Smoque BBQ is looking for an experienced and driven Restaurant Manager to join our team. This is a full-time, hands-on management role at our busy and iconic BBQ restaurant in Chicago’s Old Irving Park neighborhood.
At Smoque BBQ, we take BBQ seriously—so much so that we’ve become a destination for locals and out-of-towners alike. But we’re also a neighborhood joint at heart, with a strong focus on community, hospitality, and quality.
To learn more about who we are and what we do, visit www.smoquebbq.com.
What You’ll Do
As Restaurant Manager, you’ll play a key leadership role in the day-to-day operations of the restaurant, including:
- Recruiting, hiring, and training front and back of house staff
- Creating and managing weekly staff schedules
- Monitoring labor to meet budget targets
- Maintaining food safety and quality standards
- Handling daily cash operations and reports
- Leading performance reviews and coaching plans
- Addressing guest issues with a service-forward approach
- Managing cleanliness and organization in both FOH and BOH spaces
- Minimizing waste and identifying cost-control opportunities
- Ensuring completion of daily opening/closing procedures
- Supporting the General Manager and Ownership team as needed
What We’re Looking For
This role is ideal for someone who thrives in a fast-paced environment, has a hands-on management style, and knows how to lead by example.
Requirements:
- Minimum 3 years of experience in a high-volume, fast-casual or full-service restaurant
- ServSafe Manager Certification (current)
- Proficiency in Excel, Outlook, and general computer systems (Dropbox, POS, etc.)
- Open availability, including weekends (Friday–Sunday required)
- Valid Illinois driver’s license with clean driving record
Preferred Qualifications:
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills
- Bilingual in Spanish is a plus
- Comfortable standing for extended periods and lifting up to 50 lbs
- Proven track record of building and retaining strong teams
- Detail-oriented, organized, and proactive
- A genuine passion for hospitality—and BBQ
If you meet the qualifications above and are looking for a leadership opportunity at one of Chicago’s most respected BBQ spots, click Apply Now to submit your resume and a brief cover letter.
