Career profile · SOC 35-3023.01

Baristas

Prepare or serve specialty coffee or other beverages. Serve food such as baked goods or sandwiches to patrons.

Baristas prepare or serve specialty coffee or other beverages. Serve food such as baked goods or sandwiches to patrons. The role reports a median annual salary of $30,480 in the US and is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (about as fast as average). Entry typically requires a No formal educational credential, and shows low AI exposure (0.20 on a 0-1 scale) — the role's core work resists automation. The most in-demand skills for the role include comply with food safety and hygiene, educate customers on tea varieties, maintain relationship with customers, greet guests, handle customer complaints.

Median salary
$30,480
per year
Growth outlook
Average
BLS 10-yr
Education
No formal educational credential
AI exposure
2.0/10
automation risk

Top skills

comply with food safety and hygiene educate customers on tea varieties maintain relationship with customers greet guests handle customer complaints upsell products handover the service area set up the coffee area take food and beverage orders from customers maintain customer service

Frequently asked questions

What does Baristas do?

Prepare or serve specialty coffee or other beverages. Serve food such as baked goods or sandwiches to patrons.

How much does Baristas earn?

The median annual salary for Baristas in the US is $30,480.

What is the job outlook for Baristas?

The role is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (about as fast as average). Current US employment is approximately 3,796,000 workers.

How do I become a baristas?

The typical entry education is a No formal educational credential. Building a foundation in the top skills below will strengthen your application.

What skills does Baristas need?

The most in-demand skills for this role include comply with food safety and hygiene, educate customers on tea varieties, maintain relationship with customers, greet guests, handle customer complaints, upsell products. These are the skills O*NET identifies as most important for competent performance.

Will AI replace Baristas?

Our AI-durability model gives Baristas a score of 0.20 on a 0-1 scale (higher = more exposure). That places it at low AI exposure — the role's core work resists current-generation automation. It's a comparatively AI-durable choice within its field.

How hard is it to enter this field?

Baristas has low barrier to entry — generally accessible — you can enter with basic credentials and on-the-job learning.

Is Baristas right for you?

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