Barista - Starbucks Coffee Company, Union Station DC Center, Washington, DC

About Starbucks Coffee Company

Starbucks Coffee Company is the premier global coffeehouse chain, 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 customers connect over exceptional beverages and food. In Washington, District of Columbia, our Union Station DC Center location embodies this mission in a vibrant, high-traffic hub. As a Barista, you'll be at the heart of Starbucks' culture of connection, quality, and community impact. Starbucks isn't just a job—it's a platform for personal growth, inclusive employment, and shared success.

Role Overview

The Barista role at Starbucks Union Station DC Center in Washington, DC, is perfect for energetic individuals who thrive in dynamic environments. No prior experience is required, making it an accessible entry point into the coffee industry. You'll craft beverages, serve food, and create genuine connections with diverse customers. This position demands flexibility, with shifts that may include early mornings, evenings, weekends, nights, and holidays. Expect a fast-paced setting where your ability to multitask and engage warmly sets you apart. Compensation starts at the entry point of the range based on location, with opportunities for growth through performance and development.

Key Responsibilities

As a Starbucks Barista, your daily impact includes:

• Preparing high-quality food and beverages according to standard recipes or customized orders, adjusting for temperature, ingredients, or substitutions.
• Engaging customers with clear, pleasant communication to discover needs and deliver personalized service, like remembering favorite orders.
• Maintaining store standards for quality products, cash handling, safety, and security.
• Performing diverse tasks per shift, from stocking to cleaning, ensuring a seamless operation.
• Brightening days with warm smiles and meaningful interactions in a welcoming atmosphere.

Qualifications & Requirements

Starbucks seeks passionate team players with:

• No previous experience required—training provided.
• Regular, consistent attendance and punctuality.
• Flexible schedule availability for early mornings, evenings, weekends, nights, and holidays.
• Ability to learn quickly and follow oral/written instructions.
• Strong interpersonal skills, teamwork, and relationship-building abilities.

Starbucks is an equal opportunity employer, considering all qualified applicants regardless of background, and offers reasonable accommodations.

Benefits & Perks

Starbucks partners enjoy industry-leading benefits from day one:

• 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) retirement with employer match, Bean Stock equity program, discounted stock (S.I.P.), incentivized emergency savings.
• Education Support: 100% upfront tuition coverage for a first-time bachelor's degree via Arizona State University's online program, student loan help, and more.
• Exclusive Perks: Free coffee and tea markouts, Spotify Premium, backup care, DACA reimbursement, and family expansion support.

Visit starbucksbenefits.com for full details, subject to local laws and bargaining agreements.

Estimated Salary for Barista in Washington, DC

Realistic market estimate: $34,000 - $42,000 USD yearly, based on retail/food sector rates with buffer for tips and performance.

Career Growth at Starbucks

Starbucks invests in your journey with developmental experiences, training, and pathways to management roles. Many Baristas advance quickly, gaining skills in leadership, operations, and customer service. Access financial tools, equity like Bean Stock, and tuition-free education to build a long-term career in the coffee industry.

Why Join Starbucks

Joining Starbucks means more than brewing coffee—it's about belonging to a purpose-driven company committed to ethical sourcing, sustainability, and community. In Washington, DC's Union Station, you'll serve a diverse clientele while enjoying premium benefits like 401(k) match, 100% ASU tuition coverage, free coffee markouts, and Spotify Premium. Be part of a team that values inclusivity, growth, and creating moments that matter. Apply now for Starbucks careers in retail and coffee!

Role FAQs

Is experience required for Barista?

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

What shifts will I work?

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

What benefits include tuition coverage?

100% upfront for ASU online bachelor's, plus 401(k) match and Bean Stock.

Is this full-time or part-time?

Flexible, often starting part-time with full-time opportunities.

How does Starbucks support career growth?

Through training, mentorship, and internal promotions in a supportive culture.