Work Somewhere That Feeds You Back
Smack Dab isn’t your typical restaurant job. We believe you deserve respect, support, and a team that’s got your back. If you’re looking for kitchen or cafe work in Chicago that aligns with your values, then welcome home.
WHY WORK AT SMACK DAB?
We’ve heard the stories: toxic kitchens, burnout, people treated like they’re disposable. That’s not what we’re about.
Smack Dab is a queer-owned, values-led business in Rogers Park that exists to nourish community, and that starts with the folks on our team. We create real jobs with livable pay and human-centered leadership. We believe you can work in food and still have a life.
We care about kindness. About good boundaries. About showing up for each other. If that’s the kind of place you’ve been looking for, we’d love to hear from you.
Please use the form below to apply.
Feel free to send in your resume even if you don't see the position you're looking for listed.
Front of House Manager (FT)
We are looking for a special someone to lead our team in the front of house. Is that you? Our ideal candidate is someone who truly loves working in the service industry, has at least three years of management experience in fast-paced, independently owned restaurants (within the last five years), and is seeking a career rather than just a job in this ever-changing food service landscape.
Requirements:
Minimum three years of management experience in independent, high-volume restaurants. A genuine passion for hospitality and team leadership. Ability to build trust and respect across a diverse staff.
Schedule:
This is a full-time position requiring 45–50 hours per week. Weekends are mandatory, with primarily morning and afternoon shifts and occasional evenings as needed.
Compensation and Benefits:
Starting salary is $55,000 with the possibility of a higher salary based on experience. Competitive benefits include disability insurance, health insurance, 401k matching, and performance-based bonuses.
Our Culture:
Smack Dab is woman-owned, and our staff is largely LGBTQI+. We are committed to creating an equitable and inclusive workplace where our FOH Manager can thrive and foster respect for people of all gender expressions, orientations, and backgrounds.
Lead Line Cook
Smack Dab is looking for an experienced cook for full-time work on our brunch line and in catering prep and production. Please note: we are located on the far north side in Rogers Park, Chicago, and local candidates are highly preferred.
Requirements:
Strong knife skills and speed, along with familiarity in standard cooking techniques and bulk production. Baking and management experience is a plus. Candidates must be prepared to work in a high-volume, fast-paced small business environment. At this time, we are not considering entry-level applicants or those returning to the field.
Schedule:
Weekend availability is required for morning shifts (7 am–4 pm range), along with weekday production hours in the late afternoon or early evening.
Compensation:
Starting wage is $21–23+ per hour based on experience, with additional weekend and holiday pay. Merit-based raises are available within 90 days.
We’d love to have you join our team. Please include your resume with your application.
Expo/BOH
We’re looking for an experienced Expo to join our team at Smack Dab. Please note: we are located on the far north side of Chicago, and local candidates are highly preferred.
Requirements:
At least two years of expo or line experience in high-volume settings within the last four years. Strong attention to detail and the ability to thrive in a hybrid role that includes calling tickets, plating food, running food, prep, and other back-of-house duties. Cooking experience is strongly preferred. This position is not for the faint of heart—weekends are pedal to the metal with 300+ customers served.
Schedule:
Friday through Sunday availability is required, with shifts running from morning to mid-afternoon.
Compensation:
Competitive pay based on experience, with opportunities for merit-based raises at 30, 60, and 90 days. Starting wage is $21 per hour with an additional weekend wage. Please include a resume with your application.
FOH Shift Lead
We’re looking for a Shift Lead to join our team for the busy season and beyond.
Schedule:
Saturdays and Sundays are required, with opportunities for two to three additional weekday shifts.
Responsibilities:
Managing and supervising team members during brunch shifts. Ensuring smooth operations and excellent guest experiences. Maintaining adherence to company policies and procedures.
Requirements:
At least two years of management or front-of-house experience in a high-volume restaurant setting. Strong leadership and customer service skills. Brunch gets wild here, so you need to enjoy a fast-paced environment. Please note: we are located in Rogers Park on the far north side.
Important:
At this time, we are not accepting entry-level candidates.