Steward

Job Description

Job Description

POSITION: 

Steward

ABOUT THE LAKE:

The Lake is a new private social club opening in Fall 2026 in Chicago’s River North

neighborhood. Spanning 26,000 square feet, the clubhouse will feature a classic brick

and-limestone exterior paired with stylish contemporary interiors, creating an atmosphere

that is both elegant and inviting. Designed to foster a vibrant, welcoming community, The

Lake will center around an exceptional food and beverage program and bring together

individuals from diverse backgrounds who share a love of gathering with family and friends.

The club will offer three distinct restaurants, including a French-inspired brasserie, a

British American restaurant, and an Italian trattoria. In addition, members will enjoy two

cocktail bars, a members’ wine cellar, a roof terrace, and three guest rooms, all

thoughtfully designed to create a dynamic and curated experience.

ABOUT TOPOGRAPHY:

Topography is a hospitality company founded by Liam Krehbiel in 2021 that develops and

operates a collection of luxurious hotels and clubs, with a vision to build a world-class

company known for excellence in guest experience, employee satisfaction, financial

performance, and environmental stewardship. The Lake will be Topography’s first property

to open, with additional projects in development across Wisconsin, New England, and

North Carolina.

SERVICE PHILOSOPHY:

At The Lake, wellness is an extension of our broader hospitality philosophy—thoughtful,

personalized, and rooted in genuine care. The spa experience should feel calm,

intentional, and highly tailored, offering members a sense of retreat within a vibrant social

environment.

Leaders are expected to uphold standards of service that are:

• Detail-oriented and highly personalized

• Professional, warm, and intuitive

• Refined yet approachable

• Consistent in quality while flexible to individual needs

Every interaction—from booking to treatment to departure—should reflect a seamless and

elevated experience.

ABOUT THE POSITION:

The Steward is responsible for maintaining the cleanliness, organization, and sanitation of

The Lake’s kitchens, ensuring the culinary team has the tools and support needed to

deliver an exceptional dining experience.

The ideal candidate is a hardworking, detail-oriented team player who takes pride in

maintaining a clean, organized, and efficient kitchen environment.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Dishwashing & Sanitation

• Wash, sanitize, and properly store all dishware, glassware, flatware, and cookware

to health department standards.

• Maintain a clean and organized dish pit throughout service.

• Monitor and maintain dish machine chemical levels and water temperature.

Kitchen Cleanliness & Support

• Maintain cleanliness of kitchen floors, walls, and equipment throughout and after

service.

• Empty trash and recycling regularly, keeping receiving and storage areas clean and

organized.

• Assist cooks with basic prep tasks and breaking down deliveries as needed.

Equipment & Inventory Care

• Properly store and organize pots, pans, utensils, and small wares.

• Report any equipment issues or maintenance needs to kitchen leadership.

• Assist with inventory organization and rotation of stock.

Team Support

• Communicate proactively with cooks and kitchen leadership regarding dish and

equipment needs during service.

• Support a smooth, efficient flow between the kitchen and dish area during peak

periods.

Pre-Opening & Continuous Improvement

• Participate in pre-opening planning, including kitchen setup and dish room

organization.

• Assist in establishing cleaning schedules and sanitation protocols.

• Identify opportunities to improve efficiency and cleanliness in the kitchen.

REPORTS TO:

Sous Chef

CANDIDATE REQUIREMENTS:

The Lake is seeking candidates who bring a strong work ethic, reliability, and a

commitment to cleanliness and safety.

Professional Experience:

• Prior experience as a steward, dishwasher, or in a kitchen support role preferred,

though not required.

• Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced, physically demanding environment.

• Strong attention to detail and commitment to cleanliness and safety standards.

• Ability to lift and carry heavy items and stand for extended periods.

• Experience with pre-opening environments is a plus.

Core Values Alignment:

Candidates should demonstrate alignment with Topography’s core values:

• Drive

• Empathy

• Excellence

• Integrity

• Positive Attitude

COMPENSATION:

The Lake offers a competitive compensation package that includes a base salary, annual

bonus, and a 401(k) plan. Additionally, The Lake provides a comprehensive benefits

package, including medical, dental, and vision insurance, and paid vacation. Topography

Hospitality is an equal opportunity employer.

START DATE:

Fall 2026

LOCATION:

Chicago, IL