Server - Soho House Chicago

About the role

A Server at Soho House Chicago ensures members and guests receive attentive, knowledgeable service while maintaining operational standards that reflect the club's elevated expectations. The role involves explaining menu items, flagging allergies, and discussing pairing options to build trust and elevate the guest experience in every interaction. You will act as the visible point of contact, translating the venue's concept into attentive, polished service that feels personal and seamless. Success in this position depends on consistency, emotional intelligence, and the ability to remain calm while managing multiple priorities in a social setting. You will partner closely with both Front of House and Back of House teams to keep service momentum and uphold the house rhythm. Reliability is the most valued trait, and your presence will help define the tone of the dining room from greeting to farewell. Attitude matters more than experience, and on-the-job training is provided to those who demonstrate ownership and curiosity.

Key facts

What you'll do

Explain menu items, allergies, and pairing options to members and guests to elevate the dining experience and support informed decision-making.

Clean and stock the server alley and bar area, ensuring silverware, plates, and glassware are polished and ready for service at all times.

Use menu knowledge to make confident suggestions when members or guests request guidance, enhancing their visit with thoughtful recommendations.

Perform additional duties as assigned by a supervisor or manager, adapting to immediate needs without compromising service quality.

Collaborate with Front of House and Back of House colleagues to maintain smooth service flow and timely order delivery.

Monitor the dining room and service stations to anticipate needs, replenish supplies, and respond quickly to guest requests.

Uphold operational standards by following Club School training schedules and demonstrating competency in assigned procedures.

Work flexible shifts, including weekends and holidays, aligning with business demands and venue requirements.

Accept direction gracefully while maintaining autonomous operation within a team environment, balancing initiative with coordination.

Hold tips certification and demonstrate basic POS knowledge to ensure accurate order processing and accountabilities.

Requirements

The posting states a bachelor's degree requirement; A minimum of 2+ years' experience in a comparable server role is required to ensure familiarity with high-volume service standards.

You solve problems quickly and calmly while thriving in fast-paced, high-volume environments that test composure and focus.

You show hospitality, approachability, and respect toward colleagues and guests in every interaction and decision.

You demonstrate competency as outlined in the training schedule and Club School, completing required modules and checkpoints.

You work flexible shifts, including weekends and holidays, as needed to support venue operations and member expectations.

You accept direction while maintaining autonomous operation within a team environment, balancing guidance with ownership.

You hold tips certification and possess basic POS knowledge to contribute accurately and efficiently from day one.

Practical notes

Objects are grasped, turned, and held with hands during service duties, requiring manual dexterity and care.

Movement occurs frequently across the property at a fast pace during shifts, demanding physical coordination and spatial awareness.

At least 20 pounds are lifted, with activities including lifting, cleaning, and stooping performed regularly as part of service responsibilities.

Kneeling, bending, crouching, and climbing occur occasionally, requiring flexibility and safe movement practices.

Extended periods involve standing, walking, lifting, and bending, so physical endurance is essential for consistent performance.

Bending, stooping, lifting, reaching, pushing, twisting, walking, crouching, and squatting are performed as needed to maintain service areas and support operations.

Typical interview steps

Hospitality interviews usually focus on experience, availability, and how you handle busy service, so come prepared with clear examples.

Candidates may be asked about a difficult customer or a busy shift, highlighting your problem-solving and emotional control.

Enthusiasm, reliability, and a willingness to learn matter more than formal qualifications, though the degree requirement remains in place.

Interviewers at venues often look for energy, availability, and calm under pressure during the hiring process.

Mentioning specific venues or events you have worked adds credibility and helps interviewers contextualize your experience.

Good to know

Service roles rely on clear communication and strict adherence to safety standards to protect members and guests.

POS systems and certification protocols support accurate order processing and help maintain service consistency.

Physical endurance is required for standing, lifting, and frequent movement throughout extended shifts.

Team collaboration drives successful member interactions in hospitality settings, influencing overall atmosphere and satisfaction.

General industry training methods develop technical and managerial skills over time, creating pathways for internal growth.

Questions to ask

Useful questions for the interview: what a typical week looks like, how work is assigned, what tools the team uses, and how feedback works.

Asking how the role has changed recently and what the team wishes it had known when joining is also reasonable and encouraged.

Questions about the manager's priorities are especially valued and can demonstrate your engagement with the position.

Career growth

Hospitality careers grow from entry roles to supervisor, manager, and venue leadership positions, with increasing responsibility and scope.

Many professionals move between hotels, restaurants, and events, applying their skills across different environments and ownership models.

Skills in scheduling, ordering, and guest relations open management paths, allowing for strategic contributions to venue operations.

Hospitality careers reward versatility and service instinct, with those who adapt well often advancing more quickly.

Staff who learn ordering, scheduling, and guest relations quickly are promoted first, gaining visibility and responsibility within the organization.