Starbucks Barista Lead, Housing & Food Services

Job Description

Housing & Food Services has an outstanding opportunity for a Starbucks Barista Lead to join their team.

About this Opportunity

Reporting to Starbucks General Manager, the Starbucks Barista Lead is responsible for preparing and serving food and beverages in a Starbucks licensed store on the UW campus, in a leadership role under the supervision of the unit manager.

The work schedule for this position is Sunday-Thursday 11:15am to 7:45pm.

Key Responsibilities

Food Service Operations 30%

• Deliver exceptional Starbucks-branded customer service by providing prompt, accurate, and friendly service while educating customers on coffee and beverage offerings.
• Prepare and serve high-quality beverages, food items, and specialty products in accordance with Starbucks standards for consistency, portioning, and presentation.
• Monitor beverage preparation and product quality to ensure adherence to Starbucks standards and make corrections as needed.
• Operate and oversee point-of-sale transactions, including credit card, Husky Card, Starbucks app, and loyalty reward processing.
• Prepare, package, and replenish food and pastry items according to Starbucks specifications and customer demand.
• Maintain professionalism, punctuality, and consistent attendance while supporting UW Dining’s mission and values.

Cleaning, Food Safety, and Sanitation 20%

• Ensure compliance with Starbucks standards, Washington State health codes, and institutional safety and sanitation policies.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe workspace by participating in store cleaning, setup, sanitation, and closing procedures.
• Troubleshoot, inspect, and report equipment or operational issues involving espresso machines, grinders, and other food service equipment.
• Monitor inventory storage, product rotation, food handling practices, and temperature controls to maintain food safety and quality standards.

Administrative 10%

• Complete inventory counts, order and inventory documentation, receiving records, and stock management activities to support daily operations.
• Utilize CBORD systems for inventory counts, production sheets, recipes, and food preparation while maintaining required Starbucks certifications and training.

Leadership 40%

• Lead and support team members during shifts by assigning tasks, monitoring workflow, and ensuring operational needs are met.
• Act as a role model by promoting UW Dining values, maintaining professionalism, and fostering a positive, collaborative team environment.
• Supervise floor operations in the absence of management, ensuring efficient service, adherence to procedures, and smooth daily operations.

Required Qualifications

To be considered for this opportunity your application must demonstrate you meet both the minimum qualifications and additional qualifications listed below. Equivalent education and/or experience may substitute for minimum qualifications except when there are legal requirements, such as a license, certification, and/or registration.

Minimum Qualifications

Applicants who do not meet these qualifications WILL NOT be forwarded to the Hiring Department.

• Possession of, or eligible to obtain a Washington State Food Worker Card within two weeks of employment AND one year of experience preparing and serving food and beverage.
• Equivalent education and/or experience may substitute for minimum qualifications except when there are legal requirements, such as a license, certification, and/or registration.

Compensation, Benefits and Position Details

Pay Range Minimum:

Pay Range Maximum:

Other Compensation:

Benefits:

Shift:

Temporary or Regular?

FTE (Full-Time Equivalent):

Union/Bargaining Unit:

About the UW 

Working at the University of Washington provides a unique opportunity to change lives – on our campuses, in our state and around the world.  

UW employees bring their boundless energy, creative problem-solving skills and dedication to building stronger minds and a healthier world. In return, they enjoy outstanding benefits, opportunities for professional growth and the chance to work in an environment known for its diversity, intellectual excitement, artistic pursuits and natural beauty. 

Our Commitment 

The University of Washington is committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful and welcoming community for all. As an equal opportunity employer, the University considers applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, citizenship, sex, pregnancy, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, disability, or veteran status consistent with UW Executive Order No. 81.

To request disability accommodation in the application process, contact the Disability Services Office at 206-543-6450 or [email protected]. 

Applicants considered for this position will be required to disclose if they are the subject of any substantiated findings or current investigations related to sexual misconduct at their current employment and past employment. Disclosure is required under Washington state law.