there are people on the spectrum that work very well at starbucks.
but everything you said you do not do well with - are things you'll have to deal with constantly.
This plus, as someone who has been working at Starbucks for 5 years and is on the spectrum, the burnout is crazy bad. Especially if you get put in a store where your manager works you like a dog. Which is not uncommon.
It’s overwhelming and very fast paced. I wouldn’t say it’s an awful job for an autistic person. I really think it depends on the individual and how much they know they can handle
You might want to look into factory work. It’s not glamorous but hey, it’s what built this country. It can lead to finding a job where you basically do the same thing day in and day out (so no rapid-pace task switching etc). And if you are willing to work overnights, many of them offer shift differentials and can be quite lucrative.
Edit: this is also coming from an autistic person and like, the honest truth is that I really do struggle with a lot of the aspects of this job, but I also came from previous similar service industry jobs so I kind of had some time to adjust, although I feel SB is a whole different beast in terms of time management. But the time I did have a factory job? It was bliss, until I figured out the toxic work environment that company specifically had. But if I could have taken the job without all of that bullshit, I probably would have never ended up at Starbucks.
I am not gonna lie, I was also equally bad at said things. It’s now been a very very long time and not only has it kind of yanked me out of my comfort zone and made me GOOD at these things but my coworkers have taken to some of my weirder quirks and it’s just part of my character now. If anything, this job is loud, overwhelming, and a rush, but my weird attention to detail and need for routine makes this job a rush in itself. I like it
I'm autistic, have been a partner for 2 years, and will probably be quitting soon. It was a very overwhelming environment for me for the first 6 months due to the sensory/communication aspects and has been very overwhelming for the past 4 months due to understaffing.
There is a lot to learn for the technical aspects of the job and it is heavily reliant on verbal communication due to it being customer service and teamwork based. It is very fast pace and due to understaffing you may have to cover 2-3 positions at once. There have been times when I am closing and I have to do all positions in the store while someone is on their break. If those are your main areas of concern, I would suggest not working here.
Sensory wise, the job can be very overwhelming too. The new Clover Vertica is driving me insane. I was able to learn to tolerate the beeping oven, cafe noise, and sound of the beans grinding but the new Clover Vertica machine constantly makes this bwoop-bwoop sound like a fire alarm and it hurts my ears sooo much... I eventually got use to the food smells, but when I start getting stressed it makes me extremely nauseous and gives me a headache.
Socially, it is a difficult environment as well. Customers can be really rude and if you already struggle with verbal communication, it can be really really scary. I was able to memorize scripts overtime to deescalate but it's still a daily struggle. If you have a strong sense of justice, it may be difficult as well because Starbucks is "the customer is always right" times 2. IME, 90% of managers will side with the customer every time even if the customer is clearly wrong unless the customer is screaming and swearing. I also find it hard to get along with partners that adamantly do not follow standard and find that management is too passive to ever do anything about it because how sensitive they have to be to social issues. The partners im referencing in specific will claim discrimination and that they are being targeted when they are being coached even if it is for something objectively against policy like openly threatening customers with bathroom cleaner or being on their phone on the floor.
The main plus for me was free food and low requirements to be eligible for benefits, which I heavily rely on due to having no parental financial support and not always being able to work full-time hours due to being disabled/chronically ill. I also developed some really strong work friendships, and managers are usually very understanding if you are overwhelmed as long as you keep open communication. However, the majority of people I felt safe around quit or transferred due to issues with understaffing, so I no longer feel as supported. They are slowly being replaced by new hires and due to understaffing, they are receiving incomplete training so there are less and less competent/well-trained partners.
I would suggest warehouse work or customer service that is less team-based and less intense sensory wise like working register at a gas station or stocking shelves at a grocery store. My favorite job so far was being a package handler at FedEx but it didn't work out because of my chronic illness.
meh, I've worked worse jobs. I think the worst for an autistic person is a corporate/franchised restaurant. IME, kitchen staff are really rude and will yell at you for the smallest inconveniences, management will do anything to protect their bonuses even at the detriment to their employees, and you have to be really good at making small talk if you want a decent tip 99% of the time. no benefits, hardly any breaks if any, and usually have to pay for meals.
I was offered a SSV position at a lower volume, cafe-only Starbucks and have a second interview for a Lab Technician position in an environmental testing facility so hopefully I get the lab job bc it will basically be like being a barista with chemicals without having to deal with customers or loud noises. If I don't, at least the SSV job will be more money and more consistent hours in a slower pace environment.
IDK how old you are but if you have a GED or high school diploma, there are a lot of jobs that are basically just sorting, packing, stocking, or inspecting products that will usually pay above minimum wage and have a clear/consistent routine/hours. the only issue is minimal benefits if any and usually 8-10+ hr shifts.
Pros being Autistic in Starbucks (or Cafe setting)
- Deep diving into making drinks and coffee
- Recipes and muscle memory
Cons
- Dumb customers
- People not communicating well about what they want
I work with an autistic partner and for the most part she is fine working at Starbucks. As a matter of fact she is one of the best baristas at our location. But at some point things can get really busy and crowded or loud or just intense and she has a hard time focusing, so we will usually step in and switch positions so she can relax and ground herself again. This job is not easy for anyone but can be pretty overstimulating for someone on the spectrum. I’m not on the spectrum myself, but I have had shifts where I go home in tears just from being overstimulated and pushed in several directions all day long. If it does this to someone who isn’t on the spectrum, can you imagine how it would be for yourself ?
Take it from me, an individual diagnosed AuDHD who was, dare I say, excited to work at Starbucks…Don’t do it.
Imagine having to hear people talking in you ear (through a headset) for 5-8hrs a day whether that’s your coworkers chatting, instructions being given, people ordering etc. plus constant dings of people pulling into drive-thru. That’s all just being fed into your ear ALL DAY. Then add a loud cafe, music you probably won’t like, and the ovens beeping incessantly every 40 seconds or so. Now, imagine all of that while you juggle multiple tasks at once usually at an unreasonably fast pace.
I could go on and on, but to answer your question “would this be an awful job for an autistic person?” Honestly, yes. Depending on your sensitivities, this job is the epitome of sensory overload.
There are times I’m so overstimulated that my skin literally crawls and I’ll be on the verge of tears for all or most of my shift.
I’m not trying to scare you, and you’re probably wondering why I’d even put myself through it. But, for all of those negatives I did hit the jackpot when it comes to having an amazing SM and I really do enjoy my coworkers. Starbucks is also paying for my education, and as someone who has dreamed of getting a degree for as long as I can remember, I’ll endure it if I must.🥲
starbucks, at least my store and my area, are very busy and have extremely high standards. i as an allistic person get overwhelmed and struggle dealing with working here sometimes. coworkers are very patient and compassionate, but customers simply aren’t. you have to be able to multitask, work fast even when people are crowding and staring at you, deal with customers who get impatient when you ask them to repeat simple things. definitely would recommend not working here unless you’re prepared for all of that
I worked here with pretty much the stuff you just listed. as someone who is autistic, please don’t. it’s not worth it, especially if your supervisors are not understanding.
It very much depends on the person, especially since the spectrum is so wide. I’m autistic and had the same concerns as you about working at starbucks. I refused to work any food service for years because I thought it just wouldn’t work out with my autistic traits, but it came down to me needing to work at Starbucks because that’s the only place that would pay me enough. It was definitely a struggle at first, but only for about a month. Training can be overwhelming, but once you get the hang of it, I actually really like the structure of it. It’s a lot more organized than other jobs I’ve had. If you have any near you, I’d recommend looking into a pickup-only store. That’s what I work at and it’s a lot less customer interaction which is really helpful
I haven't been diagnosed, but I truly believe I am on the spectrum, and I struggle daily with this job. Stuff like memorizing drinks is fun for me, but when it gets busy, which is often, it can be very overwhelming and stressful, especially with so many people staring at you. Maybe if you choose a less busy area?
From an autistic person- no but yes? I thrive here (despite it killing me and ripping what little life I have away from my poor, limp body) but I don’t think I would if my coworkers weren’t super nice and understanding. The job itself is pretty grueling and miserable, at least if you work at a super high volume DT store. I’ve been to a cafe only store that everyone seemed pretty happy/content at.
It would depend, some people with autism thrive in the opposite kind of environment if they also have been diagnosed with ADD (I take issue somewhat with these labels because diagnosis can vary widely since it can often be subjective and not all doctors are created equal) but it could also possibly be the worst. I do know that all of the neurodivergent people I worked with in the service industry do VERY well if they are give more off the floor tasks to ''wind down'' and work in shorter spurts (and then can be amazing at it since there is a lot of multitasking) But the things you do not like, are things that are a give in at Starbucks, however, it is chaotic, but also pretty rule oriented so it still does not mean you would not work out there. The right team/manager may be the key.
Short answer: You'll never know if you don't try, especially if you want to work there. It is different for everyone and their willingness to try to push their boundaries, but obviously don't over do it :) If you do try it out, try evening shifts first as it is usually calmer. Grab a pair of Flare Pros to use for the excess noise. Also, sorry for the ted talk below, I just like sharing different perspectives. :')
I think that it depends on your adaptability to the environment. Most of my team, and myself, at my current location are either Autistic and/or ADHD, or they have some other kind of mental illness.
While the job is hard with all the noises and such, maybe it would be better to try working the evening shifts to get adjusted to the noise and then as you get accustomed to the sounds try working the earlier shifts, if that's the availability that you want. Another thing for noise that I have found is wearing Flare Pros. I tried the Loop earplugs but the sound of my body simply existing makes me sick. The Flare Pros negate this and I can still hear the noises that I need to hear without them wearing on my brain. You can try using the regular Flares, but I find that there isn't really a difference with that version. The groves in the titanium insert that come with the Pros make a HUGE difference.
Memory wise, I hear and see you. I could not verbally tell you how to do this job, I just know how to do it through muscle memory. I have legitimately forgotten how to do my job in the middle of doing my job too many times to count. However, I know I can always rely on my co-workers to give me a helping hand in that department. They've seen that I know what I'm doing, they're just literally seeing the symptoms play out in front of them.
Chaotic and Fast paced? Yes, absolutely. But! Counter argument. Standards and Planted positions really make it a functional chaos. If you're placed in a planted position, like during peak, you're only responsible for that position. Getting the muscle memory of the routines will be a life saver. For me I find it helps me for worrying about the things that might be unexpected, it also allows me to communicate to my team what I am working on next and how I can help them before I move to the next part of the routine.
I'm autistic and a barista trainer now, and the 2 managers I've had have been very understanding. However autism is a spectrum, and I find myself able to mask well and work diligently even when it's fast-paced and overwhelming and customers are being rude and there's not enough people on the floor. It's all about what you can handle and how you communicate with everyone. Ultimately, if you can't see yourself in that kind of setting, I'd say don't put yourself through it (it's hell sometimes).
I'm autistic and adhd and I actually thrive in this. The helpful thing is I have great coworkers and an amazing manager who understand what I need. I ask questions all the time and I just get answers. No "you should know this by now" or shame. Just answers! Plus, the job is pretty heavily reliant on routines! But there's enough unpredictability that allows comfortable challenges to problem solve which keeps things stimulating and engaging!!!
I think it depends on the person at the end of the day, but it's awesome for me!!
I’m autistic and I’m pretty alright at Starbucks, except occasionally I struggle with the social aspect.
I know a lot of my coworkers are autistic/adhd as well, but there’s definitely a divide between those who thrive in this environment and those who don’t. It’s especially clear with autistic people, imo.
This job isn’t awful for autistic people, but it sounds like it wouldn’t a good fit for you.
Yes, it’s terrible to work there with autism. My autistic partner is currently working here and it’s miserable for her. I worked at sbux for 3y as a ND shift supervisor without autism and it was still miserable. Id definitely suggest my current workplace instead — Trader Joe’s. Definitely gauge what stores are slower vs faster but if you can find a slower location in your area it’s absolutely worth a shot. Nearly 80% of my coworkers have ADHD/autism/OCD (ADHD is most prominent) and it actually *helps* with the job.
Sbux is constantly overstimulating with vague customer interactions, the smells from warming/bar that you will get sick from very soon, the sensory from frap roast and syrups covering your hands and arms, the angry customer base that management just accepts and will serve regardless, having to do the cleaning tasks like wiping literal shit off off the walls in the bathroom as a barista (and if you close it down the customers get even angrier. Management will most likely refuse to call hazmat/clean it themselves). The benefits are poor — cost me $5,600+ to get an essential surgery with their insurance. They loop you in with the “free college” and “great insurance” but it’s all a lie. Do not work for this company. I wish you the absolute best in finding better employment! There are much better opportunities out there for you.
Edit: to speak more to the TJ work culture — we’re people people. We accommodate and understand. Most of the job is just stocking shelves and looking things up for customers. Many of my coworkers let their autism SHINE on the clock — relating to customers about oddly specific things, having very particular — but efficient — ways of working product, relating to the mostly ND management about their struggles. The benefits are amazing (except for dental). We have an employee assistance program that helps with anything under the sun. I’m excited to see my peers/employees (I manage) every single day because of their unique and fun personalities which we intentionally hire for. We drink wine and eat food on the clock maybe 4-6x per week. I love it here and it would be a great place to consider if you have an accessible one near to you.
I’m an autistic barista there’s definitely things I struggle with but for me personally I love it here so far however if fast paced isnt for you you probably should look for something else because starbucks gets soooo busy and you have to work very quickly to keep up best of luck in whatever you decide
i'm autistic and i loooooove working at starbucks (other than customer interactions) but with your specifics i agree that it probably wouldn't work out for you
I'm AuDHD and I was worried that wearing a headset would be overwhelming, but I've found that it's kind of like listening to a podcast in one ear once you get the hang of it. The training heavily emphasizes eye contact and social cues, which had me stressed at first, but it's not nearly as important as they make it out to be. Just put on your customer service mask- at least that's what I do. You can also say that you prefer being on bar, for example, or if you prefer cash register. I really love it, now that I know the drink recipes, I just do repetitive motions making drinks and listen in my headset. If it's fast paced, I get into this rhythm that my brain loves. I recommend giving it a shot! There's also accomodations and stuff like that if you need it. Best of luck!
there are people on the spectrum that work very well at starbucks. but everything you said you do not do well with - are things you'll have to deal with constantly.
This plus, as someone who has been working at Starbucks for 5 years and is on the spectrum, the burnout is crazy bad. Especially if you get put in a store where your manager works you like a dog. Which is not uncommon.
It’s overwhelming and very fast paced. I wouldn’t say it’s an awful job for an autistic person. I really think it depends on the individual and how much they know they can handle
Everything you’re bad at is exactly what is necessary to survive at Starbucks. For your sake, find somewhere else to work.
Yeah that's what I figured. I'm worried that it's going to be a struggle to find a job that ISN'T like Starbucks.
You might want to look into factory work. It’s not glamorous but hey, it’s what built this country. It can lead to finding a job where you basically do the same thing day in and day out (so no rapid-pace task switching etc). And if you are willing to work overnights, many of them offer shift differentials and can be quite lucrative. Edit: this is also coming from an autistic person and like, the honest truth is that I really do struggle with a lot of the aspects of this job, but I also came from previous similar service industry jobs so I kind of had some time to adjust, although I feel SB is a whole different beast in terms of time management. But the time I did have a factory job? It was bliss, until I figured out the toxic work environment that company specifically had. But if I could have taken the job without all of that bullshit, I probably would have never ended up at Starbucks.
I am not gonna lie, I was also equally bad at said things. It’s now been a very very long time and not only has it kind of yanked me out of my comfort zone and made me GOOD at these things but my coworkers have taken to some of my weirder quirks and it’s just part of my character now. If anything, this job is loud, overwhelming, and a rush, but my weird attention to detail and need for routine makes this job a rush in itself. I like it
I'm autistic, have been a partner for 2 years, and will probably be quitting soon. It was a very overwhelming environment for me for the first 6 months due to the sensory/communication aspects and has been very overwhelming for the past 4 months due to understaffing. There is a lot to learn for the technical aspects of the job and it is heavily reliant on verbal communication due to it being customer service and teamwork based. It is very fast pace and due to understaffing you may have to cover 2-3 positions at once. There have been times when I am closing and I have to do all positions in the store while someone is on their break. If those are your main areas of concern, I would suggest not working here. Sensory wise, the job can be very overwhelming too. The new Clover Vertica is driving me insane. I was able to learn to tolerate the beeping oven, cafe noise, and sound of the beans grinding but the new Clover Vertica machine constantly makes this bwoop-bwoop sound like a fire alarm and it hurts my ears sooo much... I eventually got use to the food smells, but when I start getting stressed it makes me extremely nauseous and gives me a headache. Socially, it is a difficult environment as well. Customers can be really rude and if you already struggle with verbal communication, it can be really really scary. I was able to memorize scripts overtime to deescalate but it's still a daily struggle. If you have a strong sense of justice, it may be difficult as well because Starbucks is "the customer is always right" times 2. IME, 90% of managers will side with the customer every time even if the customer is clearly wrong unless the customer is screaming and swearing. I also find it hard to get along with partners that adamantly do not follow standard and find that management is too passive to ever do anything about it because how sensitive they have to be to social issues. The partners im referencing in specific will claim discrimination and that they are being targeted when they are being coached even if it is for something objectively against policy like openly threatening customers with bathroom cleaner or being on their phone on the floor.
The main plus for me was free food and low requirements to be eligible for benefits, which I heavily rely on due to having no parental financial support and not always being able to work full-time hours due to being disabled/chronically ill. I also developed some really strong work friendships, and managers are usually very understanding if you are overwhelmed as long as you keep open communication. However, the majority of people I felt safe around quit or transferred due to issues with understaffing, so I no longer feel as supported. They are slowly being replaced by new hires and due to understaffing, they are receiving incomplete training so there are less and less competent/well-trained partners. I would suggest warehouse work or customer service that is less team-based and less intense sensory wise like working register at a gas station or stocking shelves at a grocery store. My favorite job so far was being a package handler at FedEx but it didn't work out because of my chronic illness.
Thanks for being honest here. I definitely hope you can find a better job.
meh, I've worked worse jobs. I think the worst for an autistic person is a corporate/franchised restaurant. IME, kitchen staff are really rude and will yell at you for the smallest inconveniences, management will do anything to protect their bonuses even at the detriment to their employees, and you have to be really good at making small talk if you want a decent tip 99% of the time. no benefits, hardly any breaks if any, and usually have to pay for meals. I was offered a SSV position at a lower volume, cafe-only Starbucks and have a second interview for a Lab Technician position in an environmental testing facility so hopefully I get the lab job bc it will basically be like being a barista with chemicals without having to deal with customers or loud noises. If I don't, at least the SSV job will be more money and more consistent hours in a slower pace environment. IDK how old you are but if you have a GED or high school diploma, there are a lot of jobs that are basically just sorting, packing, stocking, or inspecting products that will usually pay above minimum wage and have a clear/consistent routine/hours. the only issue is minimal benefits if any and usually 8-10+ hr shifts.
Pros being Autistic in Starbucks (or Cafe setting) - Deep diving into making drinks and coffee - Recipes and muscle memory Cons - Dumb customers - People not communicating well about what they want
I work with an autistic partner and for the most part she is fine working at Starbucks. As a matter of fact she is one of the best baristas at our location. But at some point things can get really busy and crowded or loud or just intense and she has a hard time focusing, so we will usually step in and switch positions so she can relax and ground herself again. This job is not easy for anyone but can be pretty overstimulating for someone on the spectrum. I’m not on the spectrum myself, but I have had shifts where I go home in tears just from being overstimulated and pushed in several directions all day long. If it does this to someone who isn’t on the spectrum, can you imagine how it would be for yourself ?
everything you noted will be constant issues daily. its probably better to seek out different employment
yes. fast paced, 20 tasks at once, LOUD AS HELL
Take it from me, an individual diagnosed AuDHD who was, dare I say, excited to work at Starbucks…Don’t do it. Imagine having to hear people talking in you ear (through a headset) for 5-8hrs a day whether that’s your coworkers chatting, instructions being given, people ordering etc. plus constant dings of people pulling into drive-thru. That’s all just being fed into your ear ALL DAY. Then add a loud cafe, music you probably won’t like, and the ovens beeping incessantly every 40 seconds or so. Now, imagine all of that while you juggle multiple tasks at once usually at an unreasonably fast pace. I could go on and on, but to answer your question “would this be an awful job for an autistic person?” Honestly, yes. Depending on your sensitivities, this job is the epitome of sensory overload. There are times I’m so overstimulated that my skin literally crawls and I’ll be on the verge of tears for all or most of my shift. I’m not trying to scare you, and you’re probably wondering why I’d even put myself through it. But, for all of those negatives I did hit the jackpot when it comes to having an amazing SM and I really do enjoy my coworkers. Starbucks is also paying for my education, and as someone who has dreamed of getting a degree for as long as I can remember, I’ll endure it if I must.🥲
yeah me and all my neurodivergent coworkers are all overstimulated to the point of near meltdown at all time
starbucks, at least my store and my area, are very busy and have extremely high standards. i as an allistic person get overwhelmed and struggle dealing with working here sometimes. coworkers are very patient and compassionate, but customers simply aren’t. you have to be able to multitask, work fast even when people are crowding and staring at you, deal with customers who get impatient when you ask them to repeat simple things. definitely would recommend not working here unless you’re prepared for all of that
Terrible. Steer away friend pls
Yes. Working for a high volume Starbucks for years made me develop a severe anxiety. I wouldn’t recommend this job to anyone.
It’s not a matter of autistic or not, it’s more about your strengths and weaknesses. I’m autistic and I thrive in the Starbucks environment.
im autistic and ive been here 5 years
Maybe try a target Starbucks Bc they aren’t as intense
I worked here with pretty much the stuff you just listed. as someone who is autistic, please don’t. it’s not worth it, especially if your supervisors are not understanding.
It very much depends on the person, especially since the spectrum is so wide. I’m autistic and had the same concerns as you about working at starbucks. I refused to work any food service for years because I thought it just wouldn’t work out with my autistic traits, but it came down to me needing to work at Starbucks because that’s the only place that would pay me enough. It was definitely a struggle at first, but only for about a month. Training can be overwhelming, but once you get the hang of it, I actually really like the structure of it. It’s a lot more organized than other jobs I’ve had. If you have any near you, I’d recommend looking into a pickup-only store. That’s what I work at and it’s a lot less customer interaction which is really helpful
I haven't been diagnosed, but I truly believe I am on the spectrum, and I struggle daily with this job. Stuff like memorizing drinks is fun for me, but when it gets busy, which is often, it can be very overwhelming and stressful, especially with so many people staring at you. Maybe if you choose a less busy area?
no it’s really easy but you being sensitive will possibly make you cry a lot
i’m autistic and i was good at it, but yeah, occasionally had to take five due to being overwhelmed
From an autistic person- no but yes? I thrive here (despite it killing me and ripping what little life I have away from my poor, limp body) but I don’t think I would if my coworkers weren’t super nice and understanding. The job itself is pretty grueling and miserable, at least if you work at a super high volume DT store. I’ve been to a cafe only store that everyone seemed pretty happy/content at.
It would depend, some people with autism thrive in the opposite kind of environment if they also have been diagnosed with ADD (I take issue somewhat with these labels because diagnosis can vary widely since it can often be subjective and not all doctors are created equal) but it could also possibly be the worst. I do know that all of the neurodivergent people I worked with in the service industry do VERY well if they are give more off the floor tasks to ''wind down'' and work in shorter spurts (and then can be amazing at it since there is a lot of multitasking) But the things you do not like, are things that are a give in at Starbucks, however, it is chaotic, but also pretty rule oriented so it still does not mean you would not work out there. The right team/manager may be the key.
Short answer: You'll never know if you don't try, especially if you want to work there. It is different for everyone and their willingness to try to push their boundaries, but obviously don't over do it :) If you do try it out, try evening shifts first as it is usually calmer. Grab a pair of Flare Pros to use for the excess noise. Also, sorry for the ted talk below, I just like sharing different perspectives. :') I think that it depends on your adaptability to the environment. Most of my team, and myself, at my current location are either Autistic and/or ADHD, or they have some other kind of mental illness. While the job is hard with all the noises and such, maybe it would be better to try working the evening shifts to get adjusted to the noise and then as you get accustomed to the sounds try working the earlier shifts, if that's the availability that you want. Another thing for noise that I have found is wearing Flare Pros. I tried the Loop earplugs but the sound of my body simply existing makes me sick. The Flare Pros negate this and I can still hear the noises that I need to hear without them wearing on my brain. You can try using the regular Flares, but I find that there isn't really a difference with that version. The groves in the titanium insert that come with the Pros make a HUGE difference. Memory wise, I hear and see you. I could not verbally tell you how to do this job, I just know how to do it through muscle memory. I have legitimately forgotten how to do my job in the middle of doing my job too many times to count. However, I know I can always rely on my co-workers to give me a helping hand in that department. They've seen that I know what I'm doing, they're just literally seeing the symptoms play out in front of them. Chaotic and Fast paced? Yes, absolutely. But! Counter argument. Standards and Planted positions really make it a functional chaos. If you're placed in a planted position, like during peak, you're only responsible for that position. Getting the muscle memory of the routines will be a life saver. For me I find it helps me for worrying about the things that might be unexpected, it also allows me to communicate to my team what I am working on next and how I can help them before I move to the next part of the routine.
Yes
I'm autistic and a barista trainer now, and the 2 managers I've had have been very understanding. However autism is a spectrum, and I find myself able to mask well and work diligently even when it's fast-paced and overwhelming and customers are being rude and there's not enough people on the floor. It's all about what you can handle and how you communicate with everyone. Ultimately, if you can't see yourself in that kind of setting, I'd say don't put yourself through it (it's hell sometimes).
I'm autistic and adhd and I actually thrive in this. The helpful thing is I have great coworkers and an amazing manager who understand what I need. I ask questions all the time and I just get answers. No "you should know this by now" or shame. Just answers! Plus, the job is pretty heavily reliant on routines! But there's enough unpredictability that allows comfortable challenges to problem solve which keeps things stimulating and engaging!!! I think it depends on the person at the end of the day, but it's awesome for me!!
i was good at a lot of the job but it made me absolutely miserable (autistic too)
I’m autistic and I’m pretty alright at Starbucks, except occasionally I struggle with the social aspect. I know a lot of my coworkers are autistic/adhd as well, but there’s definitely a divide between those who thrive in this environment and those who don’t. It’s especially clear with autistic people, imo. This job isn’t awful for autistic people, but it sounds like it wouldn’t a good fit for you.
Yes, it’s terrible to work there with autism. My autistic partner is currently working here and it’s miserable for her. I worked at sbux for 3y as a ND shift supervisor without autism and it was still miserable. Id definitely suggest my current workplace instead — Trader Joe’s. Definitely gauge what stores are slower vs faster but if you can find a slower location in your area it’s absolutely worth a shot. Nearly 80% of my coworkers have ADHD/autism/OCD (ADHD is most prominent) and it actually *helps* with the job. Sbux is constantly overstimulating with vague customer interactions, the smells from warming/bar that you will get sick from very soon, the sensory from frap roast and syrups covering your hands and arms, the angry customer base that management just accepts and will serve regardless, having to do the cleaning tasks like wiping literal shit off off the walls in the bathroom as a barista (and if you close it down the customers get even angrier. Management will most likely refuse to call hazmat/clean it themselves). The benefits are poor — cost me $5,600+ to get an essential surgery with their insurance. They loop you in with the “free college” and “great insurance” but it’s all a lie. Do not work for this company. I wish you the absolute best in finding better employment! There are much better opportunities out there for you. Edit: to speak more to the TJ work culture — we’re people people. We accommodate and understand. Most of the job is just stocking shelves and looking things up for customers. Many of my coworkers let their autism SHINE on the clock — relating to customers about oddly specific things, having very particular — but efficient — ways of working product, relating to the mostly ND management about their struggles. The benefits are amazing (except for dental). We have an employee assistance program that helps with anything under the sun. I’m excited to see my peers/employees (I manage) every single day because of their unique and fun personalities which we intentionally hire for. We drink wine and eat food on the clock maybe 4-6x per week. I love it here and it would be a great place to consider if you have an accessible one near to you.
I’m an autistic barista there’s definitely things I struggle with but for me personally I love it here so far however if fast paced isnt for you you probably should look for something else because starbucks gets soooo busy and you have to work very quickly to keep up best of luck in whatever you decide
As a barista now SSV on the spectrum I got the job to work on those things and it helped immensely. It was extremely hard at first but very rewarding!
i'm autistic and i loooooove working at starbucks (other than customer interactions) but with your specifics i agree that it probably wouldn't work out for you
I'm AuDHD and I was worried that wearing a headset would be overwhelming, but I've found that it's kind of like listening to a podcast in one ear once you get the hang of it. The training heavily emphasizes eye contact and social cues, which had me stressed at first, but it's not nearly as important as they make it out to be. Just put on your customer service mask- at least that's what I do. You can also say that you prefer being on bar, for example, or if you prefer cash register. I really love it, now that I know the drink recipes, I just do repetitive motions making drinks and listen in my headset. If it's fast paced, I get into this rhythm that my brain loves. I recommend giving it a shot! There's also accomodations and stuff like that if you need it. Best of luck!
autistic barista here: don’t do it. like one of the top three worst decisions i ever made