Chalkboard Wings & BBQ is hiring an experienced evening line cook who can thrive in a high-volume dinner service and is excited to grow into BBQ and smoking techniques over time.
This role is ideal for a strong closer — someone who takes pride in a clean, organized kitchen — and who wants to expand their skill set by learning the smoker and eventually stepping into an assistant pitmaster / pit apprentice role.
Located in the Mount Vernon / Woodlawn neighborhood of South Alexandria, we serve a 45-seat restaurant along with pop-ups, catering, and regional events across Northern Virginia and Washington, DC. This position has real room for growth within the company.
Evening and weekend availability is required.
What You’ll Do
- Execute dinner service on a busy line, maintaining ticket times under 10–15 minutes
- Prepare entrees, wings, sandwiches, salads, and appetizers with speed and consistency
- Prep during service to set yourself (and the team) up for success during rushes
- Follow recipes precisely to ensure consistent, high-quality food
- Ensure all to-go orders are complete, accurate, and properly packaged before handoff
- Perform thorough closing duties, including:
- Properly chilling and storing proteins and hot-held foods
- Cleaning fryers, grills, smokers (as trained), and all kitchen equipment
- Restocking and resetting the line for opening staff
- Maintain a clean, organized kitchen throughout your shift — not just at close
- Keep dry storage, walk-in, and line areas orderly and labeled
- Safely lift and carry items up to 45 lbs
BBQ & Growth Opportunity
- Learn the fundamentals of wood-smoked BBQ and pit operations
- Train on our smoker with the goal of becoming an assistant / apprentice pitmaster
- Gain hands-on experience in BBQ production, holding, and service
- Opportunity to grow into expanded kitchen leadership and event roles
You do NOT need prior pitmaster experience — we will train the right person.
What We’re Looking For
- Line cooks who can handle volume and stay calm under pressure
- Strong closers who take pride in cleanliness, organization, and setting up the next shift for success
- Curiosity and willingness to learn BBQ, smoking, and large-batch cooking
- Positive attitude and team-first mindset
- ServSafe Manager Certification or willingness to obtain within 30 days
Why Chalkboard
In just a few short years, Chalkboard has become a true neighborhood bar with a food program that punches above its weight — from our extensive wing lineup and wood-smoked BBQ to smash burgers and catered events throughout the region.
We believe in hiring, training, and promoting from within, and in helping our team build real careers — not just fill shifts.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $18.00 - $22.00 per hour
Expected hours: 35 – 45 per week
Benefits:
- Employee discount
- Paid training
Work Location: In person
