Join Our Team!

NOW HIRING: COOKS

Our Cooks at UQBAR bring our Mediterranean-inspired menu to life! They are instrumental in creating every delicious dish and in upholding our commitment to fresh, seasonal, and wholesome food. Their culinary skills, speed, and ability to work efficiently and smoothly in a collaborative kitchen environment underpin our success. This role is perfect for someone who is passionate about cooking with quality ingredients, holds themselves to a high standard of precision and presentation, and who is eager to contribute to a positive kitchen environment.

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 October 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! 

Key Responsibilities:

• Communicate effectively with other kitchen staff and front-of-house team members to ensure smooth service and a positive guest experience

• Prepare ingredients and cook menu items according to UQBAR’s recipes, quality standards, and Chef instructions.

• Ensure all dishes are prepared and presented consistently and in a timely manner.

• Uphold the highest standards of food safety and hygiene.

• Maintain a clean and organized workstation, including proper sanitation of tools and surfaces.

• Monitor inventory levels of prepared ingredients and communicate needs to the Chef

• Portion and store ingredients properly to minimize waste and ensure freshness, actively contributing to waste reduction and sustainability goals.

• Participate in daily kitchen cleaning tasks.

• Assist with receiving and storing deliveries as needed.

• Contribute to a positive and collaborative team environment.

Qualifications:

• A genuine passion for cooking Mediterranean cuisine and commitment to culinary excellence.

• Basic knife skills and understanding of kitchen equipment, food preparation and cooking techniques.

• Knowledge of food safety and sanitation practices (Food Handler's Certification required upon hire).

• Ability to follow recipes accurately and work efficiently and calmly.

• A strong work ethic, attention to detail, and a commitment to cleanliness and organization

• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic kitchen environment.

• Reliable, punctual, and a dedicated team player eager to contribute to UQBAR’s success

• Ability to stand for extended periods, bend, lift, and carry up to 50 lbs.

• At least 1 year of experience in a professional kitchen setting is a plus, but not required. We value a positive attitude and a willingness to learn above all!

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 BELOW. We look forward to meeting you!