Barista Position at Starbucks Coffee Company in Lake Forest, Illinois

About Starbucks Coffee Company

Starbucks Coffee Company is the premier destination for coffee lovers worldwide, renowned for crafting the world's finest coffee one meaningful moment at a time. With thousands of stores across the United States and beyond, Starbucks creates warm, welcoming spaces where every cup sparks connection. In Lake Forest, Illinois, our Store# 00205 embodies this mission, offering a fast-paced yet rewarding environment for baristas to shine. As a global leader in the coffee industry, Starbucks invests heavily in its partners, providing industry-leading benefits and growth opportunities that set us apart from typical retail jobs.

Role Overview

As a Barista at Starbucks in Lake Forest, you'll be the face of our brand, creating moments that matter for every customer. No previous experience is required, making this an ideal entry point into the coffee industry. You'll thrive in a dynamic store setting, engaging with diverse guests, mastering beverage preparation, and contributing to a positive team atmosphere. Flexible hours accommodate various schedules, including early mornings, evenings, weekends, nights, and holidays. This full-time role offers competitive pay estimated between $32,000 and $42,000 annually, based on local market rates for Lake Forest, Illinois.

Key Responsibilities

Baristas at Starbucks Lake Forest handle a variety of tasks to ensure smooth operations and exceptional customer service:

• Engage with customers through clear, pleasant communication to discover and respond to their needs.
• Prepare high-quality food and beverages according to standard recipes, including customizations like temperature adjustments or ingredient substitutions.
• Maintain store standards for quality products, cash handling, safety, and security.
• Perform diverse tasks during each shift, adapting quickly to the fast-paced environment.
• Build relationships with regulars by remembering favorite orders and delivering warm smiles.

Qualifications & Requirements

Starbucks seeks enthusiastic individuals ready to join our team without needing prior experience. Key qualifications include:

• Maintain regular and consistent attendance and punctuality, with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Availability for flexible hours, including early mornings, evenings, weekends, nights, and holidays.
• Ability to learn quickly and follow oral and written instructions, requesting clarification when needed.
• Strong interpersonal skills, team collaboration, and the ability to build lasting customer relationships.

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

Benefits & Perks

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

• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Medical, dental, vision, basic and supplemental life insurance, short-term and long-term disability.
• Financial Wellness: 401(k) retirement plan with employer match, Bean Stock equity program, incentivized emergency savings, and discounted company stock via S.I.P.
• 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 educational resources.
• Time Off: Paid vacation accruing up to 40 hours annually (64 in California), 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 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 invested in your growth journey. From day one, you'll access developmental experiences, training, and pathways to advancement. Many baristas progress to shift supervisor, assistant store manager, and beyond. Our commitment to empowerment ensures you build skills in leadership, customer service, and operations while enjoying benefits like Bean Stock and tuition coverage that fuel long-term success.

Why Join Starbucks

Joining Starbucks as a Barista in Lake Forest means more than a job—it's a chance to brighten days, foster connections, and grow personally and professionally. In a supportive team environment, you'll take pride in crafting perfect drinks and creating welcoming experiences. With premium benefits like 100% ASU tuition coverage, 401(k) match, free coffee markouts, Spotify Premium, and equity through Bean Stock, Starbucks offers stability and opportunity unmatched in retail. Be part of a company that values diversity, inclusion, and your unique contributions.

Role FAQs

Is experience required for the Barista role?

No, no previous experience is required. We'll provide training to help you succeed.

What shifts are available?

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

What benefits do Starbucks Baristas receive?

Partners enjoy health insurance, 401(k) match, 100% tuition coverage via ASU Online, Bean Stock, paid time off, free coffee markouts, Spotify Premium, and more.

How much does a Barista earn in Lake Forest, IL?

Estimated $32,000-$42,000 yearly, based on local rates; individual pay depends on factors like location and experience.

Is Starbucks an equal opportunity employer?

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