Barista Position at Starbucks Coffee Company in Waukegan, Illinois

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 Waukegan, Illinois, our Store# 09646 at Waukegan & Lakehurst 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 routine orders into memorable moments.

Role Overview

The Barista role at Starbucks in Waukegan, Illinois, is an entry-level opportunity perfect for those who thrive in dynamic, people-oriented environments. No prior experience is required, making it ideal for career starters or anyone seeking flexible work. You'll craft high-quality beverages, serve fresh food, and foster genuine connections with guests. This position demands flexibility with hours that may include early mornings, evenings, weekends, nights, and holidays. At Starbucks, we invest in your growth through hands-on training and industry-leading benefits, ensuring every shift contributes to your personal and professional development.

Key Responsibilities

As a Barista, your daily duties are varied and impactful:

• Engage with customers using clear, pleasant communication to discover and respond to their needs, remembering favorite orders to build loyalty.
• Prepare beverages and food to precise standards or customized specifications, adjusting for temperature, ingredients, or substitutions.
• Handle cash transactions accurately while upholding store safety and security protocols.
• Perform multiple tasks per shift, from restocking to maintaining a clean environment.
• Meet operating policies to deliver consistent quality in every product and interaction.

Customer-Centric Focus

At the core of the role is creating 'moments that matter'—a warm smile or personalized service that brightens a customer's day in our fast-paced Waukegan store.

Qualifications & Requirements

Starbucks seeks enthusiastic individuals who align with our values. 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.
• Ability to adhere to store policies on quality, cash handling, safety, and security.

Required knowledge, skills, and abilities encompass quick learning, following instructions, strong interpersonal skills, teamwork, and relationship building. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and comply with equal opportunity employment laws.

Benefits & Perks

Starbucks offers comprehensive benefits that set us apart in the retail and food sector:

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

Benefits may vary by location and bargaining agreements; visit starbucksbenefits.com for details.

Career Growth at Starbucks

Starbucks is committed to your long-term success. Baristas often advance to shift supervisor, assistant store manager, and beyond through developmental experiences. Our culture empowers you with training, mentorship, and opportunities to lead. Many partners start here and build thriving careers, supported by tuition-free education and equity programs like Bean Stock.

Pathways to Promotion

From Barista to store leadership, your growth is fueled by performance, feedback, and Starbucks' investment in talent.

Why Join Starbucks

Joining Starbucks in Waukegan 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 pay, flexible scheduling, and perks like free coffee markouts and Spotify Premium while making a difference daily. We're an equal opportunity employer, considering all qualified applicants, including those with disabilities or criminal histories per applicable laws. Reasonable accommodations are available—contact applicantaccommodation@starbucks.com.

Role FAQs

Is experience required?

No, we provide full training for all Baristas.

What shifts are available?

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

What benefits start immediately?

Many perks like insurance and tuition coverage begin after an introductory period.

How do I apply?

Search for Store# 09646 in Waukegan, IL, on our careers site.

Does Starbucks offer career advancement?

Yes, with clear paths supported by education benefits and leadership training.

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