Introduction
Starbucks has over 17,000 locations across the United States and employs around 400,000 people. Making it a great place to find a barista job if you’re looking for one. Behind the counter of every Starbucks, there’s a team of baristas, crafting lattes, whipping up frappuccinos, and serving up smiles. But as you sip your favorite brew, have you ever wondered: how much does a Starbucks barista make?
Let’s delve into this question to uncover the compensation for Starbucks baristas.
Perks Of Being a Starbucks Barista
Before diving into the numbers, it’s important to note the basic structure of a Starbucks barista’s compensation. In addition to their base hourly wage, Starbucks baristas typically receive additional benefits and opportunities for advancement. These include healthcare coverage, tuition reimbursement, and even stock options. You can find the full rundown of the perks and benefits Starbucks offers here.
Hourly Wages
The starting hourly pay for Starbucks employees will depend on a few factors like location and experience. According to Indeed, at the time of this post, the average hourly wage for a barista is $15.35. However, this figure could fluctuate depending on factors such as the local minimum wage laws and the cost of living in a particular area.
Do Starbucks Baristas Receive Tips?
Yes, one significant perk of working as a Starbucks barista is the potential to earn tips. While policies may differ by location, many Starbucks stores allow customers to leave tips, which are then divided among the store’s staff based on hours worked. The amount of tips earned can vary widely, but they can be a great boost to a barista’s take-home pay.
Additional Benefits
As mentioned there are additional benefits offered for Starbucks employees. In addition to hourly wages and tips, there are multiple benefits that can enhance an employee’s overall compensation. These benefits may include:
- Healthcare Coverage: Starbucks offers comprehensive healthcare coverage to eligible employees, including medical, dental, and vision insurance.
- 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan: Baristas are eligible to participate in Starbucks’ 401(k) plan, which includes company matching contributions.
- Tuition Reimbursement: Starbucks employees have the opportunity to pursue higher education and receive tuition reimbursement. Eligible employees get the opportunity to earn a bachelor’s degree with 100% tuition coverage, coaching, counseling, and advising through Arizona State University’s top-ranked online degree programs.
- Stock Options: Through the Bean Stock program, Starbucks partners may receive stock options, allowing them to share in the company’s success.
Other benefits include, paid time off, parental leave, commuter benefits, and various perks and discounts exclusive to Starbucks employees.
Advancement Opportunities
Working as a Starbucks barista can also open doors to advancement within the company. Baristas can pursue career paths that lead to roles such as shift supervisor, store manager, or even positions at the corporate level. With hard work, many baristas have climbed the ranks to achieve leadership roles within the Starbucks organization.
Conclusion
While the exact amount a Starbucks barista makes can vary based on factors such as location, experience, and hours worked, one thing is clear: Starbucks is a great way to get yourself into the coffee world! Their benefits and perks can provide additional support for you, and help you grow within the company as well as in the real world.
The service industry is a great way to make money, find friends, gain new skills, and advance your career. If you’re interested in getting started in the service industry, find service industry jobs near you and start applying.
