Description esmero is looking for a full-time Food Runner to join our team!

The Food

Runner is an important part of the team, ensuring each dish is delivered and presented from the kitchen timely and accurately. This is a full-time position, paid hourly, and candidates must be willing to work 40+ hours, 5 days a week (Wednesday - Sunday). The name esmero embodies our purpose.

It speaks to care, intention, and uncompromising attention to detail. Every gesture—whether sourcing an ingredient or a dish’s presentation—is guided by the pursuit of excellence and genuine hospitality. Our ambition is not to redefine Mexican cuisine, but to contribute to its continuing story.

To honor its past while embracing its future. Led by Chef Adair Canacasco, esmero is the culmination of a lifelong exploration of Mexican identity, memory, and craftsmanship. Born in Mexico City and raised in the American Midwest, Chef Adair brings together heritage and contemporary technique through a collaborative creative process rooted in curiosity, discipline, and intention.

Each course is thoughtfully composed to engage every sense, transforming familiar flavors into experiences that evoke emotion, inspire conversation, and create lasting memories.

Responsibilities Set up runner stations, including some areas in the kitchen.

Follow up the daily tasks listed on the day-to-day runner checking lists.

Maintains complete knowledge of table and seat numbers

Maintains complete knowledge of all menus, including ingredients and techniques used

Maintains knowledge of current day reservations, including PONs (People of Note), dietary restrictions, or other special instructions via pre-service meetings





Deliver dishes to the dining room and explain them when required

Anticipates Chef’s needs and respond promptly

Takes direction from Chefs, Expo, and dining room team

Additional duties as assigned by management Requirements Unprecedented work ethic

1 or more years of experience as a food runner, server assistant, server, or related position

Ability to work in a fast-paced, chef-driven environment

High attention to detail

Strong communication skills

Ability to carry a tray with food and/or drinks

Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team

Thinks clearly, quickly, and maintains concentration during high pressure situations Physical Requirements Must be able to work on your feet for at least 8 hours

Must be able to move, pull or lift at least 35 pounds

Must be able to climb stairs multiple times per shift Benefits Competitive hourly wage at $21.50 - $22.00/hour

Medical, vision, dental and life benefits available on the 1st month following full-time employment

50% company contribution to single HMO during the first 2 years of full-time employment, 100% contribution available after 2 years

Paid time off

401(K) with a company match of up to 4% of deferred earnings

CTA/Ventra discount available after 1 month of full-time employment

Employee Dining Discount, 20% to any Alinea Group restaurant

Referral Bonus Program available The Alinea Group is an equal opportunity employer. We value diversity in gender, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, religion, age, veteran status, life experiences and ideas. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities and strive to provide an inclusive culture that embraces diversity. Must be eligible to legally work in the United States. We use E-Verify.

📌 Food Runner (Campo Alegre)
🏢 The Alinea Group
📍 Campo Alegre