According to Starbucks' careers website, baristas are the face of Starbucks. The popular coffeehouse chain states that “They are an important part of our customers’ days, and experts in handcrafting delicious, perfect beverages.” Moreover, “Baristas personally connect and create moments that make a difference and work together to create a welcoming store environment,” says the company’s website. Starbucks argues that baristas are the ones who bring their mission and values to life “while proudly wearing the green apron.”

So what exactly is the company looking for in the people who greet customers every day? Well, Starbucks argues that you’d make a great barista if you are a “people person,” and enjoy meeting others, love working as a team and appreciate the chance to collaborate, understand how to create a great customer service experience, have a focus on quality and take pride in your work. So if you press apply for a barista position on their website, you’d be surprised how much importance they put on social and interpersonal skills. No wonder why, when you look at the clients they have to deal with on a daily basis.

On the other hand, working as a barista at Starbucks is still viewed as a first job for college students since the company is flexible with working hours and has many locations to meet your needs. According to Indeed.com, average Starbucks barista hourly pay in the United States is approximately $12.55, which meets the national average.

However, like many companies, Starbucks faced labor shortage in 2021 and announced it was raising their average pay up to $17 an hour starting late January 2022. Around the same time, the company also announced that it was investing in training, as well as redesigning its "Barista Basics" guide and adding more training time.