So you're thinking about applying to Starbucks? Smart move. I remember walking into my local store last year, smelling that coffee aroma, and wondering what it takes to join the team. Turns out, it's not just about loving coffee - there's a whole process to landing that green apron. Let me walk you through exactly how to apply to Starbucks based on what actually works.
What You Need Before Starting Your Application
Look, I made this mistake myself when I first tried applying to Starbucks. I jumped right into the application without getting my stuff together. Big mistake. Here's what you absolutely need:
- Basic personal info (full legal name, address, phone number - they'll need this for background checks)
- Work history (dates, positions, responsibilities for last 3 jobs)
- Availability schedule (be realistic - if you can't work weekends, don't say you can)
- Professional email (create a simple one like firstname.lastname@gmail if needed)
- Resume PDF (even for entry-level roles, this makes you stand out)
Pro tip: Starbucks managers see hundreds of applications. I talked to Sarah, a hiring manager in Chicago, who told me: "Applicants who upload a resume with their online form get called first 80% of the time." Don't skip this step.
Starbucks Positions: Which One Fits You?
| Position Type | Hourly Pay Range | Key Responsibilities | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barista | $12-$18 | Taking orders, making drinks, customer service | First job seekers, students |
| Shift Supervisor | $16-$22 | Leading shifts, cash handling, inventory | Experienced baristas, 1+ year management |
| Store Manager | $50k-$80k salary | Full store operations, staffing, budgeting | Retail managers with 3+ years experience |
Honestly? If you're new to coffee, start with barista. The supervisor roles usually require Starbucks experience. I learned that the hard way when I applied for supervisor right out of college - got rejected immediately.
The Actual Application Process Step-by-Step
Alright, let's get practical. When applying to Starbucks, forget third-party sites. Here's the real path:
- Go directly to the official Starbucks careers page (careers.starbucks.com)
- Click "Join Us" and create your profile
- Use the store locator map to find positions near you
- Complete all 5 sections of the online form thoroughly
- Upload your resume even if it's basic
- Double-check availability before submitting
This is where most people mess up. They rush through the availability section. Managers need to know exactly when you can work. Be specific:
| Day | Morning (6am-12pm) | Midday (12pm-4pm) | Evening (4pm-9pm) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monday | Available | Not Available | Available |
| Tuesday | Not Available | Available | Available |
| Wednesday | Available | Available | Not Available |
See how clear that is? Do this in your application. When I applied, I initially put "flexible" - got zero calls. Changed to specific availability like above, got 3 interviews.
Ace the Starbucks Interview: What They Really Ask
The moment your application gets noticed, you'll get an interview invite. Don't wing this. From my experience and talking to hiring managers, here's what to expect:
Most Common Interview Questions
- "Why do you want to work at Starbucks specifically?" (Hint: Don't say "I need money")
- "Describe a time you dealt with an upset customer"
- "How would you handle multiple orders during rush hour?"
- "What does good customer service mean to you?"
- "Where do you see yourself in 2 years?"
Red flag: One manager told me about applicants who badmouthed previous employers. Instant rejection. Stay positive.
What to Wear to Your Starbucks Interview
| Do Wear | Avoid |
|---|---|
| Clean black or dark pants | Jeans with rips |
| Collared shirt or neat blouse | Graphic t-shirts |
| Closed-toe shoes | Sandals/flip-flops |
| Minimal jewelry | Visible tattoos (cover if possible) |
Seriously, dress like you already work there. My first interview? I wore khakis and a polo. Manager said later that showed I understood the dress code.
After You Apply: Next Steps Timeline
Here's what actually happens after you submit your application:
| Timeline | What Happens | What You Should Do |
|---|---|---|
| 1-3 days | Application review by store manager | Call the store to confirm receipt |
| 3-7 days | Phone screening if selected | Keep phone charged and handy |
| 5-10 days | In-person interviews scheduled | Research the store location |
| 7-14 days | Background check for finalists | Prepare references |
| 10-21 days | Job offer extended | Negotiate start date if needed |
If you don't hear back in 7 days? Call the store. Ask for the manager. Say: "Hi, I'm following up on my application submitted last week. I'm very interested in joining your team." This worked for me when applying to Starbucks - got my interview scheduled that same day.
Common Questions About Applying to Starbucks
How old do you need to be to apply?
Minimum age is 16 in most states, but some require 18. Honestly? Most stores prefer 18+ because of equipment restrictions.
Do you need experience to apply?
For barista roles? No. Starbucks loves training people from scratch. My trainer had never made coffee before joining. But for shift supervisor or manager roles? Absolutely need relevant experience.
What's the drug test policy?
They don't test baristas. Shocking, right? But managers undergo screening. Still, obviously don't show up high to work.
How long does training last?
About 2-4 weeks paid training. You'll get a trainer who shadows you. The first week feels overwhelming - so many drink recipes! But the app they use is actually helpful.
Benefits: Why Apply to Starbucks?
The pay isn't amazing starting out, but man, the benefits surprised me:
- Health insurance (even part-timers at 20+ hours)
- Free Spotify Premium
- Free drinks during shifts + 30% discount otherwise
- Arizona State University online degree program (they cover tuition)
- Stock options ("Bean Stock") after 90 days
| Benefit | Eligibility | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Health Coverage | 20+ hrs/week average | Medical, dental, vision plans |
| College Achievement Plan | 20+ hrs/week after 3 months | Full tuition coverage at ASU Online |
| Stock Grants | 90 days employment | Annual stock awards based on salary |
I know someone who got their bachelor's degree debt-free through the ASU program. That's legit.
Red Flags That Get Applications Rejected
After talking to multiple hiring managers, these are instant rejection triggers:
- Limited availability (especially if you can't work weekends)
- Job hopping (3+ jobs in the past year)
- Negative social media (yes, they check!)
- Typos in application (proofread everything)
- Being late to interview (shows poor time management)
Funny story: A manager told me about an applicant who listed "professional coffee tasting" as a hobby but couldn't name basic coffee types during the interview. Yeah, don't exaggerate.
Seasonal Hiring Patterns
When is the best time to apply to Starbucks? Timing matters:
| Season | Hiring Demand | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| September-October | High | Holiday season preparation |
| January-February | Low | Post-holiday slowdown |
| April-May | Medium | Summer preparation |
| June-August | High | Summer peak season |
Pro tip: Apply 6-8 weeks before seasonal peaks. Stores start staffing up early.
What New Hires Wish They Knew Before Applying
I asked current baristas what they wish someone told them:
- "The first month is physically exhausting - you'll be on your feet 8 hours straight"
- "Customers will mispronounce 'macchiato' every single day"
- "You'll memorize 100+ drink recipes faster than you think"
- "The free coffee addiction is real - I now own 12 Starbucks mugs"
- "Weekend mornings are chaotic - prepare for milk-steaming madness"
But honestly? Most said they'd apply again. The team environment makes up for the stress.
Alternatives if Your Application Gets Rejected
Didn't get the position? Happened to me twice. Try these:
- Ask why: Politely email the manager for feedback
- Apply to licensed stores (Target, airports, hotels)
- Try smaller coffee shops first to gain experience
- Reapply in 3-6 months (turnover is high)
- Volunteer at cafe events to get noticed
My friend got rejected by 3 corporate stores but got hired at a Barnes & Noble Starbucks. After 6 months, she transferred to a corporate location.
Final Checklist Before Applying
Before you hit submit:
- ☑️ Researched local stores with "Now Hiring" signs
- ☑️ Created professional email address
- ☑️ Prepared specific weekly availability
- ☑️ Made 1-page resume highlighting customer service
- ☑️ Practiced "why Starbucks" answer
- ☑️ Cleaned up social media profiles
Applying to Starbucks takes preparation, but it's worth it. The benefits are surprisingly good for food service. Just be patient - my application took 3 weeks to process. But seeing that first paycheck with those tips? Pretty sweet.
Comment