Cafe Teammate - CAA at Fairgrounds Coffee and Tea in Chicago, IL

Benefits:

• Employee discounts
• Flexible schedule
• Free food & snacks
• Training & development

Job Type: Full-time, Part-time

Compensation: $17.25/hour, tip eligible | $21-$25 per hour (base rate + avg tip rate)

Who We Are

At Fairgrounds Coffee & Tea, we believe that great food, exceptional coffee, and genuine hospitality bring people together. We’re a community-driven café dedicated to creating welcoming spaces, thoughtfully crafted beverages, and memorable guest experiences.

The Role

We’re looking for passionate, dependable, and hospitality-driven Teammates to join our growing team!

As a Fairgrounds Teammate, you’ll help create positive guest experiences, take pride in delivering intentional hospitality, and bring positive energy to all café operations. Whether you’re on the bar, floor, or in the kitchen, you’ll play an important role in bringing the Fairgrounds experience to life.

What You’ll Do

Hospitality & Guest Experience

• Create a warm, welcoming environment and deliver friendly, attentive service.
• Assist guests with orders, menu questions, and recommendations.
• Contribute to positive and memorable guest experiences.

Food, Beverage, & Café Operations

• Craft high-quality coffee, tea, specialty beverages, and food according to Fairgrounds’ recipes and quality standards.
• Support daily preparation, restocking, and café procedures while maintaining clean, organized, and well-stocked workstations.
• Follow food safety, sanitation, and operational procedures.

Teamwork & Collaboration

• Collaborate with teammates and leadership to ensure smooth daily operations.
• Communication proactively and support teammates during busy periods.
• Take initiative, welcome feedback, and demonstrate a willingness to learn.

What We’re Looking For

• Prior speciality coffee, restaurant, or kitchen experience preferred.
• A positive, reliable, and team-oriented attitude.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to multitask and work efficiently in a fast-paced environment.
• Attention to detail and commitment to quality and cleanliness.
• Availability for early mornings, weekends, or holidays as needed.
• Food safety certification, or willingness to obtain one.

Why Join Fairgrounds?

• Employee Discounts: Discounts on eligible food, beverage, and retail purchases.
• Shift Drinks & Meals: Available in accordance with company policy.
• Training & Development: Hands-on training and opportunities to develop new skills.
• Growth Opportunities: Opportunities for professional development and advancement into leadership roles.
• Supportive Team Culture: A collaborative and inclusive workplace built on teamwork and mutual respect.

Ready to join us? Apply today!

Fairgrounds Coffee & Tea is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering an inclusive workplace.

Compensation: $17.25 - $25.00 per hour

The heartbeat of our restaurant isn't just the kitchen or the dining room—it’s the people who show up every day to make it run. We are a local staple dedicated to providing our community with exceptional service and memorable experiences. Whether we are serving a quick lunch or a celebratory dinner, our goal remains the same: to make every guest feel like they belong.

We take pride in our craft, but we take more pride in our culture. We’ve built a team that thrives on collaboration, respects the grind, and celebrates each other’s wins. When you join us, you aren’t just "hired"; you become an essential part of a fast-paced, high-energy environment where your contributions are noticed and your growth is prioritized.