‎Starbucks just listed a $360k position—are you qualified to apply?

‎Starbucks, the $111 billion coffee giant known for its global cafés and signature beverages, is looking to fill a very different kind of role—one that trades coffee counters for cockpits. The company is now hiring a corporate pilot to operate its private jet, offering a top-tier salary that could soar up to $360,000 annually, placing it far above the average commercial aviation job.

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‎Starbucks is hiring a corporate jet pilot for $360K. See the elite requirements, executive perks, and how it compares to typical barista pay.

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‎Unlike a typical barista gig, this position comes with rigorous requirements and a host of elite responsibilities. The hired Starbucks pilot will not only be responsible for directing preflight planning, evaluating safety risk factors, and managing flight operations, but also serving as a brand ambassador both in the air and on the ground.

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‎To even qualify, applicants must carry a valid Airline Transport Pilot certificate, a First Class medical certificate, and an FCC restricted radio operator’s license. A minimum of 5,000 flight hours, a bachelor’s degree, and at least five years of experience as a captain in a corporate flight department are also preferred. International large-cabin business jet experience is another major plus.

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‎But it’s not just technical prowess Starbucks is after. The company is also emphasizing soft skills: customer service excellence, tact and decorum, and a professional image that “positively reflects the Starbucks Coffee Company.” With the role regularly interacting with Starbucks’ highest-level executives—including CEO Laxman Narasimhan—discretion and diplomacy are non-negotiable.

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‎The disparity in pay is striking. While the average Starbucks barista salary is around $32,000 per year, this jet-setting role earns more than ten times that. Even experienced commercial airline captains, who average around $198,000, fall short of the top Starbucks pilot compensation. The airline route, however, is often more accessible, with thousands of openings and union protections. Starbucks’ private aviation opportunity, on the other hand, is a rare, elite role for seasoned professionals.

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‎In an industry where roles are often behind the scenes, this opportunity positions the pilot as a high-profile figure within the company, embodying Starbucks' premium image. With rigorous demands and a hefty paycheck, it’s not a job for the average flyer—but for the right candidate, it’s a career-defining opportunity.