Job Description

Q39 is Growing - Join Our Culinary Team!


Kansas City's award-winning BBQ is expanding! We're opening a new location in Lawrence, Kansas, and we're building an exceptional culinary team to help us bring our passion for world-class BBQ and scratch-made, chef-inspired cuisine to even more guests.





"Real Pitmasters Don't Watch the Clock -- They Watch the Flame."


Welcome to Q39 BBQ!



The

Pitmaster

is the heart of Q39's award-winning barbecue operation. This role is responsible for managing all aspects of meat smoking -- from trimming and seasoning to cooking and holding -- using traditional wood-burning pits and smokers. Precision, patience, and a deep respect for the craft of barbecue are essential.

Key Responsibilities:

Operate and maintain commercial smokers and pits, ensuring proper wood use, temperature control, and smoke flow. Trim, season, and prepare meats (brisket, ribs, pork, chicken, etc.) according to Q39 standards. Monitor internal meat temperatures and smoking times for consistency and quality. Coordinate timing of meat pulls for lunch and dinner service. Track yields and maintain daily production logs. Maintain cleanliness, organization, and safety in the smokehouse and prep area. Communicate with prep cooks, line cooks, and management to ensure accurate forecasting and readiness. Ensure compliance with all food safety standards and regulations.
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Qualifications:

2+ years of experience in a pitmaster, smokehouse, or BBQ-specific cooking role. Strong understanding of meat preparation, smoke profiles, and cook times. Familiarity with commercial smokers (Southern Pride, Ole Hickory, offset smokers, etc.). Ability to work independently and manage long cook cycles overnight or early morning. Excellent time management, communication, and problem-solving skills. Must be able to lift 50+ lbs and work in hot environments for extended periods. ServSafe certification preferred or willingness to obtain.
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Physical Requirements:

Stand for long periods; lift heavy trays of meat. Handle high heat, sharp tools, and fast-paced kitchen environments. Ability to smell, observe, and taste for quality control.
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Why Work at Q39?

Work with a nationally recognized BBQ team and brand Competitive pay, shift meals, and growth opportunities Hands-on experience with traditional and modern smoking techniques * Pride in serving award-winning, handcrafted barbecue