Early hours. High standards. No ego.
Smoque BBQ is hiring a Kitchen Prep Manager to run the morning prep operation at one of Chicago’s most respected BBQ restaurants. This is a full-time, early-morning leadership role (typically 6am–2pm, with occasional variation) responsible for overseeing all food prep that powers our high-volume lunch and dinner service.
This isn’t a culinary “create and innovate” role — it’s a get-it-done-right leadership role. You’ll be managing a team of 6 prep cooks and 1 dishwasher each morning to ensure all recipes are executed accurately, efficiently, and on schedule. You’ll also be responsible for monitoring smoker runs — getting meats in and out of the pits at the right times, with consistency and care.
What You’ll Do
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Lead the daily prep operation and morning BOH team (6 prep cooks + 1 dishwasher)
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Oversee execution of large-batch, recipe-driven prep — sauces, rubs, sides, etc.
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Manage smoker timing — loading and unloading meats on schedule
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Maintain prep timelines and task organization to ensure nothing falls behind
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Monitor food quality and consistency throughout all stages of prep
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Enforce food safety and sanitation procedures
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Train, support, and hold your team accountable
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Communicate with FOH and evening BOH staff to ensure smooth handoffs
Who This Role is For
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You have real kitchen experience — not chasing chef titles, but confident managing production, process, and people
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You’re highly organized, with strong time management skills
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You lead by example and get the best out of others
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You care about doing things right, every single time
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You don’t need the spotlight — but you are the one making sure the lights come on and the food’s ready
Requirements
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2–5 years of back-of-house experience, ideally with prep or production management
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Comfortable managing people and setting expectations
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Familiarity with kitchen equipment and prep procedures
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ServSafe Manager certification (or willingness to obtain)
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Able to lift 50 pounds and stay on your feet for extended periods
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Early riser with a flexible schedule (some earlier or later days may be needed)
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English fluency required; Spanish fluency a plus
What We Offer
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Consistent full-time schedule — primarily early mornings
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Respectful, professional kitchen culture
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Competitive pay and benefits
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A leadership role with impact, stability, and zero fluff
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The chance to be part of a team that takes BBQ — and each other — seriously
Sound like your kind of kitchen? Apply now. Let’s talk.
