Barista Job at Starbucks Coffee Company in Knoxville, Tennessee

About Starbucks Coffee Company

Starbucks Coffee Company is the premier global coffeehouse chain, renowned for crafting the world's finest coffee and creating welcoming third-place environments. Founded in 1971 in Seattle, Washington, Starbucks has grown to over 38,000 locations worldwide, serving millions daily with ethically sourced beans and innovative beverages. In Knoxville, Tennessee, our Store# 10173 at Cumberland Ave & 21st St embodies our mission: to inspire and nurture the human spirit—one person, one cup, and one neighborhood at a time. As a Barista, you'll be at the heart of this mission, turning every order into a meaningful connection.

Role Overview

The Barista role at Starbucks in Knoxville is an entry-level position perfect for those who thrive in dynamic, customer-facing environments. No prior experience is required, making it ideal for students, career changers, or anyone passionate about coffee and people. You'll work flexible hours in a fast-paced store, crafting beverages, serving food, and creating moments that brighten customers' days. With competitive pay estimated at $32,000-$38,000 annually (based on local market rates for retail/food service in Knoxville, TN), this role offers immediate impact and long-term growth potential within a supportive team.

Store Location Highlights

Located at Cumberland Ave & 21st St in vibrant Knoxville, this Starbucks store serves the University of Tennessee community and local residents. Enjoy the energy of a college town while contributing to a space where regulars return for your warm smile and perfect latte.

Key Responsibilities

As a Barista, your day-to-day duties focus on excellence in service and operations:

• Engage with customers through clear, pleasant communication to discover and respond to their needs, remembering favorite orders for personalized service.
• Prepare high-quality beverages and food to standard recipes, including customizations like temperature adjustments or ingredient substitutions.
• Maintain store standards for quality, cash handling, safety, and security.
• Perform diverse tasks per shift, from stocking to cleaning, ensuring a welcoming environment.
• Work collaboratively as part of a team to deliver exceptional experiences every shift.

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 hours: early mornings, evenings, weekends, nights, and holidays.
• Ability to meet operating policies, with or without accommodations.
• Strong interpersonal skills, quick learning ability, and comfort following instructions.

Required knowledge, skills, and abilities encompass quick learning, team collaboration, relationship building, and adaptability in a fast-paced setting. Starbucks is an equal opportunity employer, committed to diversity and providing accommodations for disabilities.

Benefits & Perks

Starbucks partners receive industry-leading benefits from day one, setting us apart in retail:

• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term/long-term disability, and voluntary options for you and your family.
• Paid Time Off: Vacation accruing up to 40 hours annually (64 in CA), sick time (1 hour per 25-30 worked), paid parental leave, and holiday pay.
• Financial Wellness: 401(k) with employer match, Bean Stock equity program, discounted stock purchase (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 help and DACA reimbursement.
• Exclusive Perks: Free coffee and merchandise markouts, Spotify Premium, backup care, and access to financial well-being tools.

Visit starbucksbenefits.com for full details, which may vary by location or bargaining agreements.

Career Growth at Starbucks

Starbucks invests in your journey with developmental experiences, training, and pathways to management roles like Shift Supervisor or Store Manager. Many Baristas advance quickly, gaining skills in leadership, operations, and customer service. Our commitment to growth includes tuition-free education, empowering you to pursue dreams beyond coffee.

Pathways for Baristas

Start as a Barista and progress to Barista Trainer, Assistant Store Manager, or beyond. With global opportunities, your career at Starbucks is limitless.

Why Join Starbucks

Joining Starbucks means more than a job—it's a community. In Knoxville, you'll connect with diverse customers, enjoy premium benefits like Bean Stock and 100% ASU tuition coverage, and sip free coffee daily. Our culture values inclusivity, innovation, and impact. Whether you're passionate about craft coffee or people, this role offers purpose, perks, and premium pay in a supportive environment. Starbucks complies with all state laws, including Tennessee's employee protections.

Role FAQs

Is experience required?

No, we provide training for all new partners.

What shifts are available?

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

What benefits start immediately?

Health insurance, stock programs, tuition coverage, and perks like free coffee and Spotify Premium.

How much does it pay?

Estimated $32,000-$38,000 yearly based on Knoxville market rates, with opportunities for raises.

Is Starbucks inclusive?

Yes, we hire without regard to race, gender, age, disability, or veteran status, offering accommodations.

Ready to craft moments that matter? Apply for the Barista role at Starbucks in Knoxville today!