Grill Cook

Line Cook

Department: N&J Management

Reports to: Kitchen Manager

Location: N&J Chicago

FLSA Status: Non-exempt, Full-time hourly

Job Summary
The Grill Cook is responsible for preparing, cooking, plating, and presenting menu items in accordance with Company recipes, culinary standards, and food safety requirements. Working under the direction of the Kitchen Manager, this position plays a critical role in delivering exceptional food quality, consistency, and timely execution during every service. The Grill Cook is responsible for maintaining a clean, organized, and efficient workstation while supporting all kitchen operations through teamwork, professionalism, and attention to detail. The ideal candidate is dependable, organized, thrives in a fast-paced environment, and takes pride in producing exceptional food while contributing to a positive team culture.

Daily Responsibilities and Tasks
Food Preparation & Culinary Execution

• Prepare, cook, and plate menu items according to standardized recipes, preparation procedures, and presentation standards.
• Ensure all food is prepared accurately, consistently, and within established ticket times.
• Maintain proper portion control and recipe adherence to ensure quality and cost consistency.
• Inspect ingredients and finished products to ensure freshness, quality, and proper presentation.
• Assist with daily production, prep work, and station setup to ensure service readiness.
• Communicate effectively with kitchen team members to support efficient service execution.

Kitchen Operations

• Set up, stock, and maintain assigned cooking stations before, during, and after service.
• Monitor inventory levels at assigned stations and communicate replenishment needs.
• Rotate products using First-In, First-Out (FIFO) inventory practices.
• Minimize food waste through proper preparation, storage, and portioning techniques.
• Properly label, date, store, and organize all food products.
• Assist with receiving deliveries and storing products appropriately.

Food Safety & Sanitation

• Follow all food safety, sanitation, and workplace safety standards.
• Properly clean and sanitize equipment, utensils, and food preparation surfaces.
• Maintain proper food temperatures during storage, preparation, cooking, and service.
• Report equipment concerns or safety hazards to kitchen leadership immediately.
• Follow all Company policies regarding sanitation, personal hygiene, and food handling.

Teamwork & Professionalism

• Maintain professional communication with kitchen leadership and fellow team members.
• Support coworkers during high-volume service periods.
• Accept coaching and feedback while demonstrating a willingness to learn new skills.
• Maintain a positive attitude while contributing to a respectful and collaborative kitchen culture.

Job Qualifications

• Strong understanding of basic culinary techniques and kitchen operations.
• Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment while maintaining attention to detail.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Commitment to food quality, consistency, and cleanliness.
• Ability to prioritize multiple tasks while maintaining organization.
• Dependable attendance and punctuality.

Required Education, Certification, or Experience

• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• Previous restaurant or culinary experience preferred.
• Fine dining experience preferred but not required.
• Food Handler Certification required or ability to obtain within 30 days.

Physical Requirements and Schedule

• Ability to remain on feet for extended periods, including prolonged standing and walking throughout kitchen operations during service periods.
• Ability to move throughout all areas of the restaurant, including kitchens, storage areas, walk-in coolers, freezers, receiving areas, and event spaces.
• Ability to frequently bend, stoop, reach, lift, carry, and perform repetitive movements associated with food preparation and kitchen operations.
• Ability to lift, carry, and move food products, equipment, supplies, and operational materials up to 50 lbs. as needed.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced kitchen environment with frequent exposure to heat, steam, open flames, sharp equipment, cold storage areas, and varying temperatures.
• Ability to safely operate commercial kitchen equipment, including ovens, ranges, grills, fryers, slicers, mixers, knives, and other culinary equipment.
• Schedule requires flexibility and may include early mornings, evenings, weekends, holidays, and extended hours based on business needs.
• Schedule is typically Tuesday - Saturday 2pm-11pm, based on production and dinner service needs.

Compensation and Benefits

• $25.00 - $27.00 per hour, based on experience
• Accrued PTO up to 80 hours per year
• Virtual urgent care and mental health support for only $5/month 
• Opportunity to participate in additional company benefits (health, dental, vision, etc.) if 30 hr average over 6-month employment
• 8 hours for Give Back Day- a paid day to dedicate to serving at a local non-profit  
• 30% employee discount

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Nic & Juniors is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.