Boston Fish Market in Wheeling is looking for urgent, detail-oriented, and high-energy Food Runners to join our front-of-house service team. Famous across Chicagoland for serving ocean-fresh seafood, massive portions, and high-volume dining, our kitchen line moves fast, and our food runners are the crucial bridge between the kitchen and our guests. As a Food Runner, you are responsible for ensuring every plate leaves the expo line hot, beautifully presented, and accurate to the table ticket before delivering it swiftly to the guest. If you thrive in a fast-paced environment and take pride in precision and speed, this is a fast-moving, rewarding role on our floor. Key Responsibilities & Expectations Plate Assembly & Final Quality Control Inspect every dish at the expo line before it leaves the kitchen to guarantee proper garnishes, correct temperatures, modified requests, and massive presentation standards. Match food items directly to seat numbers and ticket modifications to ensure perfect, trayless or tray delivery without asking guests 'Who ordered what?' Maintain clear, real-time communication with line cooks, kitchen expeditors, and servers to keep ticket flow moving smoothly during peak rushes. High-Speed Table Delivery & Service Support Deliver hot entrees, cold raw bar platters, and side dishes rapidly to dining rooms and bar tables. Describe dishes confidently upon presentation to elevate the guest experience. Assist servers by pre-bussing empty plates, clearing seafood shells, refilling water glasses, and resetting tables during heavy volume. Station Prep & Cleanliness Keep the expo window, condiment stations, tray stands, and runner service areas stocked, clean, and organized throughout the shift. Handle sauce cups, garnishes, lemons, and serving utensils according to strict sanitation standards.
Qualifications & Requirements Energy & Stamina:
High energy, quick on your feet, and able to maintain speed and composure during multi-hour rushes. Attention to
Detail:
Sharp focus on plate presentation, order accuracy, and special guest allergies/modifications.
Team-First Mentality:
Willingness to jump in where needed—helping servers, bussers, and kitchen staff stay synchronized.
Physical Capabilities:
Ability to stand and walk rapidly for extended shifts, balance heavy food trays safely, and lift up to 30-40 lbs.
Experience:
Previous food runner, busser, or restaurant experience in high-volume dining is preferred, but we will train motivated candidates with a strong work ethic.
Certifications:
Valid state Food Handler certification required upon hire.
What We Offer Strong Earning Potential:
Hourly wage plus tip-outs driven by high-volume table turnover.
Fast-Paced, Engaging Environment:
Continuous movement and active shifts where time flies. Pathway to
Server Roles:
Great entry point into high-end seafood dining with direct training paths to become a server or bartender.
Perks:
Employee meal discounts and a supportive, team-driven kitchen and floor crew.