Meat Carver/Line Leader-Johnson

Wright's Barbecue; Springdale (AR); On-site; USD 35,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

Wright’s Barbecue seeks a Meat Carver/Line Leader to slice brisket and other smoked meats to spec, while leading the carving line and ensuring guests receive Wright’s experience.

You will maintain portion sizes, train teammates on carving techniques, and supervise line operations during peak periods, upholding quality and hospitality.

Qualifications

• Previous professional knife experience.
• Experience slicing brisket or other premium meats.
• Ability to maintain speed and precision during high-volume service.
• Leadership experience in a restaurant or food service environment.
• Strong communication and coaching skills.
• Ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 50 pounds.
• Flexible schedule including nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Preferred: Barbecue restaurant experience.
• Preferred: High-volume restaurant experience.
• Preferred: Food Handler Certification (or ability to obtain).

Responsibilities

• Expertly slice brisket, pork, turkey, sausage, and other smoked meats to Wright’s specifications.
• Maintain consistent portion sizes while maximizing yield and presentation.
• Lead the service line during peak periods, ensuring speed, accuracy, and teamwork.
• Train and coach team members on carving techniques, food presentation, and line procedures.
• Monitor product quality and communicate with the Smokehouse Team regarding product needs.
• Ensure meats are held, handled, and served according to food safety standards.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitized carving station throughout every shift.
• Assist in opening, closing, prep work, and inventory as assigned.
• Communicate effectively with kitchen, cashiers, and managers to maintain smooth service.
• Model Wright’s Barbecue’s standards for hospitality, professionalism, and teamwork.

Skills

Knife skills

Brisket slicing

High-volume service

Leadership

Communication

Stamina & lifting

Flexible schedule

Job description

Position Summary

At Wright’s Barbecue, the Meat Carver is more than someone who slices brisket—they are the final craftsman before every tray reaches our guests. As a Line Leader, you are responsible for delivering consistent portions, maintaining product quality, leading the carving line, and ensuring every guest receives the Wright’s experience. This role requires exceptional knife skills, strong leadership, and a passion for barbecue craftsmanship.

Essential Responsibilities

• Expertly slice brisket, pork, turkey, sausage, and other smoked meats to Wright’s specifications.

• Maintain consistent portion sizes while maximizing yield and presentation.

• Lead the service line during peak periods, ensuring speed, accuracy, and teamwork.

• Train and coach team members on carving techniques, food presentation, and line procedures.

• Monitor product quality and communicate with the Smokehouse Team regarding product needs.

• Ensure meats are held, handled, and served according to food safety standards.

• Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitized carving station throughout every shift.

• Assist in opening, closing, prep work, and inventory as assigned.

• Communicate effectively with kitchen, cashiers, and managers to maintain smooth service.

• Model Wright’s Barbecue’s standards for hospitality, professionalism, and teamwork.

Qualifications

Required

• Previous professional knife experience.

• Experience slicing brisket or other premium meats preferred.

• Ability to maintain speed and precision during high-volume service.

• Leadership experience in a restaurant or food service environment.

• Strong communication and coaching skills.

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

• Flexible schedule including nights, weekends, and holidays.

Preferred Experience

• Barbecue restaurant experience.

• High-volume restaurant experience.

• Food Handler Certification (or ability to obtain).

Leadership Expectations

As a Line Leader, you are expected to:

• Lead by example every shift.

• Hold yourself and teammates accountable to Wright’s standards.

• Coach in the moment with respect and professionalism.

• Protect product quality above all else.

• Create an environment where urgency and hospitality work together.

Success Looks Like

• Every tray leaves the line looking exceptional.

• Guests receive consistent portions and premium quality.

• Ticket times remain efficient without sacrificing craftsmanship.

• Team members know what excellence looks like because they see it demonstrated daily.

• The carving line stays organized, clean, and prepared throughout service.

Core Values

At Wright’s Barbecue, we hire people who live our values:

• Unrivaled Quality We honor our craft and never compromise.

• World-Class Hospitality Every guest deserves an unforgettable experience.

• Culture is the Key We protect the Smokehouse and each other.

• Operational Excellence We do things the Wright Way, every time.

• Empowering Individuals We develop leaders who take ownership.

• Growth Mindset We are always learning and improving.