barista operations lead, Reserve Cafe- Chicago Roastery

Starbucks Coffee Company is a globally recognized leader in the specialty coffee industry, renowned not only for its premium coffee but also for its commitment to community, innovation, and an inclusive culture. Established as a different kind of company, Starbucks has always prided itself on fostering connections through coffee, making its stores a place for community gathering and shared experiences. Starbucks Reserve plays a pivotal role within the Starbucks brand portfolio, representing a collection of unique flagship locations and Reserve Kitchens that celebrate the craft of coffee and elevate the coffee experience to new heights. The Chicago Roastery is an iconic flagship Reserve location that embodies the brand's dedication to quality, innovation, and customer engagement. This dynamic environment offers an immersive coffee experience, weaving together the tradition of coffee artistry with modern hospitality and culinary innovation. Starbucks offers competitive employment opportunities with benefits which include health insurance, paid time off, retirement plans, and educational assistance programs. This role is typically classified as full-time or part-time employment, with compensation reflective of the geographic location and experience of the candidate.

The Barista Operations Lead at the Starbucks Reserve Cafe within the Chicago Roastery is a critical leadership position responsible for supporting store operations and ensuring an exceptional Starbucks Reserve experience during scheduled shifts. The incumbent plays a key role in assisting operations managers and associates in managing daily store functions, delivering operational excellence through high-quality product and service standards, and embodying Starbucks' core guiding principles. This position requires a high degree of integrity, service orientation, and the ability to remain calm and effective under pressure. The Operations Lead takes initiative to anticipate customer needs, guide team members through training and coaching, and maintain a store environment conducive to legendary customer service.

In addition, the Barista Operations Lead is tasked with operational accountability including cash handling, adherence to health and safety policies, and compliance with alcohol service regulations in line with state and federal laws as well as company standards. This role demands strong communication and interpersonal skills to foster positive partner relationships and contribute to a supportive, inclusive team atmosphere. Candidates are expected to be flexible with scheduling, capable of managing physical demands such as carrying up to 35 pounds consistently, and experienced in retail or restaurant customer service environments. Starbucks values partners who are eager to learn quickly, multitask efficiently, and who bring a demonstrated ability to lead and inspire others. Preferred qualifications include bilingual abilities, a strong work ethic, attention to detail, and effective communication skills.

As part of Starbucks, partners—employees—gain access to comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, and vision coverage, paid parental leave, paid vacation accrual, sick leave, holiday pay, and participation in 401(k) retirement plans. There are additional perks like stock purchase programs, equity opportunities, financial well-being resources, and full tuition coverage for a first-time bachelor’s degree through Arizona State University. Starbucks upholds equal employment opportunity practices and ensures reasonable accommodations are made to support all partners. Joining Starbucks Reserve as a Barista Operations Lead means becoming part of a company committed to ethical business practices, continuous partner development, and creating memorable experiences with every cup served. If you are passionate about coffee, leadership, and delivering exceptional service in a vibrant, community-focused setting, this position offers a fulfilling career path with room to grow and inspire.