Join Our Team!

UQBAR is hiring for several open positions (click the links for job descriptions):

• Cooks

• Dishwashers

• Baristas

• Front of House Team Members

Compensation and Benefits: $19-21/hour base wage, plus $3-5/hour in tips for an estimated total of $22-26/hour. Health insurance for full-time staff. Paid sick and vacation days. Shift meal and employee discounts.

Schedule: UQBAR is opening in late September 2025, and we are hiring for both full-time (5 shifts per week) and part-time positions. UQBAR will be open for daytime hours Tuesday through Saturday from 8am-2pm, and we plan to expand to all-day service, 8am-8pm. Friday and Saturday availability is a must! 

What You’ll Gain Working at UQBAR:

• A competitive compensation package designed to attract and retain top talent, with opportunities for growth, cross-training, and professional development.

• Affordable health insurance for all eligible staff. Paid sick leave and vacation days.

• A supportive and collaborative work environment committed to transparency and Open Book Management (OBM). Through OBM, you’ll gain an understanding of restaurant finances, see how your work directly impacts our success, and have the opportunity to earn financial bonuses.

• Employee perks, including shift meals, employee discounts, and UQBAR merch.

• A chance to be part of a values-driven business focused on health, sustainability, and community, Join UQBAR and help us make a positive difference in the lives of our customers, neighbors, and staff through wholesome food and warm hospitality. 

UQBAR is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.

What is UQBAR? 

UQBAR (pronounced “ook-bar”) is a brand new Mediterranean cafe in Berkeley, CA that invites patrons in for a welcoming atmosphere and a fresh, Mediterranean menu emphasizing local, seasonal ingredients. Inspired by Turkish, Greek, and other cuisines, UQBAR presents Mediterranean food through the lens of California’s agricultural abundance and multicultural history.

Founded by husband-wife team Benji and Jennie Smith, UQBAR combines Benji’s decade of restaurant experience as a cook and chef with Jennie’s expertise in front-of-house operations and entrepreneurship. A deep-rooted connection to Berkeley (as Jennie’s hometown) strengthens UQBAR’s commitment to creating a welcoming space that reflects both our passion for good food and a sense of home. This is an exciting opportunity to join an opening team, where every member will be instrumental in shaping UQBAR’s atmosphere, culture, and success from day one! 

APPLY VIA THE FORM HERE. We look forward to meeting you!