Restaurant Operations Manager

First Watch is a leading daytime dining concept serving made-to-order breakfast, brunch, and lunch using the freshest ingredients. Our "Follow the Sun" culinary philosophy drives a chef-driven menu that rotates multiple times per year, featuring elevated classics, fresh juices, and fan favorites like Lemon Ricotta Pancakes and Million Dollar Bacon. For every kid’s meal served, we donate a portion to community causes, raising approximately $2.0 million to date.

About the Role

First Watch Managers love mornings, the smell of bacon, and most importantly, have an innate passion for serving others. We hire managers who coach and develop team members to deliver exceptional customer service and amazing food. At First Watch, managers oversee both kitchen operations and the overall dining experience—there’s no division between back-of-house and front-of-house.

Responsibilities

• Embody and promote our YOU FIRST culture and core values.
• Supervise daily operations to ensure high standards and smooth execution.
• Uphold our commitment to great food by following recipes and sourcing standards.
• Work toward and exceed restaurant sales and traffic goals.
• Coach and observe the First Watch Five Steps of Service at every table.
• Implement our 10 Commitments in daily actions.
• Respond urgently to customer and employee concerns.
• Communicate and take ownership of repair and maintenance issues.
• Maintain food safety certification and coach safe food handling practices.
• Continuously recruit and interview candidates to join the team.
• Secure company assets, including computers, POS systems, and equipment.
• Understand the responsibilities of every restaurant position.
• Address and investigate inappropriate behavior immediately.
• Train, coach, and develop team members daily.
• Recognize and reward outstanding performance.
• Account for all daily revenues and deposits.
• Complete administrative duties and submit required paperwork on time.

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 after 60 days of employment and age 21).
• Life Insurance, Short-Term Disability, Long-Term Disability, Dental, and Vision Insurance.
• Bright Horizons back-up child and elder care.
• Spot Insurance and supplemental insurance (accident, critical illness, indemnity).
• Meal discount.
• Complimentary premium access to the Calm App, plus 5 gift subscriptions.
• Unlimited access to medical and behavioral telemedicine through 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).