Line Cook – HopCat in Grand Rapids, Michigan at Project BarFly

Line Cook – HopCat

Starting Pay: $18.00/hour

Location:

Job Type: Full-Time / Part-Time

We Don't Hire Line Cooks.

We Hire Kitchen Professionals.

At HopCat, we believe great restaurants are built by great people. We're looking for “A Players”—individuals who take pride in their craft, care about their teammates, and consistently deliver exceptional food under pressure.

This role isn't just about cooking food. It's about executing at a high level, contributing to a winning kitchen culture, and helping create memorable guest experiences every shift.

Whether you're an experienced line cook or an ambitious team member looking to grow, HopCat offers a clear development path, structured training, and a tiered raise system that rewards skill development and performance.

Mission

The mission of the Line Cook is to consistently deliver safe, high-quality food with speed, accuracy, and pride while contributing to a kitchen culture built on accountability, teamwork, and hospitality.

What Success Looks Like For An “A Player” HopCat Line Cook:

1. Deliver Excellent Food Every Shift

• Execute menu items to HopCat specifications.
• Maintain exceptional food quality, presentation, and consistency.
• Produce food that guests would proudly order again.

2. Support Strong Ticket Times

• Maintain station readiness and organization.
• Execute efficiently during peak periods.
• Contribute to kitchen ticket-time goals of 20 minutes per ticket without sacrificing quality.

3. Maintain Food Safety Excellence

• Follow all food safety and sanitation standards.
• Maintain proper labeling, storage, rotation, and temperature controls.
• Consistently pass internal and external food safety inspections.

4. Master Multiple Kitchen Stations

• Become certified and proficient on Fry, Grill, Sauté, Pantry, and Expo stations.
• Continue progressing through HopCat's kitchen development pathway.
• Demonstrate versatility and flexibility during staffing needs.

5. Be a Reliable Teammate

• Show up on time and prepared for every shift.
• Support fellow team members during busy periods.
• Contribute positively to kitchen morale and culture.

6. Grow Professionally

• Complete required training milestones.
• Advance through HopCat's tiered kitchen raise program.
• Pursue opportunities for Lead Cook, Kitchen Manager, and culinary leadership roles.

Competencies of an “A Player” for HopCat:

The ideal candidate demonstrates the following:

Accountability

Takes ownership of results and follows through on commitments.

Sense of Urgency

Maintains focus and efficiency in a high-volume environment.

Attention to Detail

Executes recipes, portions, and presentations accurately.

Teamwork

Supports others and contributes to a positive kitchen culture.

Coachability

Accepts feedback, learns quickly, and continuously improves.

Reliability

Consistently shows up prepared and ready to perform.

Organization

Maintains a clean, stocked, and service-ready station.

High Standards

Refuses to cut corners and takes pride in quality work.

What You'll Receive

Starting Wage - $18.00/hour

Performance-Based Raise Program

Our structured kitchen pathway rewards skill development and station certifications with opportunities for additional wage increases.

Additional Benefits

• Flexible scheduling
• Shift meal discounts
• Paid time off (eligible team members)
• Comprehensive training and development
• Career advancement opportunities
• Fun, fast-paced, team-oriented culture

Requirements

• Restaurant or kitchen experience preferred, but not required
• Ability to work nights, weekends, and holidays
• Ability to stand for extended periods
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment
• Commitment to food quality and guest satisfaction

Why HopCat?

HopCat is known for award-winning food, legendary hospitality, and one of the best craft beer programs in the country. We invest heavily in our people and provide real opportunities for growth.

If you're looking for a kitchen where hard work is recognized, standards matter, and advancement is earned, we'd love to meet you.

Apply today and start building your culinary career with HopCat.

HopCat is an Equal Opportunity Employer and values diversity in the workplace.