Barista - Starbucks Coffee Company in San Luis Obispo, California

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 places where communities connect. With thousands of stores across the United States and beyond, Starbucks employs passionate partners dedicated to elevating everyday moments into meaningful experiences. In San Luis Obispo, California, our Chorro Street store (Store# 05251) embodies this mission, serving high-quality beverages and food while fostering genuine customer relationships. As a leader in the coffee industry, Starbucks invests heavily in partner growth, offering unmatched benefits and career advancement opportunities that set us apart from competitors.

Role Overview

As a Barista at Starbucks in San Luis Obispo, you'll be the face of our brand, crafting beverages and creating connections one cup at a time. This entry-level role thrives in a fast-paced retail environment where no prior experience is required. You'll brighten customers' days with warm smiles, personalized service, and expertly prepared drinks. Flexible scheduling accommodates early mornings, evenings, weekends, holidays, and nights, making it ideal for students, parents, or anyone seeking dynamic work. Join a supportive team invested in your success, with comprehensive training to ensure you excel from day one.

Key Responsibilities

Baristas at Starbucks San Luis Obispo handle a variety of tasks to deliver exceptional service:

• Engage with customers through clear, pleasant communication to discover and respond to their needs.
• Prepare food and beverages according to standard recipes, including customizations like temperature adjustments, ingredient quantities, or substitutions.
• Maintain store standards for quality products, cash handling, safety, and security.
• Perform diverse tasks during shifts, adapting to the store's operational flow.
• Build lasting relationships by remembering favorite orders and creating warm, welcoming interactions.

Qualifications & Requirements

Starbucks seeks enthusiastic individuals ready to thrive in a team-oriented setting. Basic qualifications include:

• Maintaining 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 meet store operating policies and standards.
• Strong interpersonal skills, quick learning ability, and capacity to follow oral and written instructions.
• Teamwork mindset and relationship-building prowess.

No previous experience is required—Starbucks provides all necessary training. We are an equal opportunity employer, considering qualified applicants with disabilities or criminal histories in compliance with applicable laws.

Benefits & Perks

Starbucks offers industry-leading benefits that prioritize partner well-being and financial security:

• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Medical, dental, vision, basic and supplemental life insurance, short-term and long-term disability.
• Paid Time Off: Vacation accruing up to 40 hours annually (64 in California), sick time (1 hour per 25-30 hours worked), paid parental leave, and holiday pay.
• 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 via the Starbucks College Achievement Plan, plus student loan management and other opportunities.
• Exclusive Perks: Free coffee and merchandise markouts, Spotify Premium subscription, backup care, DACA reimbursement, and family expansion support.

Visit starbucksbenefits.com for full details, subject to local laws and collective bargaining where applicable.

Career Growth at Starbucks

Starbucks is committed to your professional journey. Baristas often advance to shift supervisor, assistant store manager, and beyond, with developmental experiences tailored to your goals. Our culture empowers partners through hands-on training, leadership programs, and global opportunities. Many start as baristas and progress to district or regional roles, leveraging skills in customer service, operations, and team management. In San Luis Obispo, you'll gain foundational experience in a vibrant community store poised for growth.

Why Join Starbucks

Choosing Starbucks means joining a purpose-driven company that values inclusivity, innovation, and impact. In San Luis Obispo, California, you'll contribute to a local landmark while accessing premium benefits like Bean Stock, 100% ASU tuition coverage, free coffee markouts, Spotify Premium, and 401(k) matching. We offer a supportive environment where your contributions create ripples of connection. Competitive estimated salary ($34,000-$42,000 USD yearly), flexible hours, and endless growth make this the perfect launchpad for your career in the coffee industry or retail.

Role FAQs

Is experience required for the Barista role?

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

What shifts are available?

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

What benefits do Baristas receive?

Health insurance, 401(k) match, Bean Stock, 100% tuition coverage, paid time off, free coffee markouts, Spotify Premium, and more.

How much does a Barista earn in San Luis Obispo?

Estimated $34,000-$42,000 USD yearly, based on market rates.

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.

Apply now to become a Starbucks Barista in San Luis Obispo and start crafting moments that matter!