmental experiences, leadership training, and clear paths to roles like Shift Supervisor, Assistant Store Manager, and beyond. Many partners start as Baristas and advance rapidly, leveraging tools like the College Achievement Plan for long-term success in the coffee industry.

Training and Development

From hands-on barista training to ongoing coaching, you'll gain skills in customer service, operations, and business management, positioning you for retail careers nationwide.

Why Join Starbucks

Joining Starbucks as a Barista in Kennewick means more than a job—it's a chance to be part of a purpose-driven company that values inclusivity, innovation, and community. Enjoy competitive estimated salaries ($32,000-$42,000 yearly based on local rates), a supportive team, and perks like free coffee markouts and Spotify Premium. In the heart of Washington state's vibrant coffee scene, you'll contribute to moments that matter while building lasting relationships and a bright future.

Role FAQs

Is experience required for the Barista position?

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

What shifts are available?

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

What benefits do Starbucks Baristas get?

Health insurance, 401(k) match, Bean Stock, 100% ASU tuition coverage, paid leave, free drinks, Spotify Premium, and more.

How much does a Barista earn in Kennewick, WA?

Estimated $32,000-$42,000 annually, based on local market rates.

Is Starbucks an equal opportunity employer?

Yes, we hire without regard to race, color, religion, sex, orientation, gender identity, age, origin, disability, or veteran status.