Careers At Chuckwagon Bistro

Event Operations Coordinator with an General Manager Track

Location: Detroit, Michigan
Type: Part-Time to Full-Time
Pay: $20–$25/hr (DOE)

About the Role

The Event Operations Coordinator plays a critical role in the seamless execution of Chuckwagon Bistro’s luxury catering and private dining experiences. Acting as the lead logistical manager and team liaison, this role oversees everything on the operations side— venue setup, transportation, staff coordination, vendor management, and guest service. You will be responsible for executing timelines, keeping the team on brand and on time, solving problems in real-time, and creating a polished, professional environment for both our guests and crew.

This position is not just a job—it’s a leadership pipeline. You’ll begin by managing logistics behind the scenes, then grow into leading full events and staff. As the brand scales, this role is designed to evolve into a General Manager position, taking over full operations, staffing, client experience, budgeting, and more.

You’ll work side-by-side with the Executive Chef/Owner, gaining mentorship and firsthand experience in growing a modern mid-priced luxury culinary brand from the ground up.

Candidate Profile

Education and Experience

• High school diploma or GED + 2 years experience in event management or related field
  OR

• 2-year degree in Hospitality, Culinary Arts, Business, or a related major (no experience required)

• Bonus: Has passed or is pursuing the Certified Sommelier Examination, or Advanced Sommelier Certification

Core Responsibilities

Executing Event Operations

• Coordinate kitchen rental schedules, transportation load-outs, and venue setup

• Lead pre- and post-event meetings; create timelines and checklists for FOH/BOH teams

• Manage staff check-in, uniforms, event standards, and guest experience

• Solve last-minute challenges, adapt quickly, and keep events running smoothly

• Serve as the primary liaison with vendors, venues, and rental companies

• Track expenses, stay within budget, and maintain accurate post-event documentation

• Ensure event breakdown, cleaning, and reset are handled professionally

Sales & Guest Relations

• Assist in upselling premium services during planning

• Conduct walkthroughs and site visits alongside sales team

• Review client invoices, service satisfaction, and feedback

• Maintain a strong presence during events and follow up post-event

Who You Are

• Exceptionally organized and calm under pressure

• Detail-obsessed, solution-oriented, and confident in leadership situations

• Comfortable managing people, time, budgets, and high expectations

• Driven to grow into a General Manager role with full operational oversight

• Experience in catering, hospitality, restaurants, or logistics is a strong plus

• Possess strong interpersonal communication skills and professionalism

• Able to work flexible hours including weekends, evenings, and some holidays

What You’ll Own (Now & In GM Role)

• Chuckwagon Family Values: Live them, teach them, and model them for the team

• Staffing & Scheduling: Hire, train, and manage top-tier hospitality professionals

• Event Execution: Lead teams in flawless guest service, event flow, and breakdown

• HR & Admin: Oversee timecards, tip-outs, policies, training, and team development

• Finance: Manage COGS, labor costs, cash handling, comps/voids, and vendor budgets

• Inventory: Track and order all BOH/FOH supplies and oversee receiving

• Brand Building: Maintain the luxury experience, elevate the product mix, and ensure repeat business

• Safety & Compliance: Oversee health, safety, and incident protocols

Perks & Growth

• Direct mentorship from Executive Chef/Owner

• Real path to salaried General Manager role

• High-exposure work with upscale clients, events, and VIP activations

• Creative environment that values leadership, not just labor

• Flexible scheduling with opportunities for event-based bonuses

• Be part of a founding leadership team in a growing luxury brand

To Apply:

Send your resume plus a short message telling us why you’re built for this role. Bonus if you’ve worked in catering, restaurant management, event production, or logistics. If you’re on a Certified Sommelier track or have food and wine pairing experience, we want to hear about it

Dining Room Manager – Private Events & Luxury Catering

Job Title: Dining Room Manager

At Chuckwagon Bistro, we’re all about creating unforgettable experiences, and the Dining Room Manager is the orchestrator who makes it all happen. This dynamic role demands a visionary leader who is not just managing a team, but curating an atmosphere where impeccable service, unmatched guest satisfaction, and flawless execution of every dining event are the standard. As the heartbeat of the dining room, you’ll guide the front-of-house crew with finesse, ensuring that every detail—from the way the wine flows to the precision of table turns—is executed flawlessly.

Beyond leading the service team, you’ll take charge of managing the inventory for liquor, beer, and wine, keeping costs in check while maintaining the highest standards of quality. You’ll also handle vendor relationships, ensuring that linens, décor, and all essential dining elements are in perfect harmony. Collaborating closely with the event coordinator, you’ll oversee everything from table settings to the seating chart, ensuring a seamless dining experience that feels effortless but is backed by meticulous planning.

To thrive in this role, you’ll need a fine dining background that’s second to none, an eye for the smallest detail, and a leadership style that inspires and elevates the team around you. At Chuckwagon Bistro, we’re not just serving food—we’re creating moments, and as Dining Room Manager, you’ll be the conductor of the symphony that ensures every guest experience is nothing short of extraordinary.

Key Responsibilities

• Supervise the front-of-house team, ensuring high levels of service and operational efficiency

• Ensure a seamless and outstanding guest experience from arrival to departure

• Oversee inventory management for liquor, beer, wine, and related items; monitor costs and work to optimize margins

• Manage vendor relationships for linens and other necessary supplies (e.g., kitchen towels, aprons, napkins, tablecloths)

• Train, schedule, and develop dining room staff, providing ongoing coaching and leadership

• Resolve guest complaints and concerns in a professional and timely manner

• Maintain cleanliness, organization, and presentation standards in the dining room

• Collaborate with the kitchen team to ensure timely service and quality food delivery

• Monitor and control costs related to dining room operations, including staffing, inventory, and supplies

• Ensure adherence to all health, safety, and sanitation standards

• Foster a positive, supportive, and productive team environment

Qualifications

• Minimum 2 years of experience in fine dining or upscale restaurant management

• Proven leadership skills and ability to manage a team effectively

• Experience in liquor, beer, and wine cost management and inventory control

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills

• Ability to handle high-pressure situations while maintaining professionalism

• Exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail

• Ability to lead by example and provide excellent guest service

• Strong knowledge of fine dining service standards

• Commitment to continuous improvement and team development

• Willingness to work flexible hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays

To Apply

If you are passionate about fine dining, enjoy leading a team, and have experience in inventory management and cost control, we encourage you to apply. Submit your resume and a brief cover letter detailing your qualifications and why you're the right fit for the role.

Sous Chef – Private Events & Luxury Catering

About This Role: As the Sous Chef, you will play a pivotal role in supporting the Executive Chef in the day-to-day operations of the kitchen. You will be responsible for executing both modern and traditional cooking techniques, including smart ovens, sous vide, distillation, cryovac, searing, baking, braising, poaching, and more. Your expertise in knife skills, cooking methods, and attention to detail will be essential in maintaining the highest quality standards.

In this role, you'll also assist in managing food costs, ensuring that recipes are executed efficiently, and overseeing food production to ensure quality and consistency. As a leader in the kitchen, you’ll delegate tasks to kitchen staff and provide training, support, and supervision to ensure smooth and effective operations. The role will also involve collaborating on recipe development, ensuring that each dish meets the highest culinary standards.

Key Responsibilities:

• Oversee daily kitchen operations, ensuring quality and consistency in food production

• Implement modern and traditional cooking techniques (sous vide, cryovac, searing, etc.)

• Manage and mentor kitchen staff, ensuring tasks are delegated and completed on time

• Assist in maintaining food cost control, managing inventory, and minimizing waste

• Develop and refine recipes, working with the Executive Chef

• Monitor the quality of dishes as they are prepared and delivered

• Ensure proper hygiene and safety practices are followed

• Assist in maintaining kitchen equipment and utensils in top condition

• Work with the Executive Chef on menu planning and special events preparation

• Be prepared to step into the role of acting Executive Chef as needed

Who You Are:

• Experienced in modern cooking methods (sous vide, distillation, cryovac) and traditional techniques (sear, bake, braise, poach)

• Excellent knife skills and attention to detail

• Ability to manage kitchen operations and team effectively

• Comfortable delegating tasks and ensuring smooth food production

• Able to assist in controlling food costs and managing inventory

• A passion for culinary innovation and excellence

Education & Experience:

• Culinary Arts Degree or equivalent experience

• Minimum 3 years of experience in a high-volume kitchen, with at least 1 year in a supervisory role

• Experience with modern cooking technologies preferred

• Ability to work in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment

Perks:

• Competitive salary based on experience

• Opportunities for growth and development within the company

• Work in a high-end culinary environment with innovative techniques

• Be part of a passionate, driven team of culinary professionals

 Station Cook

Location: Chuckwagon Bistro
Compensation: $20–$24 per hour (Based on experience & skill level)
Uniform: Chef coat (provided), apron, slip-resistant shoes
Status: Full-Time
Growth Potential: Elevated learning environment with opportunities to grow into Sous Chef or beyond

About the Role

At Chuckwagon Bistro, our Station Cooks are culinary technicians—executing elevated plates with precision, pride, and purpose. You’ll be part of a chef-driven team that thrives on discipline, timing, and clean execution. This is not your average line cook position. Every dish that leaves your station will be scrutinized, celebrated, and expected to meet a high standard.

What You’ll Do

• Execute dishes to spec and plate with finesse under the direction of the Sous Chef or Executive Chef

• Master a specific station (garde manger, sauté, grill, or hot apps), but be flexible to rotate as needed

• Handle mise en place, daily prep, and restocking to maintain readiness for every service

• Ensure your station is clean, organized, and fully stocked before, during, and after service

• Work in sync with expeditors, food runners, and fellow cooks to ensure food flows cleanly from pass to plate

• Uphold all food safety and sanitation standards with precision

• Communicate clearly with BOH and FOH teams to ensure smooth service

• Participate in deep cleaning, breakdown, and side duties as required

• Stay calm, collected, and efficient in high-pressure, fast-paced environments

• Represent Chuckwagon Bistro values at all times—in the food and in the culture

What You’ll Need

• Minimum 2 years of experience in an upscale or fine dining kitchen

• Proven ability to execute at least one station at a high level (training provided for others)

• Knife skills, plating fundamentals, and understanding of culinary techniques required

• Must be able to follow detailed instructions and show consistency in execution

• A desire to grow, improve, and elevate your craft daily

• Comfortable working 8–12 hour shifts, nights and weekends included

• Ability to lift 50 lbs and work on your feet in hot, cold, and high-pressure environments

• Must be punctual, organized, and have a clean appearance

• Culinary degree or formal training preferred, but not required

Why Join Chuckwagon Bistro?

Because this is where cooks turn into chefs. You’ll be surrounded by passionate culinary professionals who treat food like art and service like a sport. Our kitchen is organized, intentional, and intense—but we value teamwork, support, and growth. Whether you're building your foundation or sharpening your edge, you'll leave here better than you came in.

Ready to get on the line and make your mark?

Bartender

Hourly Pay: $15/hr + tips
Job Type: Part-time or full-time, depending on service needs
Eligibility: Must be 21+

Job Overview:
We’re seeking an experienced and skilled bartender to join our team at Chuckwagon Bistro. As a bartender, you’ll be responsible for creating classic and innovative cocktails, ensuring exceptional service, and maintaining a smooth bar operation. If you have a passion for mixology, fine dining, and creating memorable guest experiences, we want you on our team.

Responsibilities:

• Prepare and serve alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages with speed, finesse, and accuracy, adhering to the highest standards of cocktail preparation.

• Demonstrate in-depth knowledge of classic base cocktails and the ability to craft unique beverages based on guest preferences.

• Maintain a clean, organized, and fully stocked bar area at all times.

• Ensure compliance with health and safety regulations, as well as alcohol service laws.

• Provide excellent service to guests, taking the time to educate them about cocktails and pairings.

• Work efficiently in a fast-paced, high-volume environment while maintaining attention to detail.

• Uphold French and American service standards to ensure exceptional guest experiences.

• Manage cash handling, closing duties, and bar inventory as needed.

• Collaborate with kitchen and service teams to meet guest demands and maintain a smooth service flow.

• Responsible for keeping bar area clean, organized, and stocked with necessary tools.

• Adhere to all sanitation and safety guidelines.

• Operate bar equipment and prepare garnishes and ingredients for cocktails.

What You’ll Need:

• Must be at least 21 years of age.

• A minimum of 2 years of experience working in a fine dining or full-service restaurant environment.

• Strong knowledge of classic cocktails, wine (including vintage, variety, and vineyard), and spirits.

• Understanding of French and American service styles and standards.

• Ability to multitask and maintain a calm demeanor under pressure.

• Excellent communication and customer service skills.

• Ability to work flexible shifts, including weekends and holidays.

• TIPS or equivalent alcohol service certification preferred.

• Passion for mixology and providing an outstanding guest experience.

Why Join Chuckwagon Bistro?

• Work in a dynamic, high-energy environment where your expertise is recognized and valued.

• Opportunity to showcase your creativity with cocktail creation and guest interaction.

• Competitive pay, including tips, and benefits for full-time employees.

• Room for career growth—top bartenders have the chance to take on higher-level positions within the restaurant.
  Because at Chuckwagon Bistro, bartenders are not just pouring drinks—they’re curating an experience. Our open-kitchen, open-bar concept brings our craft to the front lines, where speed, precision, and showmanship matter. You’ll work with premium spirits, seasonal ingredients, and a team that values style and substance. Whether you’re refining your technique or already a cocktail wizard, you’ll be supported, challenged, and recognized for your impact. We believe in real hospitality, real teamwork, and raising the bar—literally.

Server

As a Server, you’ll operate within a hybrid team service model (front server/back server), working in lockstep with your team and the kitchen. You’ll perform table-side service with finesse, monitor timing across our multi-course dégustation menu, and execute each guest interaction with elegance and intention. From perfectly set tables to synchronized course drops—you’ll help us deliver a world-class dining experience every night.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Deliver high-touch, silent fine dining service that anticipates guest needs without interruption

• Execute team-based hybrid service model (front server/back server) with grace and communication

• Maintain a full understanding of French and American service techniques including gueridon service, crumbing, silent clearing, and more

• Perform minimal table-side cooking or finishing presentations with confidence and skill

• Set and reset tables with exactness—cutlery, glassware, napkin folds, and centerpieces are all held to the highest visual and functional standard

• Time every table’s course progression: ensure a 5–6 minute flow between clearing, resetting, and serving the next course

• Ensure synchronized service when entering the dining room and delivering plates—guests are served in unison

• Keep water, wine, and cocktails refilled without needing to be asked

• Attend menu tastings, monthly service refreshers, and all pre/post shift meetings

• Communicate in real time with the kitchen expeditor, sommelier, and service captain for seamless transitions

• Support and mentor back servers when necessary—polishing glassware, running dishes, or assisting in resets

• Contribute to a positive, professional, and clean team culture

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Deliver flawless, synchronized service in a multi-course degustation format

• Ensure all table settings are correct and refreshed between each course

• Maintain pristine beverage service—glasses never run empty

• Collaborate with the kitchen and expeditor to time plate drops with precision

• Practice silent, anticipatory service—guest needs are met before they speak

• Follow French and American service standards, including table-side execution

• Maintain a composed, polished demeanor during high-volume service

• Attend all pre-shift briefings, service debriefs, and seasonal tastings

• Support both front and back-of-house staff in a unified, professional manner

WHAT YOU NEED TO SUCCEED

• 2+ years in upscale or fine dining service preferred

• Strong understanding of restaurant etiquette and formal service styles

• Ability to maintain pace, presence, and polish under pressure

• Working knowledge of wine, spirits, and plated food presentation

• Willingness to learn, adapt, and perform at a high standard consistently

• Flexible schedule availability: nights, weekends, holidays

REQUIREMENTS

• 2+ years minimum in fine dining or luxury hospitality service

• Knowledge of French & American dining room service standards

• Strong understanding of degustation menus, wine pairings, and pacing etiquette

• Able to perform under pressure in a fast-paced, guest-first environment

• Able to move fluidly throughout the space, balancing poise with urgency

• Must be available nights, weekends, holidays, and private event shifts

• ServSafe & Responsible Alcohol Certification (or obtained within 30 days)

• Passionate about food, hospitality, and creating unforgettable guest experiences

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Must be able to stand and walk for extended periods (4–6 hours)

• Lift and carry up to 30 lbs (trays, equipment, etc.)

• Navigate varied floor surfaces confidently (tile, carpet, steps)

• Perform fine motor tasks such as polishing, setting, folding, and pouring

WHY SHOULD YOU WORK HERE?

At Chuckwagon Bistro, we’re not just serving meals—we’re orchestrating moments. Our chefs may create art in the kitchen, but it’s you who brings it to life at the table. You are the bridge between vision and memory, between excellence and execution.

You control the pace, the energy, and the vibe of the room. Every move you make—how you pour, how you clear, how you approach—sets the tone. This isn’t about just taking orders. This is about delivering elegance, precision, and presence, with every step and every course.

Here, service is a performance—refined, intentional, and perfectly timed. If you’ve ever wanted to be part of a team where every detail matters, where your role is respected like the chefs’, and where you're challenged to operate at the highest level of hospitality—this is your stage. We don’t just want professionals. We want artists in motion, people who understand the difference between eating and dining. If you’ve got that eye, that finesse, that hustle and heart—we saved a place for you.

Dishwasher

Location: Chuckwagon Bistro
Employment Type: Full-Time / Part-Time
Compensation: $17.00 – $19.00/hour

Overview

At Chuckwagon Bistro, the Dishwasher is an essential part of the kitchen brigade, playing a hands-on role in supporting the rhythm of a high-performance, open-kitchen operation. This position is responsible for maintaining a clean, organized, and well-stocked workspace to support smooth and timely service. Your work directly impacts the guest experience—because when your station runs clean, the entire kitchen performs better.

This is an ideal opportunity for someone looking to build a career in hospitality from the ground up. Attention to detail, consistency, and care are essential. Your station is your domain, and we expect you to take pride in keeping it efficient, safe, and ready to go—every shift.

What You’ll Do

• Clean and restock all plates, dishes, utensils, glasses, silverware, pots, and pans used throughout the restaurant

• Maintain and operate the dishwashing machine and hand-washing station according to standards

• Ensure service plates, ramekins, and glassware are polished, hot, and ready for service

• Keep the dish area, kitchen floors, mats, and back dock clean, organized, and safe

• Remove, break down, and properly dispose of garbage, recycling, and boxes throughout service

• Support product receiving and organization when requested by the kitchen

• Adhere to all food safety, sanitation, and hygiene protocols at all times

• Maintain a stocked and organized dish station with awareness of kitchen flow and pace

• Collaborate with chefs, food runners, and servers to support real-time service needs

• Complete daily opening, mid-shift, and closing checklists and responsibilities

• Anticipate back-of-house needs during high-volume periods and adjust with urgency

• Assist with additional cleaning or maintenance projects as assigned by management

What You’ll Need

• Must be 18 years of age or older

• Ability to walk, stand, bend, and lift for 10–12 hour shifts

• Capable of lifting and carrying up to 50 lbs consistently

• Must be able to work in extreme kitchen conditions: hot (up to 110°F) or cold (as low as -20°F)

• Ability to read, write, and communicate clearly in English

• Prior experience in a high-volume or full-service restaurant is preferred, but not required

• Team-first attitude and the ability to remain focused and composed under pressure

• High level of cleanliness, organization, and a strong work ethic

• Professional appearance, punctuality, and dependability

• Availability to work evenings, weekends, and some holidays

Uniform

• Black cook’s shirt (provided or approved by management)

• Non-slip shoes required

Growth Opportunity

This position is an entry point into Chuckwagon Bistro’s kitchen team. Reliable, hardworking dishwashers will have the opportunity to grow into cook or prep roles as skills develop and performance is proven. We believe in promoting from within and building up individuals who show commitment and drive.

Why Join Chuckwagon Bistro?

Because what you do matters. At Chuckwagon Bistro, we know the food doesn’t make it to the table without someone like you keeping the engine clean, stocked, and moving. Our open-kitchen layout puts every team member on display—your work is visible, your performance is essential, and your effort is respected.

You’ll be part of a fast-paced, high-level culinary environment that values precision, consistency, and hustle. Whether you’re launching a culinary career or bringing years of experience, you’ll be joining a team that sees you, supports you, and gives you room to grow.

Inclusive Hiring

This position is available to individuals from targeted groups who face significant barriers to employment. Chuckwagon Bistro is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes candidates from all backgrounds and experiences to apply.