Line Cook

Burl Evanston is a new wood-fired restaurant opening in early 2026 in the Central Street Merchant District in Evanston, Illinois. The first restaurant from Chef Tom Carlin and partner Rachel Canfora-Carlin, known for their craftsmanship, warmth, and genuine hospitality, Burl will offer a refined yet approachable dining experience rooted in seasonality and community. 

We are seeking an experienced a Full-Time Line Cook that will be responsible for preparing menu items consistently and accurately, following recipes, plating standards, and timing guidelines. We have an open kitchen, allowing the kitchen to be in full view of the guests. As part of the opening team, Burl Line Cooks will define kitchen standards, processes, and culture that will guide Burl for years to come.

Experience & Qualifications: 

• Minimum of 3 years working in a fast paced, full service restaurant
• Knowledge of kitchen equipment, cooking techniques, and basic food safety
• Passion for excellence, superior service standards, and a positive attitude
• Must have open availability including evenings & weekends 
• Strong interpersonal & communication skills
• Ability to multi-task and stay composed in a high-volume environment 
• Must be able to frequently lift items weighing up to 50 pounds and have the ability to stand for extended periods. 
• Must have completed and maintained certification in ServSafe Food Handler Certification, and ServSafe Allergen 

Duties & Responsibilities: 

• Participate fully in pre-opening training, mock services, and system testing
• Remain adaptable and solution-oriented during opening phases
• Prepare menu items according to recipes, portioning, and plating standards
• Take ownership of assigned station and overall service quality
• Maintain consistency and quality across every dish, every service
• Ensure proper cooking techniques, temperatures, and timing are followed
• Verify all ingredients meet quality and freshness standards before use
• Assist with prep before service periods, including mise en place and ingredient setup
• Communicate with expo regarding any timing, allergies, or modifications
• Maintain a guest-focused mindset, understanding that every plate reflects Burl's philosophy
• Keep assigned station clean, organized, and full stocked throughout service
• Follow all food safety, sanitation, and health department guidelines
• Participate in daily deep cleaning tasks and side work
• Maintain personal work area, tools, and equipment in service-ready condition
• Work collaboratively with other cooks, expeditors, and FOH staff
• Communicate clearly, respectfully, and proactively about needs, timing, and issues
• Support teammates during high-volume service periods
• Participate in pre-service and post-service meetings to ensure alignment and flow
• Arrive on time, prepared, and in proper uniform 
• Possess an openness to learn about ingredients and techniques in a new way, while bringing personal knowledge and experience to the table

What We Offer:

• The opportunity to help build an opening team culture rooted  in hospitality, excellent service, and community. 
• Restaurant closed every Monday & Tuesday, providing reliable, predictable days off
• Restaurant closure twice per year at the discretion of ownership to allow our team rest & reset; all eligible employees will receive (2) weeks of paid time off during this time
• Health insurance available with employer contribution
• Employee Dining Discount 
• Ongoing training & continued education opportunities 
• Opportunity for advancement as Burl grows 

Note: This job description is intended to provide a general overview of the job and does not represent a comprehensive list of all responsibilities or qualifications required for the role.