Join the PINK MU CRU! We’re hiring for the position below:

PINK MU Operations Lead

River North, Chicago, IL

About PINK MU

Our mission is to create meaningful connections in Chicago via unapologetically authentic Korean food. As a small but growing business, we're looking for someone who is eager to help PINK MU scale thoughtfully while staying true to our values. 

We lead with authenticity, honoring Korean food and culture with integrity and lived experience. We practice consciousness by making thoughtful decisions for our customers, team, and community. We believe in empowerment, giving each team member ownership and the confidence to make an impact. We embrace innovation by continually learning and improving ways to serve and represent our community.

Position Summary

We're seeking an organized, proactive, and resourceful part-time Operations Lead to help oversee the day-to-day operations of our business, both BOH and FOH. This role is ideal for someone who thrives in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment and enjoys wearing multiple hats.

This person will serve as the founder’s right hand, ensuring our daily operations and pop-ups run smoothly. They’ll help create the structure that allows our business to grow sustainably. As PM evolves, there will be intentional opportunities to grow with the brand.

The Ideal Kimbap Cru Candidate

The ideal candidate is enthused by the challenges and opportunities of a growing small business, where no two days look exactly the same. They will develop and improve systems, enhance the customer experience, and make our business 1% better every day.

We're looking for someone who:

  • Appreciates good food, good people and cares deeply about hospitality 

  • Takes initiative, is a strong communicator, and values accountability

  • Is a natural problem-solver who adapts quickly when priorities shift

  • Has strong attention to detail and takes pride in delivering consistency

  • Can work scrappy and get the job done

Responsibilities

  • Manage day-to-day business operations and kitchen production (ingredient prep, kimbap rolling, etc.)

  • Ensure food safety, cleanliness, and quality standards are consistently met

  • Help develop and improve operational systems and workflows

  • Support customer service and resolve fulfillment issues professionally

  • Step in wherever needed to support the team and keep operations running steadily

Qualifications

  • 2+ years of experience in restaurants/foodservice, hospitality, and/or operations management

  • Professional culinary experience or exceptional home cooking skills

  • Strong organizational, time-management, and interpersonal communication skills

  • Availability for ~15–25 hours per week, including evenings and weekends

  • Ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 50 pounds

  • Comfortable using Google Workspace and POS systems (Square experience is a plus)

  • Nice-to-haves:

    • Experience creating or improving operational systems

    • Conversational/intermediate Spanish proficiency, or willingness to learn

    • A willingness to appear in or support social media content

Why Join PINK MU?

This is an opportunity to create a meaningful impact on a small and growing Chicago Korean food business. You'll work closely with the founder, Holly, to help shape the future of the brand and build systems that support the next growth stage.

We are also investing in YOU and your potential. We are fully committed to supporting your growth as you build your future with us. If you have passion for helping a small business thrive while prioritizing your personal development, we'd love to hear from you.

apply now