Line Cook

Hammond, IN, USA|Onsite

Job Overview

Employment Type

Full-time

Part-time

Compensation

Hourly

Range $16.60 - $25.00

Work Schedule

Flexible

Day Shifts

Weekend Shifts

Benefits

Restaurant Discounts

Employee assistance program

Paid vacation

Medical insurance

Dental Insurance

Vision Insurance

Life insurance

Accident protection

critical illness insurance

Domestic Partner Benefits

401(k)

Job Description

Lil' Ba-Ba-Reeba! is a vibrant and innovative restaurant located in the bustling River North neighborhood of Chicago. As the sister restaurant to the renowned Cafe Ba-Ba-Reeba!, Chicago's original Spanish tapas bar in Lincoln Park, Lil' Ba-Ba-Reeba! brings a fresh and modern twist to traditional Spanish cuisine. Established under the creative leadership of Executive Chef Eric Jorgensen, the restaurant offers a unique menu featuring authentic Spanish small plates, including classic favorites like Patatas Bravas, Bacon-Wrapped Dates, and Baked Goat Cheese, alongside exciting new tapas that are exclusive to this location. The establishment prides itself on a lively atmosphere complemented by a beverage menu that highlights traditional Spanish sangria and a rotating selection of seasonally inspired cocktails, making it a popular dining destination for both locals and visitors alike.

Joining the team at Lil' Ba-Ba-Reeba! means becoming a part of the Lettuce Entertain You group, a well-respected organization known nationally for its commitment to exemplary food and service, as well as its dedication to creating outstanding workplaces. With over 100 restaurants across the country, Lettuce Entertain You is renowned for fostering a culture that values creativity, passion, and the ambition to excel. The company offers career-long training and development opportunities to empower its staff members to grow professionally. Employees enjoy excellent benefits, including comprehensive medical coverage through Blue Cross Blue Shield, dental and vision insurance, paid vacation for qualifying employees, and various wellness programs focused on mental health. Lil' Ba-Ba-Reeba! maintains an inclusive and supportive work environment where every team member is encouraged to contribute, learn, and thrive.

The role of the Line Cook at Lil' Ba-Ba-Reeba! is vital to the successful execution of the restaurant's dynamic menu and high standards. Line Cooks are responsible for the preparation, production, and presentation of all menu items according to prescribed recipes and any special guest requests. This position demands a keen attention to detail, the ability to multitask efficiently under pressure, and adherence to strict safety and sanitation guidelines. Candidates for this role should be prepared to work varied shifts, including weekends, in a fast-paced kitchen environment. Responsibilities include maintaining food quality and safety, managing portion controls and par levels, and communicating effectively with the kitchen team and management. A Line Cook must be physically capable of standing for extended periods, lifting and moving ingredients and equipment safely, and thriving in a sometimes confined and noisy workspace.

This role is perfect for individuals passionate about culinary arts who seek to grow their careers within a nationally recognized and progressive restaurant group. Lil' Ba-Ba-Reeba! and Lettuce Entertain You together offer a path for advancement, supporting their staff with ongoing training, employee assistance programs, and comprehensive insurance plans. Candidates who join this team can expect a rewarding career in a creative and caring environment that values teamwork, professionalism, and commitment to excellence.

Job Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent
Prior cooking or kitchen experience preferred
Ability to stand for entire shift
Ability to lift up to 50 pounds
Availability to work evenings, weekends and holidays
Effective communication skills in English
Ability to follow safety and sanitation guidelines
Willingness to work in a fast-paced, team environment

Job Qualifications

High school diploma or equivalent preferred
Prior experience in a restaurant kitchen or similar environment is desirable
Ability to follow recipes and special instructions accurately
Strong communication skills
Capability to work effectively under pressure in a fast-paced environment
Basic knowledge of food safety and sanitation practices
Ability to stand for long periods and lift moderately heavy items
Team-oriented with a positive attitude
Willingness to work flexible hours, including nights, weekends and holidays

Job Duties

Prepare menu items according to prescribed recipes and/or special requests
Available to work a variety of hours, days and shifts, including weekends
Safely and effectively use and operate all necessary tools and equipment, including knives
Ability to effectively communicate in order to perform and follow job requirements in written and spoken direction
Multitask calmly and effectively under pressure
Work in a confined, crowded space of variable noise and temperature levels
Able to move and lift up to 10 pounds, frequently move and/or lift up to 25 pounds, and occasionally move and/or lift up to 50 pounds
Ability to stand and walk for an entire shift and move safely through all areas of the restaurant, which may include stairs, uneven or slick surfaces
Follow all prescribed portioning controls and par levels
Maintain food safety and quality standards
Ability to read a thermometer correctly and efficiently
Communicate any food delays or issues to Coordinator
Maintain menu item counts and communicate to Management and service staff when quantities fall below restaurant specific minimum quantity
Accurately account for all items coming out of the station
Understand and follow the food allergy procedure and special orders/restrictions
Comply with all safety and sanitation guidelines and procedures
Follow all rules, policies, procedures and conditions of employment, including those outlined in the Employee Handbook
Get along well with others and be a team player
Other duties will be assigned as needed