Food Runner

Mercadito is hiring Food Runners for both of our Chicago locations:
Mercadito River North (108 W. Kinzie St.) and our new Mercadito Lincoln Park (2423 N. Lincoln Ave., opening April).

Mercadito is an upscale, high-energy Mexican restaurant known for locally sourced ingredients, made-from-scratch execution, and hospitality-driven service. Our menu features bold, authentic flavors, seasonal guacamoles, scratch-made salsas, chef-driven plates, and a tequila-forward cocktail program, all served in a lively, high-volume environment.

Hiring Timeline

With the Lincoln Park opening approaching, we are currently onboarding team members to support Mercadito River North and help build the opening team for Mercadito Lincoln Park.

Essential Functions

Deliver a high standard of hospitality and support in a fast-paced, high-volume environment

Maintain professionalism, urgency, and attention to detail throughout each shift

Communicate clearly with teammates and leadership to support smooth service

Follow all safety, sanitation, and cleanliness standards

Work a variety of hours, days, and shifts, including weekends and peak periods

Stand and walk for the duration of a shift and move safely through all work areas

Lift and move items up to 10 lbs regularly, 25 lbs frequently, and up to 50 lbs occasionally

Key Responsibilities and Duties

Deliver food to guests accurately and efficiently according to restaurant service standards

Ensure all plates are presented correctly and match ticket details before leaving the kitchen

Communicate clearly with servers, kitchen staff, and support teams to maintain smooth service flow

Support guest needs with professionalism and urgency when interacting at tables

Assist in delivering beverages, condiments, utensils, and other service items as needed

Maintain cleanliness and organization of expo areas, service stations, and dining areas

Support allergy and dietary accommodations using established procedures

Help clear and reset tables as needed to support front-of-house operations

Follow opening, running, and closing side work consistently

Maintain strong awareness of table numbers, seat positions, and food delivery accuracy

Assist teammates during busy periods to ensure timely and organized service

Team Standards

Maintain strong teamwork and communication across the restaurant

Follow all policies and procedures in the Employee Handbook

Comply with all safety, sanitation, and cleanliness guidelines

Perform other duties as assigned

Compensation Details

Compensation: Hourly ($12.62) plus tips

Benefits & Perks: Dining discounts

Required Skills

Strong hospitality and guest interaction skills

Ability to work in a fast-paced, high-volume environment

Strong communication and teamwork

Attention to detail and delivery accuracy

Ability to multitask and stay organized under pressure

Knowledge of food presentation and service standards

Understanding of dietary restrictions and guest accommodations

Strong time management and problem-solving skills

Physical stamina and endurance

Ability to follow instructions, procedures, and service standards

Additional Skills

Customer Service Orientation

Adaptability to Changing Environments

Ability to Work Collaboratively in a Team Setting

Conflict Resolution Skills

Ability to Handle Stressful Situations

Attention to Safety and Sanitation Practices

Organizational Skills

Ability to Learn Quickly

Interpersonal Skills

Ability to Engage with Diverse Clientele

Flexibility in Scheduling

Commitment to Continuous Improvement

Compensation Details

Compensation: Hourly ($12.62) plus tips

Benefits & Perks: Dining Discounts

Required Skills

Ability to Maintain Professionalism in a Busy Environment

Capacity to Manage Multiple Tasks Simultaneously

Skill in Supporting Memorable Guest Experiences

Ability to Deliver Food Accurately and Efficiently

Ability to Monitor and Maintain Food Presentation Standards

Skill in Maintaining Cleanliness and Organization

Ability to Support Allergy and Dietary Accommodations

Capability to Assist Teammates During Peak Service Times

Skill in Following Safety and Sanitation Guidelines

Ability to Adapt to Various Shifts and Schedules

Capacity to Engage With a Diverse Clientele Effectively

Skill in Responding to Guest Requests With Urgency

Ability to Work Collaboratively With Kitchen and Front-of-House Staff

Skill in Maintaining Service Standards During Busy Periods

Ability to Learn and Adapt to New Procedures Quickly