Kitchen Manager

Augie’s is a high-energy neighborhood bar and restaurant in Lincoln Park focused on elevated comfort food, craft cocktails, and creating a fun, welcoming atmosphere for both guests and staff. We are looking for a hands-on Kitchen Manager / Chef to lead our back-of-house operations and grow with our team.

This is not a corporate chef role. We are looking for someone who can lead a kitchen, build systems, coach a team, and thrive in a fast-paced environment while maintaining consistency, cleanliness, and strong food quality.

What You’ll Do

• Manage daily kitchen operations and service execution
• Lead, train, and motivate BOH staff
• Maintain food quality, consistency, and presentation standards
• Create and enforce prep, cleaning, and organizational systems
• Manage inventory, ordering, and vendor relationships
• Monitor food and labor cost goals
• Build schedules and manage staffing levels
• Maintain sanitation and health department standards
• Assist with menu development, seasonal features, and private event menus
• Work closely with ownership and the GM on private events, catering offerings, and party execution
• Help develop and maintain scalable party and catering packages for events and large groups
• Work the line and expo during busy services as needed
• Collaborate closely with ownership and FOH management

What We’re Looking For

• Previous Kitchen Manager, Sous Chef, or Executive Chef experience
• Strong leadership and communication skills
• Ability to manage a fast-paced, high-volume kitchen
• Experience with inventory, ordering, and food cost control
• Reliable, organized, and solution-oriented
• Team-first mentality with a positive attitude
• Ability to stay calm under pressure
• Weekend and evening availability required

Compensation & Benefits

• Starting salary: $65,000+
• Performance-based bonus and incentive opportunities
• Paid time off
• Staff discounts
• Flexible scheduling when possible
• Creative input on menu and kitchen operations

About Augie’s
Augie's is more than just a place to eat and drink – it's a neighborhood hub where regulars feel like family and new faces are always welcomed with a smile. If you’re looking to be part of something special, we'd love for you to join us!

To apply, please send your resume and a brief introduction telling us about your experience and why you’d be a great fit for Augie’s.