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 "Follow the Sun" culinary philosophy ensures a rotating menu that highlights seasonal flavors, including elevated classics, fresh juices, and signature dishes like Lemon Ricotta Pancakes and Million Dollar Bacon. We are committed to community impact, donating a portion of every kids' meal to local causes, totaling approximately $2.3 million to date.

About the Role

First Watch Managers thrive in the morning, have a passion for serving others, and take pride in delivering exceptional food and hospitality. Unlike traditional restaurant structures, our managers oversee both kitchen operations and the overall dining experience, fostering a unified team environment. You’ll play a key role in upholding our "You First" culture, coaching team members, and ensuring every guest leaves satisfied.

Responsibilities

• Embody and promote our "You First" culture and core values.
• Supervise daily operations to ensure high standards in both front-of-house and back-of-house.
• Adhere to and enforce our recipes and food sourcing standards.
• Drive sales and exceed restaurant traffic goals.
• Coach and observe team members implementing the First Watch Five Steps of Service at every table.
• Put our 10 Commitments into action and respond urgently to customer and employee concerns.
• Take ownership of repair and maintenance issues.
• Maintain food safety certification and coach safe food handling practices.
• Recruit, interview, and onboard new team members.
• Secure company assets, including POS systems, security equipment, and financial deposits.
• Understand and train others on the responsibilities of every restaurant position.
• Address and investigate inappropriate behavior immediately.
• Provide daily coaching, development, and recognition for team members.
• Reconcile daily revenues and ensure timely completion of administrative paperwork.

Benefits

• No night shifts—ever.
• Quarterly bonus payments based on restaurant performance (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, short-term, and long-term disability insurance.
• 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 & 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) (eligibility begins the 1st of the month following 60 days of employment).