What are the responsibilities and job description for the Line Cook / Prep Cook - Part Time position at The Space?
Line Cook | The Space | Downtown Champaign Part time · 20–30 hrs/week · Weekend-focused
Pay: $15/hr base service charge distribution | Estimated total: $18–21/hr
We operate on a service charge model rather than a traditional tip structure — meaning kitchen staff actually share in the revenue, not just front-of-house. It makes for more predictable and equitable pay across the whole team, and it's one of the reasons people tend to stick around here.
The Space is a restaurant, bar, and live music venue in downtown Champaign with an open kitchen. We do a weekend tasting menu that fills up. We source locally, often times directly from the farmers who grow and raise the food we serve. We have a stage and host shows and events of all kinds, including open mic music, comedy, and drag . The food here is thought about — not in a precious way, but in the way where the people making it actually give a damn.
We're looking for a line cook for weekend lunch shifts. It's not the most glamorous timeslot, and we're not going to pretend otherwise. What it is: consistent hours with a crew that's serious about the work without taking themselves too seriously. And the opportunity to make your mark while leading the creation and execution of weekend brunch items.
What the job looks like:
- 20–30 hours/week, primarily Friday, Saturday, and Sunday lunch service Sunday dinner
- Prep and line work — you'll be expected to know both sides of the equation
- Occasional opportunity to work alongside the tasting menu team for cooks who want that exposure
What we're looking for:
- Solid fundamentals (knife work, station discipline).
- Ability to act and react under pressure without losing your head. This is an open kitchen and everyone in the dining room and on the stage can feel the kitchen vibes.
- Comfort with composed or detail-oriented plates (fine dining background welcome, not required).
- Someone who can take direction and give it when needed.
- Reliability.
Benefits:
- Staff meal every shift.
- 20% staff discount.
- At least two consecutive days off every week.
To apply: Please upload a resume with references and a brief note about your experience and why this looks like a fit for you. If no resume or references no problem, but please give us some context.
Pay: $18.00 - $21.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Employee discount
Work Location: In person
Salary : $18 - $21