Chicago Suburbs - Restaurant Management Internship

Internship Opportunities

We are NOW HIRING for our Internship Opportunities!

Lettuce Entertain You is excited to offer a variety of options for restaurant management and culinary internships. We offer two levels of Restaurant Management Internships that take place over the summer months. In addition to our summer programs, we offer culinary externships throughout the school year and summer.

This program will run from May 26 through August 4, 2026, approximately 10 weeks in length. Applications will be accepted until Friday, April 10, 2026; late applications will not be considered. Interns are responsible for their own housing and transportation. Please email mbanovic@lettuce.com with any questions.

Our Level 2 internship program is BY INVITATION ONLY.

Responsibilities

Both Level 1 & 2 Interns

TO ALL CHICAGO-BASED INTERNS : Please be aware that working all four days of the Windy City Smokeout festival (July 9-12, 2026) are mandatory. Interns in other markets with interest in working either event, may do so with prior approval from partners and / or general managers. All interns will be responsible for any travel and / or accommodations needed during either event.

Level 1 Summer Internship Program

Interns are hired to work an hourly role in one of our restaurants in Illinois, Washington D.C., Minnesota, Nevada, Texas, Florida or Tennessee.

Interns attend weekly meetings where Lettuce industry experts cover topics such as restaurant financials, menu creation, marketing and more.

The Level 1 internship includes a group project with final presentation at a live expo.

Level 2 Summer Internship Program

Positions include a variety of restaurant opportunities based on experience!

Level 2 includes completing a restaurant-based Project Checklist and an individually curated experience depending on the restaurant's needs and the intern's level of expertise.

Interns are hired to work in a leadership role in one of our restaurants in Illinois, Washington D.C., Minnesota, Nevada, Texas, Florida or Tennessee.

Restaurant Management Interns participate in and complete internship program activities.

Essential Functions

Participate in and complete weekly seminars, management checklists, management feedback, summer festivals (e.g., Windy City Smokeout for Chicago area interns), restaurant concept project, Intern Expo, group events and other program activities

Perform essential functions and key responsibilities listed in hourly job description (e.g., host, server, runner, busser, cook, etc.) for the assigned role determined by intern's supervising manager at designated restaurant location

Safely and effectively use and operate all necessary tools and equipment

Work a variety of days and shifts including weekends and nights

Effectively communicate in order to perform and follow job requirements in written and spoken direction

Multitask calmly and effectively in a busy, stressful environment

Work in a confined, crowded space of variable light, noise and temperature levels

Ability to move and lift up to 10 pounds, frequently move and / or lift up to 25 pounds, and occasionally move and / or lift up to 50 pounds

Ability to sit or stand for an entire shift and move safely through all areas of the restaurant, which may include stairs, uneven or slick surfaces

Key Responsibilities and Duties

Ensure the overall guest experience exceeds expectations and anticipate guests' needs

Greet guests with a warm, sincere smile

Use tact and good judgment when dealing with guest challenges and respond to guest needs with patience and courtesy

Proficiently use and operate all necessary tools and equipment

Comply with all safety and sanitation guidelines and procedures

Follow all rules, policies, procedures and conditions of employment, including those outlined in the Employee Handbook

Get along well with others and be a team player

Other duties will be assigned as needed

Qualifications

Level 1 Summer Internship Program

• At least one year of hospitality experience is required. Customer service experience will be considered.

Level 2 Summer Internship Program

Applicants must have must have the following to be considered :

Successfully completed a Level 1 Lettuce Internship

Consistently worked within the restaurant industry for at least 4 years, with a minimum of 2 years serving experience.

Salary Range

USD $15.00 - USD $20.00 / Yr.