Restaurant Operations Manager

First Watch is a leading daytime dining concept serving 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, Quinoa Power Bowl, and Million Dollar Bacon. We’re 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, love the energy of a bustling restaurant, and have a deep passion for serving others. This role goes beyond exceptional customer service and great food—it’s about coaching and developing team members who share that same passion for hospitality. At First Watch, we don’t separate back-of-house and front-of-house management. Every manager oversees both kitchen operations and the overall dining experience, ensuring seamless execution 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 exceed restaurant traffic goals.
• 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.
• Actively 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 accurately.
• 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 begins after 60 days of employment and at age 21).
• Life Insurance, Short-Term Disability, and Long-Term Disability coverage.
• Dental and Vision Insurance.
• Bright Horizons back-up child and elder care.
• Spot Insurance and supplemental insurance options (accident, critical illness, indemnity).
• Meal discounts.
• Complimentary premium access to the Calm App, plus 5 gift subscriptions.
• Unlimited access to medical and behavioral telemedicine through 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.