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Coffee Shops Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Coffee Barista

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$14.50 - $16.75/hr

Experience working in coffee shops, retail, food service, or other customer-facing environments * Knowledge of brewing techniques, espresso machine operations, or café service standards

Barista/Bartender

Smyrna, TN · On-site

$13 - $15/hr

DESCRIPTION Just Love Coffee Cafe - Smyrna is looking for experienced and motivated baristas who love people and coffee! We're more than just a coffee shop - we're a community space built on love ...

Barista/Bartender

Smyrna, TN · On-site

$13 - $15/hr

Just Love Coffee Cafe - Smyrna is looking for experienced and motivated baristas who love people and coffee! We're more than just a coffee shop - we're a community space built on love, service, and ...

Local coffee shops and cafes are the backbone of any given community, and we're here to help manage the day-to-day tasks with a platform so intuitive, it's kinda like magic. The Odeko team is diverse ...

Just Love Coffee Cafe - Smyrna is looking for experienced and motivated baristas who love people and coffee! We're more than just a coffee shop - we're a community space built on love, service, and ...

Barista

Memphis, TN · On-site

$14.75 - $17/hr

REQUIREMENTS Just Love Coffee Cafe in Memphis is more than a coffee shop. It is a place where high-quality coffee and exceptional service bring people together. Our goal is to create an inviting ...

Barista

Mount Juliet, TN · On-site

$12/hr

Coffee shop Schedule: * Afternoon and evening shift * Monday to Friday * Weekend availability Supplemental Pay: * Tips Work Location: One location

Barista

Memphis, TN · On-site

$14.75 - $17/hr

REQUIREMENTS ABOUT THE COMPANY Just Love Coffee Cafe in Memphis is more than a coffee shop. It is a place where high-quality coffee and exceptional service bring people together. Our goal is to ...

Barista

Mount Juliet, TN · On-site

$13 - $15/hr

In this role, you will welcome customers into the coffee shop and prepare their coffee orders. Your goal is to ensure patrons enjoy their drinks and time at our shop. The ideal candidate is ...

Barista

Mount Juliet, TN · On-site

$13 - $15/hr

In this role, you will welcome customers into the coffee shop and prepare their coffee orders. Your goal is to ensure patrons enjoy their drinks and time at our shop. The ideal candidate is ...

Barista

Mount Juliet, TN · On-site

$13 - $15/hr

In this role, you will welcome customers into the coffee shop and prepare their coffee orders. Your goal is to ensure patrons enjoy their drinks and time at our shop. The ideal candidate is ...

Shift Lead

Memphis, TN · On-site

$15/hr

Just Love Coffee Cafe in Memphis is more than a coffee shop. It is a place where high-quality coffee and exceptional service bring people together. Our goal is to create an inviting space where ...

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Coffee Shops information

See Tennessee salary details

$8

$19

$39

How much do coffee shops jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for coffee shops in Tennessee is $19.35, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $20.29 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a coffee shop?

Coffee shops are establishments that primarily serve coffee, tea, and other beverages, often accompanied by light snacks or pastries. They provide a casual environment where people can relax, work, or socialize. Many coffee shops also offer free Wi-Fi and comfortable seating, making them popular spots for both leisure and business meetings. The ambiance, menu offerings, and customer service can vary widely depending on the shop's style and location.

What are some common challenges faced by coffee shop employees, and how can they be managed?

Coffee shop employees often encounter challenges such as managing high customer volumes during peak hours, maintaining quality and consistency in drinks, and balancing multiple tasks like operating the register, making beverages, and restocking supplies. Effective time management, teamwork, and clear communication with coworkers are essential for handling busy periods smoothly. Additionally, many coffee shops provide structured training and supportive supervisors to help employees develop these skills and adapt quickly to the fast-paced environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a coffee shop barista, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Coffee Shop Barista, you need strong customer service skills, basic math abilities, and knowledge of coffee preparation techniques, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with espresso machines, point-of-sale (POS) systems, and food safety certifications is typically required. Outstanding communication, teamwork, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are essential soft skills in this role. These skills ensure efficient service, customer satisfaction, and smooth operation in a busy coffee shop environment.

What is the difference between Coffee Shops vs Baristas?

AspectCoffee ShopsBaristas
CredentialsGenerally no formal certifications requiredOften require barista training or certifications
Work EnvironmentCustomer service, food and beverage prep, retail settingPreparing coffee, customer interaction, fast-paced environment
Employer & IndustryRetail food service, hospitality industrySpecialized role within coffee shops or cafes
Search & Comparison IntentLooking for employment or business info about coffee shopsUnderstanding roles and skills of baristas

While coffee shops are the business establishments that serve coffee and other beverages, baristas are the employees who prepare and serve coffee within these establishments. The main difference lies in scope: coffee shops refer to the entire business, whereas baristas are the staff members working behind the counter. Both roles are interconnected, with baristas being essential to the coffee shop's operations.

What are the job roles in a coffee shop?

Common job roles in a coffee shop include barista, who prepares and serves coffee and beverages; cashier, who handles transactions; and manager, who oversees daily operations. Other roles may include kitchen staff, cleaning staff, and stock clerks, all requiring good customer service skills and familiarity with coffee equipment.

What are popular job titles related to Coffee Shops jobs in Tennessee?

For Coffee Shops jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Coffee Shops jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Coffee Shops job openings:

Infographic showing various Coffee Shops job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,250 per year, or $19.4 per hour.

Coffee Barista

Knoxville, TN • On-site


Core Spaces
501 - 1,000 employees

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

71st of 205 rated real estate companies

Great coworkers

Good employer

Recommended by parents


$14.50 - $16.75/hr

Part-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

Who We Are
Core Spaces (Core) is more than a real estate company, it's a people company. Where building relationships is just as important as building properties. From researchers and architects to designers and operators, Core is made up of risk takers and dreamers who are on a mission to invent the future of living. Our six cultural values guide us every day and we strive to live them in everything we do: PUSH (Invent Better Places to Live), GRIT (We Got This), LIFT (Help Each Other Win), SHINE (Bring Your Full Self), UPHOLD (Never Break Trust), GROW (Always Get Better). Everything Core does stems from this culture of collaboration and innovation, and the drive to constantly improve the resident experience. This unique approach has led to creating spaces and services that are redefining the way people live.
What We Do
At New Here Coffee, we fuel campus energy, connection, and culture-one cup at a time. Located inside Core Spaces' student housing communities, New Here Coffee is a favorite stop for residents, classmates, and caffeine seekers alike. We pride ourselves on quality drinks, a welcoming atmosphere, and a vibrant community feel that enhances the student living experience. Whether students are rushing between classes, looking for a quiet study break, or hanging out with friends, New Here Coffee is their on-campus destination for great coffee and great vibes.
Benefits That Matter
  • A culture that provides you with a sense of belonging
  • Competitive pay that values your contributions
  • Generous PTO to disconnect or celebrate life milestones
  • An environment that provides you a voice to share your perspectives
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for access to confidential support services

Position Overview
As a Barista at New Here Coffee, you'll bring energy, consistency, and positivity to every shift. You'll craft drinks with care, create a welcoming environment, and support smooth operations while embodying Core Spaces' commitment to community and connection.
What You Will Do
  • Be the friendly face behind the counter, welcoming students and guests with energy and positivity
  • Craft espresso drinks, teas, and house specials with consistency and care
  • Learn and follow New Here Coffee recipes, quality standards, and café operating procedures
  • Handle payments quickly and accurately using the POS system
  • Keep the café stocked, organized, and clean-ready for that morning rush or afternoon pick-me-up
  • Support your team during peak hours to ensure smooth operations and great customer experiences
  • Help set the tone for the café by curating music and maintaining an upbeat atmosphere
  • Represent the Core Spaces and New Here Coffee brands with professionalism and friendliness
  • Ensure availability to work a minimum of 15 hours each week, as determined by the Coffee Manager.
  • Schedules may vary based on business needs.
  • Commit to working full shifts, which consist of a minimum of 3 hours per shift on-site at the property.
  • Flexibility is essential, including the ability to work additional hours, evenings, weekends, and overtime as needed.
  • Occasional travel may be necessary as needed
  • Perform all other duties and tasks as assigned by management
  • Must be able to complete all physical requirements of this role with or without a reasonable accommodation

Ideally, You'll Have
  • A passion for coffee or a willingness to learn quickly
  • Excellent communication skills and strong customer-first focus
  • Reliability, punctuality, and a positive, adaptable attitude
  • Comfort in fast-paced, busy café environments
  • Ability to lift up to 25 pounds and be on your feet for most of your shift
  • Reliable availability during weekday mornings, afternoons, and occasional weekends

You'll crush it if you have experience with
  • Experience working in coffee shops, retail, food service, or other customer-facing environments
  • Knowledge of brewing techniques, espresso machine operations, or café service standards
  • Involvement in campus events, student organizations, or hospitality-focused roles

Organizational Structure
Reports to: Coffee Manager
Direct Reports: N/A
Disclaimer
Please note that job responsibilities, reporting lines, and duties outlined in this job description are subject to change to meet the evolving needs of the organization.
As an Equal Opportunity Employer, Core Spaces celebrates diversity and is committed to creating an equitable and inclusive environment, which creates a sense of belonging for all employees. We do not discriminate and believe every individual should be proud of who they are and the community they represent.
Compensation Disclosure
The compensation range listed reflects the base salary or hourly rate that we reasonably and in good faith expect to offer for this role at the time of posting. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as education, experience, skills, certifications, seniority, geographic location, and business needs.
This role may be eligible for additional forms of compensation, including bonuses, commissions, stipends, or non-cash incentives, depending on position and performance. Benefits may include health insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, and other role-based offerings, subject to eligibility requirements.
All compensation components are subject to change based on business needs or market conditions.


What Core Spaces employees say

Pay

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