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Entry Level Coffee Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Barista

Chicago, IL

$15.75 - $18/hr

They are also responsible for maintaining a clean and welcoming environment within the coffee shop ... Requirements, Qualifications & Physical Demands * Entry level position, prior retail experience ...

Barista

Chicago, IL · On-site

$15.75 - $18/hr

They are also responsible for maintaining a clean and welcoming environment within the coffee shop ... Requirements, Qualifications & Physical Demands * Entry level position, prior retail experience ...

ROUTE DRIVER - OFFICE COFFEE

Wood Dale, IL · On-site

$18.50 - $24/hr

* We are hiring immediately for full time ROUTE DRIVER - OFFICE COFFEE positions. * Location ... the foundation needed for entry level management opportunities. Essential Duties and ...

Be Seen First

Entry level Warehouse Associates/Quality Inspectors Needed - Carol Stream, IL Pay: 16.00 Shift ... Inspect returned products from stores (coffee makers, fans, etc.) * Disassemble and clean products

Sales Associate 882

Chicago, IL · On-site

$14.50 - $19.50/hr

Overview Crew positions are entry level opportunities with both full and part time possibilities to ... of our customer-favorites....coffee! * Excellence in cash handling, fuel transactions, and ...

Sales Associate 882

Chicago, IL

$14.50 - $19.50/hr

Overview Crew positions are entry level opportunities with both full and part time possibilities to ... coffee! Excellence in cash handling, fuel transactions, and promoting our rewards loyalty program.

Sales Associate

Chicago, IL

$14.50 - $19.50/hr

Overview Crew positions are entry level opportunities with both full and part time possibilities to ... coffee! Excellence in cash handling, fuel transactions, and promoting our rewards loyalty program.

Sales Associate

Chicago, IL · On-site

$14.50 - $19.50/hr

Overview Crew positions are entry level opportunities with both full and part time possibilities to ... coffee! • Excellence in cash handling, fuel transactions, and promoting our rewards loyalty ...

Sales Associate 912

Chicago, IL · On-site

$15.50 - $17.75/hr

Overview Crew positions are entry level opportunities with both full and part time possibilities to ... coffee! • Excellence in cash handling, fuel transactions, and promoting our rewards loyalty ...

Sales Associate

Chicago, IL · On-site

$14.50 - $19.50/hr

Overview Crew positions are entry level opportunities with both full and part time possibilities to ... coffee! • Excellence in cash handling, fuel transactions, and promoting our rewards loyalty ...

Sales Associate 912

Chicago, IL · On-site

$15.50 - $17.75/hr

Overview Crew positions are entry level opportunities with both full and part time possibilities to ... coffee! Excellence in cash handling, fuel transactions, and promoting our rewards loyalty program.

Sales Associate 882

Chicago, IL · On-site

$14.50 - $19.50/hr

Overview Crew positions are entry level opportunities with both full and part time possibilities to ... coffee! • Excellence in cash handling, fuel transactions, and promoting our rewards loyalty ...

Sales Associate 912

Chicago, IL · On-site

$15.50 - $17.75/hr

Overview Crew positions are entry level opportunities with both full and part time possibilities to ... of our customer-favorites....coffee! * Excellence in cash handling, fuel transactions, and ...

Sales Associate

Chicago, IL · On-site

$14.50 - $19.50/hr

Overview Crew positions are entry level opportunities with both full and part time possibilities to ... coffee! Excellence in cash handling, fuel transactions, and promoting our rewards loyalty program.

Busser

Palatine, IL · On-site

$18/hr

Refill water, coffee and other nonalcoholic beverages. * Remove dirty utensils and replenish, as ... Work experience as a Busser, Food Runner or other entry-level role in a restaurant is a plus.

Refill water, coffee and other nonalcoholic beverages. * Remove dirty utensils and replenish, as ... Work experience as a Busser,Food Runneror other entry-level role in a restaurant is a plus.

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Entry Level Coffee information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$9

$21

$44

How much do entry level coffee jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level coffee in Chicago, IL is $21.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $23.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level coffee job?

Entry level coffee jobs typically refer to positions in the coffee industry that require little or no prior experience. These roles often include baristas, café assistants, or coffee shop attendants. Employees in these positions are responsible for preparing and serving coffee drinks, maintaining cleanliness in the workspace, and providing excellent customer service. Entry level coffee jobs are a great way to learn about coffee preparation, customer interaction, and the basics of running a café. They can also be a starting point for career growth within the hospitality or specialty coffee industry.

What is the difference between Entry Level Coffee vs Barista?

AspectEntry Level CoffeeBarista
CredentialsNone required, basic knowledge of coffeeNone required, customer service skills
Work EnvironmentCoffee shops, cafes, retailCoffee shops, cafes, restaurants
Industry UsageEntry-level position in coffee industryFrontline role in coffee service
Common Search IntentStarting in coffee industry, basic coffee knowledgeCustomer service, coffee preparation skills

Entry Level Coffee typically refers to an entry-level position involving basic coffee knowledge, often in retail or coffee shop settings. A Barista is a specific role within coffee shops focused on preparing coffee and providing customer service. While both roles are similar, 'Barista' emphasizes hands-on coffee making and customer interaction, whereas 'Entry Level Coffee' may refer to broader entry-level opportunities in the coffee industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level coffee barista, and why are they important?

To thrive as an entry-level coffee barista, you need basic knowledge of coffee preparation, attention to detail, and a willingness to learn, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with espresso machines, grinders, point-of-sale (POS) systems, and basic food safety certifications is commonly required. Outstanding customer service, teamwork, and time management are essential soft skills for this role. These abilities ensure efficient service, customer satisfaction, and a positive work environment in busy café settings.

What are some common challenges faced by entry-level coffee shop employees, and how can they overcome them?

Entry-level coffee shop employees often face challenges such as learning to operate espresso machines quickly, managing a fast-paced environment during busy hours, and providing excellent customer service to a diverse clientele. To overcome these challenges, new hires should actively seek feedback from experienced coworkers, practice multitasking, and familiarize themselves with the menu and preparation techniques. Developing good communication skills and maintaining a positive attitude can also help in building strong customer relationships and easing the learning curve.

What are the most commonly searched types of Coffee jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Coffee jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Coffee job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, 28% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,684 per year, or $22 per hour.

$15.75 - $18/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

Barista Position Description

Part-Time, Hourly

The barista is responsible for serving all products with friendly, individualized attention towards each customer. They are also responsible for maintaining a clean and welcoming environment within the coffee shop itself. The barista fulfills any other duties the store manager may assign and represents City Coffee, LLC in a professional manner. Key requirements include, but not limited to: positive, friendly attitude; experience in retail, preferably making coffee and espresso drinks; flexible schedule; and works well under pressure.

Food & Beverage

  • Prepare and serve hot or cold beverages, such as coffee, espresso drinks, blended coffees, or teas based on drink recipes and procedures.
  • Describe menu items to customers and suggest products that might appeal to them. Answers customer questions regarding coffee blends, preparation, and product freshness.
  • Provide customers with product details, such as coffee blend or preparation descriptions.
  • Serve prepared foods, such as muffins, biscotti, bagels, sandwiches or salads.
  • Weigh, grind, or pack coffee beans for customers.
  • Maintain inventories by replenishing coffee bean supply; stocking coffee brewing equipment; maintaining supplies, pastries, and cookies for coffee bar.
  • Educates self on the various types of coffee, tea products, blends and roasts and finds new ways to update job knowledge by participating in educational opportunities (i.e., reading coffee, retail trade, and food service publications).

Service

  • Greets all customers with fast, friendly, personalized service and develops a rapport with customers by learning their names, favorite drinks and food items.
  • Proactively resolves customer complaints and report as necessary to the manager.
  • Take customer orders and payments in friendly manner either in person on via mobile orders.
  • Answers telephone in a courteous and friendly manner including, but not limited to, giving store greeting, directions to store location, and receiving and filling customer orders.
  • Enhances coffee shop reputation by accepting ownership for accomplishing new and different requests; exploring opportunities to add value to job accomplishments.

Environment

  • Clean or sanitize work areas, equipment, seatings areas and restrooms, including removal of garbage.
  • Stock customer service stations with paper products or beverage preparation items.
  • Keeps equipment operating by following operating instructions; troubleshooting breakdowns; maintaining supplies; performing preventive maintenance; calling for repairs.
  • Maintains safe and healthy work environment by following organization standards and sanitation regulations.
  • Maintains a positive, welcoming environment for all customers, employees, and guests.

Requirements, Qualifications & Physical Demands

  • Entry level position, prior retail experience preferred, but not required.
  • Runs errands, when needed, to pick up supplies and/or product.
  • Maintains positive morale and professional attitude.
  • Flexible schedule, including working overtime when needed. May be asked to work special events, as needed.
  • Excellent verbal and written skills.
  • Well-organized and detail-oriented.
  • Regularly required to stand, walk, talk and hear. Frequently required to use hand to finger motions, handle or feel objects, reach with hands and arms.
  • Regularly required to lift and/or move items up to 30 pounds.
  • Regularly required to handle food and hot beverages.
Employment Type: PART_TIME