Chef-Smokin’ Jack BBQ | Murray Ave

Smokin’ Jack BBQ | Murray Ave – Milwaukee, WI

Smokin’ Jack BBQ is hiring a hands-on, working Chef for our Murray Ave (East Side) location. This is a lead-from-the-front role—you will be on the smoker, on the line, and in the kitchen daily.

This position is ideal for a Chef who understands real BBQ, runs a clean operation, and can lead a team while controlling food cost.

• Full-time

• Nights & weekends required

What You’ll Do

BBQ & Kitchen Execution

• Operate and manage BBQ smokers (brisket, pork, ribs, chicken, etc.)

• Ensure consistent quality, yields, and portions

• Work the line and lead service during peak hours

• Maintain all food safety, sanitation, and HACCP standards

Food Cost & Menu Development

• Control food cost, waste, and portioning

• Understand BBQ yields, trim loss, and batch cooking

• Assist with menu development, specials, and menu pricing

• Maintain recipe consistency and execution standards

Leadership & Training

• Hire, train, and lead kitchen staff

• Build clear kitchen systems and SOPs

• Hold the team accountable while leading by example

Inventory & Systems

• Manage inventory counts and par levels

• Place and receive food orders accurately

• Enforce FIFO, labeling, and organization standards

• Preferred: Experience programming menus or items in Toast POS

What We’re Looking For

• BBQ & smoking experience REQUIRED

• Proven experience as a Chef, Lead Cook, or Kitchen Manager

• Strong understanding of:

  • Food cost & margins

  • Inventory control

  • Menu development

  • Kitchen systems

• Ability to work in a high-volume, scratch kitchen

• Calm under pressure, organized, and reliable

• Comfortable being a working chef, not desk-only

Nice to Have

• Toast POS experience

• Catering or large-batch BBQ experience

• Opening or stabilizing a new kitchen

What We Offer

• Competitive pay (based on experience)

• Growth opportunities within a growing restaurant group

• Input on menus and specials

• Stable ownership and clear expectations

• A chance to build and lead a serious BBQ program

Apply on Indeed or email your resume with a brief note about your BBQ experience.

⚠️ Important:
If you’re not comfortable working the smoker, the line, and leading a kitchen simultaneously, this role is not a fit.