Cafe Associate

Job Overview

About Lab 1860 Lab 1860 is a Levantine café and kitchen concept opening in Orland Park, Illinois. We draw from the pantry traditions of the Eastern Mediterranean — mana'eesh, mezze, fresh bread, house-made sweets, and an intentional soft serve program — and translate them into a fast-casual, all-day format built for how people actually eat. This is a pre-opening hire: you will be part of the team from day one.
The Role The Café Associate is the first and last impression at Lab 1860. You greet guests, take orders, run the counter, and make sure every interaction feels warm, efficient, and genuine. You report to the Front-of-House Manager and work as part of a tight floor team that takes hospitality seriously. This is a counter/fast-casual and dine-in environment. You will be expected to know the menu deeply and speak to the food with confidence — training will be provided.
This is a tip share postion plus the posted Hourly rate
What You'll Do
• Greet and welcome every guest with warmth and professionalism
• Take orders accurately at the counter, operate the POS system, and process payments
• Communicate orders clearly to the kitchen and follow up on ticket status as needed
• Answer guest questions about the menu — ingredients, preparation, allergens, and the story behind the food
• Maintain a clean, organized, and well-stocked counter area throughout the shift
• Support dine-in guests with table checks, condiment replenishment, and attentive service • Assist with opening and closing duties as assigned • Other duties as assigned by management

What We're Looking For
• 1+ year of experience in a customer-facing role in a restaurant, café, or retail environment preferred
• Warm, outgoing, and professional demeanor — you genuinely enjoy interacting with people
• POS experience preferred; ability to learn new systems quickly required
• Ability to stay calm, organized, and positive during busy service periods
• Genuine curiosity about Levantine and Mediterranean food culture — willingness to learn the menu inside and out
• Flexibility to work a variety of shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays
• Must be able to stand or walk for extended periods, and lift/carry objects up to 25 lbs without assistance
• Food Handler certification required (or ability to obtain before opening)
• Degree or certificate from a hospitality or food service program preferred, but not required

Compensation & Benefits
• Competitive hourly rate: $16.00–$18.00 per hour, commensurate with experience
• Participation in tip pool
• Full-time position
• Health insurance coverage
• 401(k) with company matching
• Food & beverage discounts for all staff
• Pre-opening start date — be part of building Lab 1860 from day one