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Handmade Craft Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Cook

Chicago, IL

$18 - $22/hr

Tzuco is seeking a skilled Tortilla Maker to prepare fresh, handmade corn tortillas for daily ... This is a hands-on craft role at the heart of the kitchen and a signature element of the guest ...

Sous Chef

Chicago, IL

$70K - $74K/yr

About Alla Vita Alla Vita is a neighborhood Italian restaurant focused on handmade pastas, pizzas ... craft, we want to hear from you! Please reply with a copy of your resume AND a cover letter ...

Handmade Craft information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$5

$16

$35

How much do handmade craft jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for handmade craft in Chicago, IL is $16.39, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $9.90 and $18.56 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a handmade craft?

A Handmade Craft job involves creating unique, handcrafted items using various materials and techniques. These artisans work with textiles, wood, clay, metal, or other materials to produce decorative or functional pieces. Many handmade craft professionals sell their work at markets, online platforms, or through custom orders. This job requires creativity, attention to detail, and sometimes business skills for marketing and selling products.

What are typical daily responsibilities for someone working in handmade craft?

A typical day for someone in Handmade Craft involves designing, creating, and finishing handmade items such as jewelry, textiles, pottery, or wooden goods. You may also source materials, manage inventory, photograph products for online listings, and respond to customer inquiries or custom requests. Many craftspeople balance hands-on production with administrative tasks like bookkeeping, shipping orders, and updating social media or websites. Collaboration can occur with local shops, other artisans, or event organizers, especially if selling at markets or fairs. This variety makes the role dynamic and allows for both creative expression and business growth.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in handmade craft, and why are they important?

Thriving in Handmade Craft requires creativity, attention to detail, fine motor skills, and experience in various crafting techniques such as sewing, weaving, or woodworking. Familiarity with specialized tools and materials relevant to your craft (e.g., looms, carving tools, or textile dyes) is beneficial, and some artisans seek certification from craft guilds or training workshops. Strong time management, patience, and customer service skills help artisans excel, especially when dealing with custom orders or selling products directly to consumers. These skills are vital for producing high-quality handcrafted items, maintaining a professional reputation, and growing a sustainable craft-based business.

What are the most commonly searched types of Handmade Craft jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Handmade Craft jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Handmade Craft jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Handmade Craft jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Handmade Craft jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Handmade Craft jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Infographic showing various Handmade Craft job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,082 per year, or $16.4 per hour.

$18 - $22/hr

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Tzuco is seeking a skilled Tortilla Maker to prepare fresh, handmade corn tortillas for daily service. Working from freshly made masa, the Tortilla Maker hand-presses and cooks tortillas on the comal to order and in batches, ensuring that every tortilla reaching the guest reflects the texture, flavor, and tradition central to Tzuco's cuisine. This is a hands-on craft role at the heart of the kitchen and a signature element of the guest experience.

Key Responsibilities

  • Prepare and press fresh masa into tortillas by hand throughout each service period
  • Cook tortillas to order on the comal/plancha, maintaining ideal texture, char, and pliability
  • Portion, weigh, and maintain masa consistency for uniform tortilla size and quality
  • Monitor and manage tortilla production volume to keep pace with service demand
  • Keep the tortilla station clean, organized, and stocked before, during, and after service
  • Follow all food safety, sanitation, and handling standards (allergen awareness, cross-contamination prevention)
  • Assist with prep tasks and masa preparation as directed by the kitchen leadership
  • Communicate with expo and line cooks to ensure timely delivery of tortillas to the pass

Qualifications

  • Prior experience making handmade tortillas (professional or extensive home/family experience welcome)
  • Knowledge of masa preparation and comal cooking techniques
  • Ability to work quickly and consistently in a high-volume, fast-paced kitchen
  • Strong attention to detail and pride in craft
  • Ability to work as part of a team and take direction from kitchen leadership
  • Food Handler's Certificate (or willingness to obtain upon hire)
  • Bilingual (English/Spanish) a plus

Physical Requirements

  • Ability to stand for extended periods
  • Ability to work near heat sources (comal/plancha) for prolonged periods
  • Repetitive hand and wrist motion (pressing, flipping)

Schedule
Availability required for evenings, weekends, and holidays based on restaurant service needs.

More detail about TZUCO part of SOMOS Hospitality, please visit https://culinaryagents.com/entities/249248-TZUCO