Barista and Food Handler

STEPPENWOLF THEATRE COMPANY

Now celebrating its 50^th Anniversary Season, Steppenwolf Theatre Company has been a cultural leader in Chicago and model for theatre companies in the United States and around the world. Formed by a collective of actors in 1976, the ensemble represents a remarkable cross-section of actors, directors, playwrights and stage managers. Steppenwolf’s artistic ambitions are made possible by its incredible workforce of individuals, who help create a culture of inclusivity, collaboration and accountability. To that end, we attempt to use an anti-oppressive and anti-racist lens in our roles and everyday decision-making. Join us in this ongoing process, as we navigate, together, our complex world.

Steppenwolf Theatre Company is seeking candidates for the part-time position of Barista and Food Handler at Front Bar, Steppenwolf’s café and bar connected to the main theater at 1700 N Halsted. Open throughout the day for use by the general community, Front Bar is a warm neighborhood hub serving coffee and espresso by Dark Matter, pastries provided by West Town Bakery and food made in-house. The menu features fresh, accessible fare, with breakfast pastries, salads and sandwiches for lunch and shareable small plates and desserts for evening and post-show service

This position reports to the Food and Beverage Director.

Hours of employment range from 9AM to 4PM daily, with peak times in the morning and supporting matinee performances on the weekend.

Areas of Responsibility:

• Prepare and serve quality food and beverages in a friendly and efficient manner
• Provide adaptive service that is cognizant of theater operations
• Maintain their station for cleanliness and sanitation and ensure the quality of all beverages
• Educate themselves and guests about coffee, tea and food offerings
• Engage our patrons as courteous, professional representatives of our company
• Assist patrons with disabilities (which includes developing a proficiency in accessibility etiquette)
• Coordinate with the box office and other departments to streamline service
• Monitor and maintain public spaces for safety, cleanliness and presentation
• Serve as knowledgeable sources of information about the theatre and city

Successful candidates will:

• Possess an Illinois Food Handlers Card
• Commit to an equitable work environment, including but not limited to use of gender inclusive language and support for individual gender expression, cultural sensitivity, racial equity and inter-generational collaboration and accessibility for audience members with disabilities
• Have experience as a barista and/or server in a high-volume bar or restaurant
• Enjoy proactively and positively interacting with a variety of personalities in a busy, fast-paced environment
• Commit to presenting a relaxed appearance and tone when interacting with guests and colleagues, which includes maintaining an unhurried pace and level modulation of voice and volume
• Demonstrate the consistent ability to effectively problem-solve in improvised situations

 Desired Qualifications:

• Be able to consistently work 15-25 hours a week, especially evenings and weekends
• Possess excellent time-management skills
• Be able to lift 40 pounds

Compensation:

Hourly rate is $16.90 per hour, plus tips. The Steppenwolf Theatre Food & Beverage is governed by a collective bargaining agreement with the IATSE Treasurers and Ticket Sellers Union Local 750. 

How to apply:

Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, resume and three references through the link provided.

NO PHONE CALLS OR EMAILS PLEASE

About Steppenwolf:

Steppenwolf Theatre Company is the nation’s premier Ensemble Theater with 49 members who are among the top actors, playwrights and directors in the field. Thrilling, powerful, groundbreaking productions — from Balm in Gilead and Grapes of Wrath to August: Osage County, Downstate and The Brother/Sister Plays — have made this theatre legendary. Founded in 1976, Steppenwolf started as a group of teens performing in the basement of a church. Today, the company's artistic force remains rooted in the original vision of its founders: an artist-driven theatre, whose vitality is defined by its appetite for bold and innovative work. Every aspect of Steppenwolf is rooted in its Ensemble ethos, from the intergenerational artistic programming to the multi-genre performance series LookOut, to the nationally recognized work of Steppenwolf Education and Engagement which serves nearly 15,000 teens annually. While grounded in the Chicago community, more than 40 original Steppenwolf productions have enjoyed success nationally and internationally, including Broadway, Off-Broadway, London, Sydney, Galway and Dublin. Steppenwolf also holds accolades that include the National Medal of Arts, 12 Tony Awards, two Pulitzer Prize-winning commissions and more. Led by Artistic Directors Glenn Davis and Audrey Francis, Executive Director Brooke Flanagan and Board of Trustees Chair, Keating Crown — Steppenwolf continually redefines the landscape of acting and performance.  

Steppenwolf Mission:

Steppenwolf strives to create thrilling, courageous and provocative art in a thoughtful and inclusive environment. We succeed when we disrupt your routine with experiences that spark curiosity, empathy and joy. We invite you to join our ensemble as we navigate, together, our complex world. steppenwolf.org, facebook.com/steppenwolftheatre, twitter.com/steppenwolfthtr and instagram.com/steppenwolfthtr. 

Steppenwolf Core Values:

Equity Inclusion
Integrity Curiosity
Courage Collaboration
Accountability Leadership

Steppenwolf Theatre Company is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. We provide equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, Steppenwolf complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.

Salary : $17