Expeditor (Hourly) - Alinea - The Alinea Group

Alinea is looking for a full-time Expeditor to join our team! The Expeditor is an important part of the team, acting as a logistical liaison between FOH and BOH, by managing and organizing the flow of service and organizing the team to ensure all plates leave the kitchen in a timely and safe manner, while adhering to the culinary team’s standards. This is a full time position, paid hourly, and candidates must be willing to work 40+ hours, 5 days a week.

A concept founded by Chef Grant Achatz and Nick Kokonas, Alinea has been globally praised for its molecular gastronomy techniques and innovative approach to modernist cuisine, pushing boundaries in a multi-sensory dining experience. It is one of only 13 restaurants in the U.S. to earn the coveted Michelin 3-Star rating and is the only one to hold this honor in Chicago. It has also been named the Best Restaurant in the World by Elite Traveler, the Best Restaurant in North America by The World’s 50 Best Restaurants, and the Best Restaurant in the U.S. by Gourmet and Business Insider. Driven by the notion of doing the unexpected, guests can be assured to leave the dining room feeling inspired.

Responsibilities

• Organize the Expeditor station for nightly service, ensuring all necessary equipment is in place for efficient operation.
• Develop and maintain a strong working knowledge of the entire menu to assess and prepare for dietary restrictions prior to service, and ensure all affected courses are safely delivered to guests.
• Act as the liaison between the culinary and FOH team to effectively communicate all information during service, including standard order information, dietary restrictions, Persons of Note (PON), any special guest requests, and to ensure an ample supply of clean plateware and serviceware.
• Assist in pre-service daily training, particularly in food running, dish description, and ingredient information.
• Direct a team of 6+ runners to maintain kitchen organization and cleanliness throughout service.
• Verify the quality, quantity, and presentation of each dish leaving the kitchen.
• Foster positive relationships between front-of-house (FOH) and back-of-house (BOH) teams through effective communication and collaboration.
• Stay updated on industry trends and maintain a deep understanding of the culinary world.
• Resolve management requests and guest complaints satisfactorily.
• Follow safety and emergency procedures to safeguard staff, guests, and property
• Exhibit courteous and cooperative behavior when interacting with the public and staff, fostering a harmonious and efficient workplace environment
• Performs other duties as assigned by supervisor/manager

Requirements

• Demonstrate an unparalleled commitment to your work
• Possess at least 1 year of experience as an expeditor, server, or related role
• Ability to excel in a high-pressure, chef-driven environment.
• Maintain a keen eye for detail in every aspect of your role.
• Strong communication skills to effectively collaborate with the team.
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a dynamic team.
• Think clearly, act quickly, and maintain concentration during intense situations.

Physical Requirements

• Must be able to work on your feet for at least 8 hours
• Must be able to move, pull or lift at least 35 pounds
• Must be able to climb stairs multiple times per shift

Benefits

• Competitive hourly wage at $24 - 24.50/hour
• Medical, vision, dental and life benefits available on the 1st month following full-time employment
  • 50% company contribution to single HMO during the first 2 years of full-time employment, 100% contribution available after 2 years
• Paid time off
• 401(K) with a company match of up to 4% of deferred earnings
• CTA/Ventra discount available after 1 month of full-time employment
• Employee Dining Discount, 20% to any Alinea Group restaurant
• Referral Bonus Program available

The Alinea Group is an equal opportunity employer. We value diversity in gender, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, religion, age, veteran status, life experiences and ideas. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities and strive to provide an inclusive culture that embraces diversity.

Must be eligible to legally work in the United States. We use E-Verify.