Part Time FOH Server

Part-Time Server

In an atmosphere of dignity and respect, Inspiration Corporation connects people and creates opportunity through access to social services, job training, housing, and food. Each year, Inspiration Corporation works with hundreds of resilient Chicagoans who face systemic disparities and inequities, such as homelessness, hunger, and social isolation. To help individuals and families overcome these barriers, we provide dedicated support coupled with housing, job training, scholarships, meals and engagement services. Inspiration Corporation meets people where they are in life, helping them access the support they need and achieve their personal goals. Inspiration Corporation programs are voluntary, and all service needs and goals are participant driven. Our case management philosophy is strengths-based and trauma-informed. Inspiration Corporation practices focuses on reducing or minimizing the harm associated with high-risk behavior through motivational interviewing. Inspiration Kitchens is the social enterprise restaurant, catering and foodservice training and employment program of Inspiration Corporation. The restaurant prepares contemporary American cuisine and is top-rated in the Chicagoland community (4+ stars on Yelp, featured on Check Please!). Inspiration Kitchens' culinary skills job training program for low-income job seekers equips participants with basic culinary, sanitation and restaurant operations skills and offers participants paid, on-the-job experience. Revenue from Inspiration Kitchens' restaurant and catering helps to support the larger goals of Inspiration Corporation and its mission.

At Inspiration Corporation, employees embody our mission by demonstrating the following Core Values:

• Integrity We cultivate trusting, collaborative relationships rooted in mutual respect and accountability.
• Growth We encourage personal development, curiosity and being open to new possibilities.
• Equity We recognize each person's inherent rights and advocate for inclusive access to resources and opportunities.
• Resilience We persevere and seek solutions that celebrate our strength in the face of adversity, while practicing and encouraging self-care.
• Hospitality We create uplifting, accepting, and nourishing connections with everyone who comes through our doors.

The Server provides excellent customer and table service to Inspiration Kitchens' patrons while creating a welcoming dining experience. Responsibilities include using the POS system, accurately processing cash and credit card transactions, and learning the menu, including ingredients and topping options. The Server will also assist with stock rotation and other operational projects. During off-peak hours, the Server may support catering preparation, packaging, deliveries, and event setup. This position requires strong communication between the front and back of house, the ability to work effectively with kitchen staff, catering staff, and students, and the ability to multitask and remain focused in a fast-paced environment.

Essential duties and responsibilities include:

• Demonstrate Inspiration Corporation's Core Values.
• Uphold Policies and Procedures of Inspiration Corporation and Inspiration Kitchens.
• Exhibit professionalism and high standards in all aspects of performance.
• Be proactive in approach to pest control with guidance from supervisor.
• Follow health, safety, and sanitation guidelines for all products.
• Attend trainings and department and agency meetings
• Be flexible with hours for special events throughout the year.
• Support catering operations during off-peak restaurant periods as needed
• Other duties as assigned by supervisor.

Customer service duties include:

• Provide excellent hospitality and customer service to guests.
• Welcome and seat customers comfortably in the dining area.
• Memorize the menu and specials and recommend appetizers, meals and drinks.
• Take customers' food and drink orders and input into POS, noting any allergies or special requests.
• Communicate and collaborate with the kitchen regarding orders and modifications and for prompt and correct delivery of orders.
• Refill water and drinks, clear finished plates, and check in with customers during their meal to see if they need anything
• Deliver a memorable dining experience by resolving all customer issues promptly.
• Wipe down tables, reset chairs, keeping the dining area neat and pleasant.
• Set tables and rearrange the dining area to accommodate larger groups and prepare the restaurant for special events.
• Complete side work like stocking napkins or rolling silverware.
• Operate the POS system and accurately process cash, credit card, and other forms of payment.
• Balance cash drawer and follow established cash handling procedures.

Operations duties include:

• Perform routine daily cleaning tasks including, but not limited to: sweeping, mopping, vacuuming, washing dishes, waste disposal and recycling.
• Clean and sanitize door handles and high-touch surfaces as often as deemed necessary, in accordance with Chicago Department of Public Health standards.
• Provide operations support to kitchen staff and other departments as needed.
• Assist with catering event setup, breakdown, packaging, and delivery support as assigned.
• Complete other projects as assigned.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The following requirements are representative of the education, experience and skills necessary for the position. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• A valid Chicago Food & Sanitation License is required and must be obtained within 30 days of the position start date (training provided).
• Prior experience as a cashier, restaurant server, catering support staff, or customer service representative is preferred
• Experience handling cash and operating a POS system preferred
• Patience with the ability to stay positive, complete work on time while maintaining focus in a fast-paced environment.
• A team player that communicates effectively.
• Able to follow instructions.

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee, to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is required to stand, walk, talk and hear. The employee frequently is required to walk and stand for long periods. The employee must be able to lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The Part-Time Production Support Specialist will work up to 25 hours per week in accordance with the demands of meals, catering and restaurant services; work hours may include early mornings, days, evenings and weekends. Inspiration Corporation is an equal opportunity employer.