Restaurant Operations Manager

First Watch is a leading daytime dining concept specializing in made-to-order breakfast, brunch, and lunch using fresh, high-quality ingredients. Our chef-driven menu rotates seasonally to highlight peak flavors, featuring elevated classics, fresh juices, and signature dishes like Lemon Ricotta Pancakes and Million Dollar Bacon. We support our communities by donating a portion of every kids' meal to local causes, totaling approximately $2.0 million to date.

About the Role

First Watch Managers are passionate about mornings, food, and—most importantly—serving others. You’ll coach and develop team members who share this passion, fostering a cycle of exceptional hospitality. Unlike traditional restaurants, we don’t separate back-of-house (BOH) and front-of-house (FOH) management. Every manager oversees both kitchen operations and the dining experience to ensure consistency and high standards.

Responsibilities

• Embody and reinforce our You First culture and core values.
• Supervise daily operations to ensure smooth execution and high standards.
• Uphold our commitment to sourcing great food by following recipes precisely.
• Drive sales and traffic goals, working to exceed targets.
• Coach and observe the First Watch Five Steps of Service at every table.
• Implement our 10 Commitments in daily operations.
• Respond urgently to customer and employee concerns.
• Own repair and maintenance issues, communicating needs promptly.
• Maintain food safety certification and coach safe food-handling practices.
• Recruit and interview candidates to build a strong team.
• Secure company assets, including computers, POS systems, and equipment.
• Understand the responsibilities of every restaurant position.
• Address inappropriate behavior immediately and investigate as needed.
• Train, coach, and develop team members daily.
• Recognize and reward outstanding performance.
• Account for daily revenues and deposits accurately.
• Complete administrative duties and submit required paperwork on time.

Benefits

• No night shifts—ever.
• Quarterly performance-based bonuses for Restaurant Operations Managers.
• 24/7 Employee Assistance Program.
• 401(K) Retirement Savings Program (eligibility begins after 60 days of employment and age 21).
• Life Insurance, Short-Term Disability, and Long-Term Disability coverage.
• Dental and Vision Insurance.
• Health Insurance.
• Bright Horizons back-up child and elder care.
• Spot Insurance and supplemental insurance (accident, critical illness, indemnity).
• Meal discounts.
• Complimentary premium access to the Calm App, plus 5 gift subscriptions.
• Unlimited access to medical and behavioral telemedicine via Cirrus MD.
• Tuition Reimbursement and High School Diploma Program.
• Perks at Work (30,000+ discounts on travel, fitness, auto, event tickets, and more).
• Childcare Discount Program.
• Paid Time Off (PTO) (enrollment required within 30 days of hire; benefits begin the 1st of the month following 60 days of employment).