Let’s talk about Chili’s. When people think about casual dining jobs, Applebee’s and TGI Friday’s come to mind first. But here’s the thing: Chili’s is actually one of the better casual dining employers—higher volume means better tips, the Baby Back Ribs practically sell themselves, and the “Chili’s vibe” creates a fun (if chaotic) work environment.
Here’s what most people don’t realize about learning how to get hired at Chili’s: they’re constantly hiring (1,600+ locations have high turnover), the tips are solid ($16-28/hour total for servers), the hiring process is fast (1-2 weeks), and the team atmosphere is legit. Plus, they’re owned by Brinker International (also owns Maggiano’s), which means better corporate support than independent restaurants.
I’ve helped thousands of people figure out how to get hired at Chili’s, and I’m about to break down everything you need to know. The pay structure (tip pooling vs. individual tips), the benefits (better than most casual dining), the application secrets, interview strategies that work, and what it’s really like slinging Skillet Queso and Presidente Margaritas during dinner rush.
Whether you’re 18 and need your first server job, 28 and want consistent money with flexibility, or 45 and looking for supplemental income with a fun team, Chili’s has positions. This complete guide on how to get hired at Chili’s covers every step from clicking “apply” to carrying your first tray of sizzling fajitas.
Let’s get you hired. 🌶️
The Quick Facts About How to Get Hired at Chili’s
Here’s what you need to know right now:
💰 Starting Pay (Server): $2.13-$5/hour + tips (total $16-28/hour with tips)
💰 Starting Pay (Kitchen/Host): $12-$17/hour
📍 Location Count: 1,600+ restaurants in 31 countries
👥 Employees: 110,000+ team members
⏱️ Time to Get Hired: 1-2 weeks average
🎂 Minimum Age: 16 years old for host positions, 18+ for server (varies by state)
💉 Drug Test: Generally NO (most locations don’t test)
🔍 Background Check: YES (fairly lenient)
🎓 Education Required: None
🍽️ Restaurant Experience: NOT required (comprehensive training)
📅 Schedule: Very flexible, part-time and full-time available
🎯 Hiring Speed: FAST (restaurants always need people)
💪 Physical Demands: High (fast-paced, on your feet all shift)
🎉 Culture: Fun, team-oriented, high-energy
Now let’s break down why Chili’s is worth considering and how to actually get the job.
Why Chili’s is Actually Better Than Most Casual Dining
Before diving into how to get hired at Chili’s, let’s talk about why servers choose Chili’s.
1. The Tips Are Better Than Applebee’s (Volume Matters)
Server earnings breakdown:
- Base pay: $2.13-5/hour (tipped minimum wage)
- Tips: $12-23/hour average (varies by location and shift)
- Total: $16-28/hour typically
Why Chili’s tips better:
- Higher check averages (Baby Back Ribs, margaritas, appetizers)
- Faster table turnover (more tables = more tips)
- Skillet Queso is addictive (everyone orders it)
- Margarita program is strong (alcohol increases checks)
- Better reputation than some competitors
Good shifts (dinner, weekends):
- $22-35/hour with tips
- Walk out with $140-280 per shift
Slower shifts (weekday lunch):
- $14-20/hour with tips
- Still solid money
Real talk: Chili’s isn’t fine dining, but the menu is popular enough that tables spend well. You’re doing volume, and volume = money.
2. The “Chili’s Energy” is Real
Work culture at Chili’s:
- High-energy environment
- Music in the dining room
- Team camaraderie strong
- Post-shift drinks common (responsibly)
- Less corporate-stiff than some chains
Many servers say: “It’s exhausting, but it’s fun.”
3. Better Training Than Many Casual Dining Places
Chili’s has “Chili’s University”:
- Structured training program
- Menu certification required
- Position-specific training
- Ongoing development
This means:
- You’re better prepared
- Support during learning curve
- Clear expectations
- Career path guidance
4. Career Advancement is Real
Chili’s promotes from within:
Typical path: Server → Server Trainer → Shift Leader → Manager → General Manager
Timeline:
- Server Trainer: 6-12 months
- Shift Leader: 1-2 years
- Manager: 2-4 years
- GM: 4-7+ years ($55-80K+ salary)
Brinker invests in development. If you want restaurant management career, Chili’s provides the path.
5. The Schedule Flexibility Works
You can:
- Work around school schedules
- Request specific days off
- Pick up extra shifts
- Trade shifts easily
- Work part-time (15-30 hours) or full-time (30-40 hours)
- Choose mostly lunch or mostly dinner (once established)
This matters for:
- Students
- Parents
- Second job situations
- Variable income needs
6. Team Member Dining Discount
50% off when you’re not working
- Valid at all Chili’s locations
- Also valid at Maggiano’s (Brinker’s upscale concept)
- Significant savings if you eat out
Plus free meal during shift (most locations)
- Choose from employee menu
- Saves $8-12 per shift
- Adds up to $150-250/month in food savings
7. No Experience Required (They Expect to Train)
Chili’s regularly hires:
- First-time servers
- High school students (for host positions)
- Career changers
- People with zero restaurant background
Training is thorough. You’ll learn the Chili’s way from scratch.
What Jobs Can You Get at Chili’s?
Let’s break down positions when learning how to get hired at Chili’s.
Server** – $2.13-$5/hour + tips ($16-$28/hour total)
This is the money position. You’re waiting tables, building tips, working the floor.
What you’ll do:
- Greet guests and build rapport
- Suggest menu items (upselling is expected)
- Take drink and food orders
- Deliver food (sometimes help food runners)
- Check on tables (timing is key)
- Process payments
- Bus tables (varies by location)
- Maintain section cleanliness
- Suggestive sell appetizers, desserts, drinks
Best for: Outgoing people, hustlers, multitaskers, those who thrive in chaos, team players, money-motivated individuals.
Physical demands: VERY HIGH
- On your feet 6-9 hours straight
- Carrying heavy trays (fajita skillets are hot!)
- Constant movement (you’ll hit 15,000+ steps)
- Fast-paced during rushes
- Mental multitasking (4-6 tables simultaneously)
Real talk: Chili’s dinner rush is INTENSE. Friday/Saturday 6-9pm, you’re slammed. Kitchen is backed up. Guests are impatient. Margaritas need refills. Queso arrives late. It’s controlled chaos. But when you walk with $180 in your pocket after a 7-hour shift, it feels worth it.
Minimum age: 18 in most states (some allow 16 with restrictions)
Schedule: Lunch shifts (11am-4pm), dinner shifts (4pm-11pm), weekends
Tips breakdown (typical server):
- Weekday lunch (5 hours): $60-100 tips
- Weekday dinner (6 hours): $100-160 tips
- Weekend dinner (7 hours): $140-280 tips
Weekly example (4 dinner shifts + 1 lunch):
- 29 hours worked
- $500-750 in tips
- Total earnings: $550-800/week
- Monthly: $2,200-3,200
Host/Hostess – $12-$15/hour
Managing seating, greeting guests, handling waitlists.
What you’ll do:
- Greet every guest with energy
- Manage reservation system
- Seat guests (balance server sections)
- Handle waitlists during busy times (there will be many)
- Answer phones
- Support servers (run food, refill drinks)
- Keep entrance area clean and organized
Best for: Friendly people, organized multitaskers, those who prefer hourly pay over tips, younger workers (16+), people wanting restaurant experience without serving pressure.
Physical demands: Moderate to high. Constant standing, walking, but not carrying heavy trays.
Minimum age: 16 years old typically
Why some prefer it:
- No tip variability (consistent paycheck)
- Less pressure than serving
- Still part of the team
- Good stepping stone to serving
Real talk: Host position at Chili’s is BUSY. Friday/Saturday nights, you’re managing 45-minute waits, angry hungry people, and servers fighting over sections. But it’s great experience.
Food Runner/Expo – $12-$16/hour + tip share
Delivering food from kitchen to tables, supporting servers.
What you’ll do:
- Run food to correct tables (timing matters)
- Ensure order accuracy
- Communicate with kitchen
- Assist servers during rushes
- Check food quality before delivery
- Clear plates (support bussers)
Best for: Fast-paced workers, team players, those who want restaurant experience without guest interaction pressure, stepping stone to serving.
Physical demands: VERY HIGH. Constant movement, carrying hot plates and skillets, speed is essential.
Tip share: Usually receive percentage of server tips (varies by location, typically $2-5/hour extra)
This is often how people start before becoming servers.
Bartender – $2.13-$5/hour + tips ($20-$35/hour total)
Making drinks, serving bar guests, supporting servers with drink orders.
What you’ll do:
- Make margaritas (Chili’s is known for them)
- Craft cocktails, beer, wine
- Serve bar guests
- Help servers with drink orders
- Manage bar inventory
- Keep bar area clean
- Check IDs
Requirements:
- 21+ years old
- Bartending experience preferred (but can be trained)
- Alcohol service certification
- Ability to handle high volume
Tips: Generally better than servers—bar guests tip well, especially during happy hour.
Typical earnings: $22-40/hour with tips
Real talk: Chili’s bartenders work HARD. Margarita program is huge. Friday/Saturday nights, you’re making 200+ drinks. But the money is good.
Line Cook/Prep Cook – $13-$18/hour
Cooking food, maintaining quality, supporting kitchen operations.
What you’ll do:
- Cook menu items (grill, fry, sauté stations)
- Follow recipes and portioning
- Maintain food safety standards
- Work fast during rush
- Keep kitchen clean
- Prep ingredients
- Support kitchen team
Best for: Those who prefer back-of-house, people who don’t want customer interaction, physically capable workers, team players, those who handle heat/pressure well.
Physical demands: EXTREME
- Standing entire shift
- Hot kitchen environment (90-110°F)
- Fast-paced (especially dinner rush)
- Repetitive motions
- Heavy lifting
No tips, but consistent hourly pay and no customer drama.
Minimum age: 18 typically
Career path: Prep Cook → Line Cook → Lead Cook → Kitchen Manager
Dishwasher – $12-$15/hour
Washing dishes, maintaining cleanliness, supporting kitchen.
What you’ll do:
- Wash dishes, pots, pans
- Keep dish area organized
- Support kitchen staff
- Maintain sanitation standards
- Take out trash
Best for: Entry-level workers, those wanting simplest restaurant job, reliable people who show up.
Physical demands: HIGH (hot, wet, repetitive, exhausting)
Minimum age: 16 typically
This is the entry point for many restaurant careers.
Shift Leader/Manager-in-Training – $16-$22/hour or salaried
Leading shifts, managing operations, developing toward management.
Requirements: 1-2 years Chili’s experience or restaurant management experience
Assistant Manager – Salaried $40-$55K
Supporting general manager with operations.
General Manager – Salaried $55-$80K+
Running the entire restaurant.
The Pay Structure at Chili’s
Let’s get into real money when learning how to get hired at Chili’s.
Server Pay: The Complete Breakdown
Hourly wage: $2.13-5/hour (tipped minimum, varies by state)
Tips: $12-23/hour average depending on shift and skill
Total typical earnings:
| Shift Type | Hours | Estimated Tips | Hourly Rate | Total Earned |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Weekday Lunch | 5 hours | $60-100 | $12-20/hr | $60-100 |
| Weekday Dinner | 6 hours | $100-160 | $17-27/hr | $100-160 |
| Friday Dinner | 7 hours | $140-200 | $20-29/hr | $140-200 |
| Saturday Dinner | 7 hours | $160-280 | $23-40/hr | $160-280 |
Weekly earnings example (experienced server, good location):
- 2 Friday shifts: $280-400
- 2 Saturday shifts: $320-560
- 1 Wednesday dinner: $100-160
- Total weekly: $700-1,120
- Monthly: $2,800-4,480
Average server realistically:
- $600-900/week working 25-30 hours
- $2,400-3,600/month
The reality:
- Good servers at busy locations: $20-28/hour average
- Average servers: $16-22/hour
- Slower locations/poor servers: $14-18/hour
- Bad weather/slow economy affects tips
Non-Tipped Position Pay
| Position | Starting Pay | After 1 Year | After 3 Years |
|---|---|---|---|
| Host/Hostess | $12-15/hr | $13-16/hr | $14-17/hr |
| Food Runner | $12-16/hr | $13-17/hr | $14-18/hr |
| Dishwasher | $12-15/hr | $13-16/hr | $14-17/hr |
| Line Cook | $13-18/hr | $15-20/hr | $17-23/hr |
| Shift Leader | $16-22/hr | $18-24/hr | $20-26/hr |
Tip Pooling vs. Individual Tips
This varies by location—ASK DURING INTERVIEW.
Individual tips (traditional):
- You keep what you earn
- Tip out bussers/hosts/bartenders small percentage
- Typical: Keep 90-95% of tips
Tip pooling:
- All server tips combined
- Split based on hours worked
- Some servers hate this, some like consistency
Most Chili’s locations use individual tips with tip-outs.
The Benefits Package
Understanding how to get hired at Chili’s means knowing what benefits exist.
Benefits for Full-Time Team Members (30+ hours)
Health Insurance:
- Medical, dental, vision available
- Starts after 60 days
- Cost: $40-120/paycheck
- Brinker offers decent coverage
401(k):
- Company match available
- Immediate eligibility
Paid Time Off:
- Vacation accrues with hours worked
- Full-time employees get PTO
Team Member Dining:
- 50% off at Chili’s (when not working)
- 50% off at Maggiano’s
- Free meal during shift (employee menu)
Life Insurance:
- Company-provided basic coverage
Benefits for Part-Time Team Members
Team Member Dining:
- 50% off (everyone gets this)
- Free meal during shift
Flexible Scheduling:
- Work around life commitments
Tip Opportunities:
- Immediate cash for servers/bartenders
Real talk: Chili’s benefits are standard for casual dining. Not amazing, not terrible. The real benefits are flexibility, decent tips, and team culture.
The Application Process
Alright, let’s get into the actual how to get hired at Chili’s steps.
Step 1: Apply Online or In Person
Online: Go to Chilis.com/careers or BrinkerCareers.com
In person: Walk in during slow times (2-4pm weekdays)
- Ask for manager
- Request application
- Dress business casual
- Be friendly and presentable
Pro tip: In-person often works better for restaurant jobs—managers see you’re serious.
Step 2: Complete the Application
You’ll need:
Personal Information:
- Contact details
- Work authorization
Availability:
- What days can you work?
- What shifts?
- Weekends? (ESSENTIAL for servers)
- How many hours per week?
BE FLEXIBLE. “Available any day, any time” = hired fast.
Work History:
- Previous jobs (if any)
- Restaurant experience is a plus
- No experience? That’s fine—say you’re eager to learn
Education:
- Current school or highest level
- Doesn’t matter much for hourly positions
Why Chili’s:
- Be genuine: “I want flexible work with good tips and a fun team environment”
Step 3: The Interview (Fast and Casual)
What to expect:
- Usually 15-30 minutes
- With manager or assistant manager
- At the restaurant during slow time
- Conversational
Questions focus on:
- Availability
- Customer service
- Teamwork
- Handling stress
- Reliability
Dress code for interview:
- Business casual
- Clean, neat, professional
- NOT jeans and t-shirt
Interview Questions & How to Answer
“Why do you want to work at Chili’s?”
❌ Bad: “I just need money” or “My friend works here”
✅ Good: “I want to work at Chili’s because I’m looking for a team-oriented environment where I can make good money through tips while having a flexible schedule. I’ve heard the training is solid, and I like that Chili’s has a fun, high-energy atmosphere. Plus, everyone loves the food, so I know I’ll be serving popular items, which makes the job easier.”
Why this works: Shows you researched, mentions key benefits (tips, flexibility, training, energy), understands the concept.
“What’s your availability?”
✅ Best answer: “I’m very flexible. I can work any day of the week, including nights and weekends. I understand restaurants are busiest during those times, and I’m ready to work when you need me most. I’m looking for [part-time 20-30 hours / full-time 35-40 hours] per week.”
Reality: If you say “no weekends” as a server, you won’t get hired. Weekends are when money is made.
“Have you worked in restaurants before?”
✅ If yes: “Yes, I worked at [restaurant] as a [position]. I understand the pace, the pressure during rushes, and the importance of teamwork. I’m comfortable with the demands of restaurant work.”
✅ If no: “No, but I’m a hard worker and a fast learner. I have customer service experience from [wherever], and I’m excited to learn. I understand serving is physically demanding and mentally challenging, and I’m ready for that.”
Both work. Chili’s trains thoroughly.
“How would you handle an angry guest?”
✅ Perfect answer: “I’d stay calm and friendly, listen to understand their issue without interrupting, apologize sincerely even if it wasn’t my fault, and immediately work to fix the problem. If I couldn’t resolve it, I’d get a manager quickly. Most angry guests just want to be heard and have their issue solved. I’d aim to turn their experience around so they leave happy.”
“Describe a time you worked as part of a team.”
✅ Restaurant-relevant example: “In my previous job, we had a major rush one day when we were short-staffed. I stayed past my shift, helped my coworkers, communicated constantly, and we got through it together. Teamwork in restaurants is essential—servers, kitchen, hosts, bussers all need to coordinate. I’m a team player who helps others without being asked.”
“Can you handle the physical demands—standing all shift, carrying heavy trays, working fast?”
✅ Honest and confident: “Yes, I’m physically capable and understand the job is demanding. I’m comfortable standing for long periods, lifting heavy items, and working at a fast pace. I’m in good health and ready for an active position.”
“Where do you see yourself in a year?”
✅ If career-minded: “I see myself as a top-performing server here, maybe training new servers or taking on shift leader responsibilities. I’m interested in growing with Chili’s long-term.”
✅ If just a job: “I see myself as a reliable team member who consistently provides great service and is someone the team can count on.”
Both are fine. Be genuine.
“Why should we hire you?”
✅ Strong close: “You should hire me because I’m reliable, I’m friendly and people-oriented, I’m available when you need me most—weekends and evenings—and I’m ready to work hard. I’ll show up on time every shift, learn quickly, and be a positive team member. I’m genuinely excited about working at Chili’s and ready to start immediately.”
Questions YOU Should Ask
✅ Important questions:
- “How does tip pooling work here?” (IMPORTANT—need to know)
- “What does a typical shift look like?”
- “What’s the training process?”
- “What makes someone successful as a server here?”
- “When would I be able to start if hired?”
What Chili’s is Looking For
Understanding how to get hired at Chili’s means knowing their priorities:
Key Qualities
High energy:
- Upbeat personality
- Positive attitude
- Enthusiasm
Team players:
- Support coworkers
- Communicate well
- No drama
Reliable:
- Show up every shift
- On time
- Dependable
Hustle:
- Work fast
- Multitask
- Stay busy
Guest-focused:
- Friendly service
- Solve problems
- Create experiences
Coachable:
- Accept feedback
- Learn quickly
- Follow systems
Background Check & Drug Testing
Background Check
Yes, Chili’s runs background checks.
What they check:
- Criminal history (7 years typically)
- Employment verification (sometimes)
What typically disqualifies:
- Recent violent crimes
- Theft (especially food service)
- Sex offenses
- Falsifying application
What usually doesn’t:
- Minor offenses years ago
- Traffic violations
- Arrests without convictions
Chili’s is fairly lenient. Second chances given.
Timeline: 3-7 business days
Drug Testing
Generally NO drug testing for hourly positions.
Exception: Some franchises may test, management sometimes tested.
Reality: Most servers, hosts, cooks, dishwashers are NOT drug tested.
Your First Day at Chili’s
Welcome to Chili’s!
Orientation
Length: 2-4 hours
What you’ll do:
- Paperwork (I-9, W-4, direct deposit)
- Watch training videos
- Tour restaurant
- Meet team
- Learn policies
What to bring:
- Government ID
- Social Security card or birth certificate + ID
- Bank account info
- Pen
Your Uniform
Servers:
- Black pants (not jeans)
- Black non-slip shoes (REQUIRED)
- Black belt
- Chili’s will provide shirt/apron
- Name tag
Kitchen:
- Black pants
- Non-slip shoes
- Chili’s provides chef coat
- Hat/hairnet
Buy good non-slip shoes BEFORE you start. Your feet will thank you.
Training Period
Length: 3-10 days depending on position
Server training:
- Day 1-2: Shadow experienced server
- Day 3-4: Menu training, food tasting
- Day 5-6: POS system training
- Day 7-8: Small section (2-3 tables)
- Day 9-10: Full section
Training is hands-on. You learn by doing.
Chili’s University modules:
- Online training courses
- Menu certification required
- Guest service standards
First Paycheck
Pay schedule: Bi-weekly (every 2 weeks)
Payday: Friday typically
Tips: Cash daily (servers, bartenders)
First check: 2-3 weeks (just hourly wages—tips are daily)
What It’s Actually Like Working at Chili’s
Real talk about the day-to-day.
Your Schedule
Shifts:
- Lunch: 11am-4pm or 5pm
- Dinner: 4pm-11pm or midnight
- Weekend late: Until 1am some locations
Hours:
- Part-time: 15-30 hours/week
- Full-time: 30-40 hours/week
Scheduling:
- Posted 1-2 weeks ahead
- Digital system
- Shift trades common and easy
The Pace (It’s WILD)
Slow times:
- Weekday afternoons (2-5pm)
- Late nights after dinner rush
- January/February (post-holidays)
Busy times:
- Lunch rush: 12-1:30pm weekdays
- Dinner rush: 6-9pm every night
- Friday/Saturday: ALL NIGHT LONG (5-11pm)
- Happy Hour: 3-6pm (bar is slammed)
During dinner rush:
- You have 5-6 tables simultaneously
- Kitchen is backed up
- Guests want refills NOW
- Margaritas keep coming
- Queso is always late
- You’re literally running
- Sweat is real
- It’s exhausting and exhilarating
The Physical Reality
You will:
- Walk 12,000-20,000 steps per shift
- Carry heavy trays (fajita skillets are HEAVY and HOT)
- Stand/move 6-9 hours straight
- Sweat during rushes
- Develop amazing calves
- Be exhausted at end of shift
First two weeks: Your feet and legs will HURT.
After a month: Your body adapts. You’re a machine.
The Money (Real Examples)
Good server at busy Chili’s:
- 4 shifts per week (28 hours)
- Average $25/hour with tips
- Weekly: $700
- Monthly: $2,800
Average server:
- 4-5 shifts per week (25-30 hours)
- Average $18/hour with tips
- Weekly: $450-540
- Monthly: $1,800-2,160
Friday/Saturday nights (the money makers):
- 7-hour shift
- $180-250 in tips
- You walk out with CASH
The Culture
The good:
✅ Solid tips ($16-28/hour with tips)
✅ Cash daily (don’t wait for paycheck)
✅ Fun team atmosphere (high energy, tight crews)
✅ Fast hiring (need job? You’ll get it)
✅ Flexible scheduling (work around life)
✅ Popular menu (items sell themselves)
✅ Good training (Chili’s University)
✅ Career path (server to GM is real)
The challenges:
❌ Physically exhausting (your feet will hurt)
❌ Weekend/night work required (always)
❌ Difficult guests (complaints happen)
❌ Kitchen delays (you deal with angry customers)
❌ Inconsistent tips (slow days happen)
❌ High turnover (people quit constantly)
❌ Margarita spills (happens to everyone)
Insider Tips for Getting Hired
1. Apply in person 2-4pm
Managers are available, shows initiative.
2. Emphasize weekend availability
“I can work every Friday and Saturday night” = hired.
3. Be high-energy in interview
Chili’s wants energetic people. Show enthusiasm.
4. Mention you’re available immediately
“I can start this week” is music to their ears.
5. Apply to multiple locations
Each Chili’s hires independently.
6. Follow up after 2-3 days
Call and ask for hiring manager.
7. Ask about tip pooling
Need to know how tips work at that location.
8. Show up sober and presentable
Obvious but important.
9. Apply during high-turnover times
Summer, back-to-school, post-holidays = lots of openings.
10. Be honest about experience
They’d rather train willing learners than fix bad habits.
FAQs About How to Get Hired at Chili’s
Q: How much do Chili’s servers really make?
A: $16-28/hour with tips typically. Good servers at busy locations make $22-28/hour.
Q: How long does hiring take?
A: 1-2 weeks from application to start date typically.
Q: What’s the minimum age?
A: 16 for host, 18 for server (varies by state), 21 for bartender.
Q: Do you need restaurant experience?
A: No. Chili’s trains thoroughly from scratch.
Q: Do they drug test?
A: Generally no for hourly positions.
Q: How does tip pooling work?
A: Varies by location—ASK during interview. Most locations do individual tips with small tip-outs.
Q: Can you work part-time?
A: Yes! Most servers are part-time.
Q: Is it hard work?
A: Yes. Physically demanding, mentally stressful, fast-paced. But manageable.
Q: What if you can’t work weekends?
A: You probably won’t get hired as a server. Weekends are essential.
Q: Can you move up?
A: Yes. Server → Trainer → Shift Leader → Manager is common.
Q: Is Chili’s better than Applebee’s?
A: Tips are generally better due to higher check averages. Similar work culture.
Q: Do you get free food?
A: Free meal during shift (employee menu). 50% off when not working.
Chili’s vs. Other Casual Dining
| Factor | Chili’s | Applebee’s | TGI Friday’s | Olive Garden |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Server Tips | $16-28/hr ✅ | $15-25/hr | $16-26/hr | $18-30/hr |
| Menu Popularity | High ✅ | Medium | Medium | High |
| Training Quality | Excellent ✅ | Good | Good | Excellent |
| Team Culture | Fun/energetic ✅ | Variable | Fun | Professional |
| Hiring Speed | Fast ✅ | Fast | Fast | Medium |
Chili’s advantages:
- Better tips than Applebee’s (higher check averages)
- Strong training program
- Fun, high-energy culture
- Popular menu (Baby Back Ribs, Skillet Queso)
- Brinker corporate support
Alright, Let’s Get You Hired at Chili’s
So there you have it—everything about how to get hired at Chili’s.
Is it easy? No.
Is it exhausting? Absolutely.
Can you make $600-900/week working 25-30 hours? Yes.
If you want solid tips, fast hiring, flexible scheduling, and a fun team atmosphere, Chili’s is a strong casual dining choice.
Your Action Plan (Do This Today):
- ✅ Go to Chilis.com/careers or apply in person
- ✅ Apply to 3-5 locations near you
- ✅ Emphasize weekend/evening availability
- ✅ Show high energy in interview
- ✅ Ask about tip pooling structure
- ✅ Be ready to start immediately
- ✅ Follow up after 2-3 days
- ✅ Buy good non-slip shoes BEFORE starting
- ✅ Prepare for physically demanding work
- ✅ Get ready to walk out with cash daily!
Chili’s is hiring. Restaurants always need staff. Now that you know how to get hired at Chili’s, you’re ready to start serving.
Go get that apron. 🌶️
