Last Updated: March 31, 2026
Chili’s Grill & Bar Application (2026) – Jobs, Pay & How to Apply Online
Quick Answer: Chili’s Grill & Bar accepts applications online at ChilisJobs.com. Most entry-level positions pay $13–$19 per hour depending on location and role. The application takes 10–15 minutes and requires basic work history. Apply directly through their official careers portal for fastest processing and immediate confirmation.
By the Numbers
| Metric | Data | Source | Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Locations (Worldwide) | 1,600+ | Chili’s Official | 2025 |
| US Locations | ~1,200 | Chili’s Careers | 2025 |
| Total Employees | 70,000+ | Chili’s Official | 2025 |
| Entry-Level Hourly Pay | $13–$19/hr | Glassdoor, Indeed, PayScale | 2025–2026 |
| Minimum Age Required | 16+ (18+ for alcohol) | Chili’s Careers, Indeed | 2026 |
| Glassdoor Rating | 3.6/5.0 | Glassdoor | 2025–2026 |
| Application Time | 10–15 minutes | User Reports | 2025–2026 |
| Parent Company | Brinker International | Brinker.com | 2026 |
Top Entry-Level Positions at Chili’s Grill & Bar
Available Now: Chili’s regularly hires for host, server, kitchen staff, and management-track positions. Most roles offer flexible scheduling, training, and growth opportunities. No prior restaurant experience is required for entry-level positions.
- Host/Hostess – $13.00–$14.50/hr, greet guests and manage seating, training provided, flexible hours
- Server/Food Server – $15.00–$19.00/hr, take orders and serve tables, tips included, flexible shifts available
- Kitchen/Line Cook – $14.00–$18.00/hr, prepare food in high-volume kitchen, entry-level or experienced roles
- Busser/Food Runner – $13.50–$15.00/hr, clear tables and deliver food, physical activity required, entry-level friendly
- Bartender – $16.00–$22.00/hr (plus tips), mix drinks and manage bar, must be 21+, certification preferred but not required
- Kitchen Manager/Assistant Manager – $18.00–$24.00/hr, supervise kitchen staff, growth into management track, some experience preferred
How Much Does Chili’s Grill & Bar Pay?
Entry-level positions: Chili’s pays $13–$19 per hour for new hires in most roles. Pay varies by location, position type, and shift (night/weekend availability often means higher hourly rates). Full-time employees receive benefits including health insurance, 401(k) matching, meal discounts (50% off food after 3 months), and paid time off after 90 days of employment.
Entry-Level Hourly Wages by Position
| Position | Starting Rate | After 6 Months | After 1 Year | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Host/Hostess | $13.00 | $13.50 | $14.00 | Glassdoor, 2025 |
| Server/Food Server | $15.00 | $16.00 | $17.50 | Indeed, Glassdoor, 2025–2026 |
| Line Cook | $14.00 | $15.00 | $16.50 | Glassdoor, 2025 |
| Busser/Food Runner | $13.50 | $14.00 | $14.75 | Indeed, 2025 |
| Bartender | $16.00 | $17.50 | $19.00+ | PayScale, Glassdoor, 2025 |
| Assistant Manager | $18.00 | $20.00 | $22.00+ | Glassdoor, 2025 |
Factors That Affect Pay at Chili’s
- Location: Urban and high cost-of-living areas typically offer 10–15% higher starting wages than rural regions
- Experience: Prior restaurant or hospitality experience can result in $0.50–$2.00/hr higher starting rates
- Position Type: Tipped positions (servers, bartenders) have lower base hourly rates but earn significant income through gratuities
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts often pay 10–25% more than daytime positions due to demand
- Employment Status: Full-time roles typically offer higher wages and benefits eligibility; part-time roles start lower but provide scheduling flexibility
Chili’s Grill & Bar Employee Benefits
Full-time benefits start immediately: Chili’s offers health insurance (medical, dental, vision), 401(k) with company match, paid time off, and meal discounts. Part-time employees become eligible for benefits after meeting hour requirements. All employees receive 50% off food at Chili’s and Maggiano’s locations after 3 months of employment.
Health & Insurance Benefits
- Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance: Available for full-time employees, including prescription drug coverage
- Domestic Partner Benefits: Eligible partners covered under health plans
- Minimum Essential Coverage (MEC): Part-time team members receive preventive health coverage after meeting requirements
- Short-term Disability: Protects income during temporary inability to work
- Supplemental Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D) Insurance: Additional protection for full-time staff
Retirement & Financial Benefits
- 401(k) Retirement Plan: Company matching contributions available for eligible employees
- Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA): Pre-tax savings for medical and dependent care expenses
Meal & Dining Benefits
- 50% Employee Food Discount: Available after 3 months of employment at any Chili’s or Maggiano’s location
- Free/Discounted Meals: Complimentary or reduced meals during work shifts at many locations
- 15% Family & Friends Discount: Immediate family and friends receive reduced pricing when dining with an employee
Other Notable Benefits
- Parental Leave: Paid time off for new parents
- Flexible Scheduling: Varied shifts accommodate school, family, or other commitments
- Training & Development: On-the-job training provided; advancement opportunities to supervisory and management roles
- Tuition Assistance: Educational support programs for eligible employees
How to Apply to Chili’s Grill & Bar
Online Application: Chili’s accepts all job applications through ChilisJobs.com, the official careers portal. The process is straightforward, takes 10–15 minutes, and requires basic personal information and work history. Applicants receive immediate confirmation upon submission.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Step 1: Visit the Official Careers Portal
Go to ChilisJobs.com (the official Chili’s Grill & Bar careers website). This is where all legitimate job openings are posted and where applications should be submitted.
Step 2: Search for Available Positions
Use the search filters to find positions by location (enter your ZIP code or city), position type (host, server, cook, etc.), and employment status (full-time, part-time). Browse position descriptions to find roles that match your skills and availability.
Step 3: Review Job Details
Click on the job title to view complete information including job responsibilities, required qualifications, pay information, and shift availability. Ensure you meet the age requirements and can commit to the required hours before proceeding.
Step 4: Click “Apply Now”
Once you’ve found a position that suits your interests and availability, click the “Apply Now” or “Submit Application” button to begin the online form process.
Step 5: Complete Your Online Application
Fill in all required fields including: full name, contact information (phone number and email), address, birth date (to verify age eligibility), work authorization status, and employment history. Be detailed in your work experience section and highlight any prior restaurant or customer service experience.
Step 6: Review & Submit
Carefully review all information for accuracy and completeness before submission. Check that your phone number and email are correct—these will be used to contact you about your application status. Click “Submit Application” to send your application.
Step 7: Expect Contact from the Restaurant
After submission, the local restaurant location will review your application (typically within 3–5 business days). If selected, you’ll be contacted via phone or email to schedule an interview. Keep your phone available during business hours.
Application Requirements & Tips
- Age Verification: Must be 16+ for most positions; 18+ required for positions involving alcohol service (bartenders, some servers)
- Valid Contact Information: Use a phone number and email you check regularly; this is how restaurants contact applicants
- Work History: Include all previous jobs even if not in food service; employers value reliability and customer service background
- Availability: Be specific about your weekly availability and willing shift times; flexibility increases chances of hiring
- Professional Tone: Use professional language in your application; avoid slang or abbreviations
- Proofread: Double-check all spelling and grammar before submitting; errors can reduce interview chances
Application Timeline
- Submission: Immediate confirmation after clicking submit
- Initial Review: 3–5 business days for restaurant manager review
- Contact: If selected, you’ll be contacted for interview scheduling
- Interview: Typically occurs 1–2 weeks after initial contact
- Hiring Decision: Final decision usually made within 1 week of interview completion
- Start Date: New hires typically start 1–2 weeks after hiring decision
Chili’s vs. Applebee’s vs. Olive Garden vs. TGI Friday’s
Chili’s competes directly with casual-dining chains like Applebee’s, Olive Garden, and TGI Friday’s. Here’s how Chili’s compensation, benefits, and work environment compare to these major competitors:
| Factor | Chili’s Grill & Bar | Applebee’s | Olive Garden | TGI Friday’s |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Host Starting Pay | $13.00–$14.50/hr | $12.00–$16.00/hr | $9.00–$12.00/hr | $15.00/hr |
| Server Starting Pay | $15.00–$19.00/hr | $15.00–$25.00/hr | $10.00–$13.00/hr | $13.00–$17.00/hr |
| Line Cook Starting Pay | $14.00–$18.00/hr | $14.00–$20.00/hr | $15.06/hr avg | $13.00–$16.00/hr |
| Bartender Starting Pay | $16.00–$22.00/hr | $18.00–$30.00/hr | Not always available | $13.00–$18.00/hr |
| Health Insurance | Yes (Full-time) | Yes (Full-time) | Yes (Full-time) | Yes (Full-time) |
| 401(k) Matching | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Meal Discount | 50% (after 3 months) | Varies by location | Variable | Variable |
| Glassdoor Rating | 3.6/5.0 | 3.3/5.0 | 3.5/5.0 | 3.4/5.0 |
| Locations (US) | ~1,200 | ~1,800 | ~890 | ~300 (declining) |
| Total Employees | 70,000+ | ~100,000+ | ~80,000 | ~8,000 |
Key Takeaways from the Comparison
- Pay Competitiveness: Chili’s server pay ($15–$19/hr) is competitive with Applebee’s and TGI Friday’s, and significantly higher than Olive Garden’s entry-level rates
- Benefits: All four chains offer similar benefits packages for full-time employees, including health insurance and 401(k) matching
- Employee Satisfaction: Chili’s has the highest Glassdoor rating (3.6/5.0) compared to competitors, suggesting better overall employee experience
- Stability & Growth: Chili’s operates 1,200+ US locations (more than Olive Garden, fewer than Applebee’s), with stable corporate ownership under Brinker International
- Meal Discounts: Chili’s explicitly offers 50% off all food after 3 months, which is a strong tangible benefit compared to vague competitor policies
About Chili’s Grill & Bar
Chili’s Grill & Bar is one of the largest casual-dining restaurant chains in North America, owned and operated by Brinker International, a Dallas-based hospitality company founded in 1975. Chili’s operates approximately 1,600 restaurants worldwide, including roughly 1,200 locations across the United States, serving millions of customers annually.
Company Overview
- Parent Company: Brinker International (also owns Maggiano’s Little Italy)
- Headquarters: Dallas, Texas, USA
- Founded: 1975 (Brinker), 1975 (Chili’s as flagship concept)
- Locations Worldwide: 1,600+ (including franchises and company-operated units)
- US Locations: Approximately 1,200 restaurants
- Total Employees: 70,000+ team members across all locations
- Operating Countries: United States, Canada, Mexico, South America, Asia, and other international markets
What Chili’s Is Known For
- Casual Dining Experience: Relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere perfect for lunch, dinner, and special occasions
- Diverse Menu: Burgers, ribs, steaks, chicken, seafood, Tex-Mex specialties, and signature appetizers
- Value Pricing: Competitive menu pricing with frequent promotional discounts and combo deals
- Consistent Quality: Standardized recipes and training ensure consistent food quality across all locations
- Large Staff Base: One of the largest private employers of restaurant and hospitality workers in the United States
Frequently Asked Questions About Applying to Chili’s
What is the minimum age to work at Chili’s Grill & Bar?
The minimum age to work at Chili’s is 16 years old for most entry-level positions including host, busser, food runner, and kitchen staff. However, positions involving the service or handling of alcoholic beverages (bartenders and some server roles) require applicants to be at least 18 years old to comply with state and federal alcohol service laws. Some states have additional age restrictions, so check your local requirements before applying.
How long does the application process take, and when will I hear back?
The online application itself takes 10–15 minutes to complete. After submission, expect to hear from the local restaurant location within 3–5 business days if they wish to schedule an interview. Some locations move faster, while others may take up to 2 weeks. If you don’t hear back after 1 week, consider calling the restaurant to confirm your application was received. Interview timing typically occurs 1–2 weeks after initial contact, and hiring decisions are made within 1 week of the interview.
Can I apply for multiple positions at the same Chili’s location?
Yes, you can apply for multiple positions at the same restaurant if they are posted as separate job openings on ChilisJobs.com. However, we recommend prioritizing your top 1–3 choices and mentioning your flexibility regarding roles during the interview. Managers appreciate candidates who are flexible, as you may be more likely to be hired. Avoid submitting identical applications for multiple positions on the same day, as it may be flagged as duplicate applications.
What should I include in my work history section if I have no restaurant experience?
Even without restaurant experience, include all previous employment such as retail, customer service, tutoring, landscaping, or any job where you interacted with people or demonstrated responsibility. Highlight skills that transfer to restaurants including: customer interaction, teamwork, reliability (low absenteeism), ability to handle multiple tasks, physical stamina, and willingness to learn. Volunteer work, leadership roles in school or community, and relevant certifications (food handler, CPR) are also valuable to include. Restaurants prioritize reliability and attitude over prior experience for entry-level roles.
Does Chili’s offer paid training for new employees?
Yes, Chili’s provides on-the-job training for all new hires in their specific role. Training typically lasts 1–2 weeks depending on the position complexity. Servers and bartenders receive longer training than hosts. During training, new employees are typically paid at their agreed hourly rate. Training is mandatory and must be completed successfully before working independently. Some locations may require short unpaid orientation sessions, but the majority of training is paid.
Are there advancement opportunities from entry-level positions to management at Chili’s?
Yes, Chili’s actively promotes internal advancement. Many Assistant Managers, Kitchen Managers, and General Managers started as entry-level servers, hosts, or line cooks. Career progression typically requires 6–12 months of strong performance in an entry-level role, expressed interest in advancement, completion of management training programs, and interview success. Brinker International values promoting from within, and management positions offer significantly higher pay ($40,000–$80,000+ annually depending on level) and benefits. Ask about advancement opportunities during your interview to show initiative.
What documents do I need to bring on my first day if hired?
If hired at Chili’s, bring the following documents on your first day of work: (1) Valid government-issued photo ID (driver’s license, passport, or state ID); (2) Social Security Card or ITIN document (needed for I-9 employment verification); (3) Proof of eligibility to work in the United States (birth certificate + state ID, or passport); (4) Any relevant certifications (food handler card, CPR certification if applicable); (5) A completed W-4 form for tax withholding (often provided by the restaurant); (6) Any emergency contact information and beneficiary forms the restaurant requires. Federal law requires completion of the I-9 form on your first day, and you’ll need the documents listed above to complete it.
What happens if I have a criminal history or prior employment gaps?
Chili’s background check process focuses primarily on safety-sensitive information and employment verification. Minor criminal records, especially if sealed or expunged, or resolved misdemeanors may not disqualify you for entry-level positions. Employment gaps of a few months are common and typically not problematic if you provide a reasonable explanation (education, health, family care, job search). We recommend being honest in your application and during interviews. If asked about a gap, briefly explain it positively (e.g., “I took 3 months to pursue training” or “I cared for a family member”). Chili’s values honesty and second chances, and many employees have non-linear career paths.
Getting Started: Your Next Steps
Applying to Chili’s Grill & Bar is straightforward, and the chain offers competitive entry-level pay ($13–$19/hr depending on role), strong benefits for full-time employees, and clear pathways for advancement into management. With 1,200+ US locations and 70,000+ team members, Chili’s is a stable employer offering flexible scheduling and valuable work experience in the hospitality industry.
To apply today:
- Visit ChilisJobs.com (the official careers portal)
- Search for positions near you by entering your city or ZIP code
- Select a role that interests you (host, server, cook, manager-track, etc.)
- Click “Apply Now” and complete the 10–15 minute online application
- Expect contact from the restaurant within 3–5 business days if selected for an interview
Whether you’re seeking your first job, returning to the workforce, or looking for flexible part-time work, Chili’s welcomes candidates of all backgrounds. The restaurant industry offers valuable soft skills—teamwork, communication, adaptability, and customer service—that benefit your career long-term. Good luck with your application!