Barback, Restaurant​/Food Service

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Full Time Chicago, IL, US

Salary Range: $18.00 To $21.00 Hourly

Job Position:
Barback / Food Prep Associate

Schedule:

Monday to Friday, 6:30 AM – 3:00 PM
Wage: $18-21/hr

Location:

Downtonw Chicago, IL

As a Barback / Food Prep Associate with Food For Thought, you will support daily bar operations while assisting with the preparation of hot and cold appetizers. This position plays an important role in ensuring efficient beverage service, maintaining a clean and well-stocked bar, and delivering high-quality food and hospitality experiences to our guests.

The ideal candidate is dependable, organized, detail-oriented, and comfortable working in a fast-paced hospitality environment. This position requires flexibility to assist both front-of-house and back-of-house teams as needed.

• Assist bartenders with daily bar setup, stocking, maintenance, and closing procedures.
• Restock beverages, ice, glassware, garnishes, mixers, and other bar supplies.
• Maintain clean, organized, and properly stocked bar stations throughout service.
• Wash, polish, and organize glassware, bar tools, and equipment.
• Prepare basic beverage garnishes and mixers following established standards.
• Monitor inventory levels and communicate replenishment needs to supervisors.
• Assist with beverage service and other bar-related tasks as directed, consistent with applicable regulations.

• Prepare and assemble hot and cold appetizers according to standardized recipes and presentation guidelines.
• Perform basic food preparation tasks, including washing, cutting, portioning, and assembling ingredients.
• Assist with heating, cooking, and plating appetizers using approved kitchen equipment and procedures.
• Ensure food is prepared and presented consistently, meeting company quality standards.
• Maintain proper food storage, labeling, temperature controls, and sanitation practices.
• Monitor food supplies and communicate shortages or preparation needs to the culinary team.
• Assist with replenishing food displays and appetizer stations during service.

• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work environment in accordance with company standards and health regulations.
• Follow all food safety, sanitation, and workplace safety procedures.
• Work collaboratively with bartenders, culinary staff, and other team members to ensure efficient service.
• Support setup and breakdown of special events and catered functions as needed.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• Previous experience in food service, hospitality, bar support, or basic food preparation preferred.
• Basic knowledge of food handling, sanitation, and kitchen safety procedures.
• Ability to follow standardized recipes, preparation instructions, and portion guidelines.
• Basic mathematical skills to understand measurements, recipes, and portion sizes.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to communicate effectively with supervisors and coworkers.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a team.
• Valid Food Handler Certificate or ability to obtain one within the required timeframe.
• Ability to stand for extended periods, bend, reach, and lift and carry supplies and equipment as required by the position.

• At least one year of experience as a barback, food prep associate, kitchen assistant, or in a similar hospitality position.
• Experience preparing hot and cold appetizers.
• Familiarity with basic kitchen equipment and bar operations.
• Strong attention…