First Watch Restaurants

First Watch Restaurants, Inc. is a leading restaurant company specializing in breakfast, brunch, and lunch with a notable presence in the hospitality industry. Founded in 1983 by Ken Pendery and John Sullivan, the company has grown to operate over 535 locations and employs approximately 14,000 people, primarily serving a daytime-only menu that appeals to a diverse clientele.

Headquartered in Bradenton, Florida, First Watch Restaurants, Inc. generated revenues of $891.551 million in 2023, demonstrating its significant footprint in the restaurant sector, especially in markets like Miami, Florida. Its emphasis on fresh ingredients, community involvement, and employee well-being underscores its reputation as a favored employer and dining destination.

Whether you are interested in starting a career in hospitality or seeking advancement opportunities in restaurant management, First Watch offers a range of roles designed to foster growth and work-life balance in an employee-focused environment.

First Watch Restaurants, Inc. Job Opportunities & Positions

Explore the wide variety of jobs available at First Watch Restaurants, suitable for entry-level and experienced candidates.

Entry-Level Restaurant Positions

These positions are ideal for individuals beginning their careers in the hospitality industry or looking for part-time roles.

Server

• Starting Pay: $12-$16/hour
• Responsibilities: Taking customer orders, delivering food and beverages, and ensuring excellent guest service
• Requirements: Good communication skills, friendly demeanor, no prior experience required
• Schedule: Day shifts only, typically 7:00 AM to 2:30 PM
• Benefits: Employee meal discounts, flexible hours

Busser

• Starting Pay: $10-$14/hour
• Role: Assisting servers by clearing and setting tables, maintaining cleanliness
• Experience: No experience necessary, on-the-job training available
• Working Hours: Morning to early afternoon shifts

Dishwasher

• Starting Pay: $11-$15/hour
• Duties: Washing dishes, kitchen support tasks
• Environment: Fast-paced, team-oriented
• Schedule: Morning shifts with no night work

Cook

• Starting Pay: $13-$17/hour
• Responsibilities: Preparing menu items following recipes and quality standards
• Requirements: Prior cooking experience preferred but not mandatory
• Shift: Daytime operating hours

Host/Hostess

• Starting Pay: $11-$15/hour
• Role: Greeting guests, managing waitlists, seating customers efficiently
• Schedule: Morning to early afternoon shifts
• Skills: Friendly, organized, good communication

Management and Leadership Roles

Management positions at First Watch offer opportunities for professionals with experience in restaurant operations and leadership.

Restaurant Manager

• Starting Pay: $50,000-$65,000/year
• Responsibilities: Overseeing daily operations, staff management, ensuring customer satisfaction
• Qualifications: Previous restaurant management experience preferred
• Advancement: Potential to move into regional management roles

Assistant Manager

• Starting Salary: $45,000-$60,000/year
• Duties: Supporting the Restaurant Manager, scheduling, training staff
• Experience: Leadership skills and hospitality background

Kitchen Manager

• Starting Pay: $48,000-$63,000/year
• Role: Managing kitchen staff, food quality control, inventory management
• Requirements: Culinary or kitchen operational experience

General Manager

• Starting Pay: $55,000-$70,000/year
• Responsibilities: Comprehensive oversight of restaurant performance, finances, and team leadership
• Qualifications: Extensive management experience in hospitality

Why Work at First Watch Restaurants, Inc.? Employee Benefits & Perks

First Watch prioritizes employee well-being and offers numerous benefits to enhance job satisfaction and work-life balance.

Employee Perks

• No night shifts; operating hours from 7:00 AM to 2:30 PM promote better work-life balance
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance options available
• Paid Time Off (PTO) for eligible employees
• Employee meal discounts fostering an appreciation for their fresh and seasonal menu
• 401(k) retirement savings plan with company match for future financial security

Education and Career Development

First Watch supports ongoing learning and career growth for its staff.

• Free high school diploma program available for all employees
• Reduced tuition rates for online degrees and certification programs
• Tuition reimbursement through the Every Gets Graduate Support (EGGS) program

First Watch Restaurants, Inc. Work Environment & Company Culture

First Watch's company culture emphasizes kindness, teamwork, and dedication to quality, reflected by several prestigious awards.

Core Values and Culture

• Just Be Kind: Encouraging respect and empathy among employees and guests
• Stand Shoulder to Shoulder: Fostering teamwork and mutual support
• Roll Up Your Sleeves: Promoting a hands-on, proactive work ethic
• Follow the Sun: Commitment to positive energy and continuous improvement

Awards and Recognition

• Named 2024's #1 Most Loved Workplace® by Newsweek
• Earned 2025's #1 Best Breakfast accolade by Newsweek’s Readers’ Choice Awards

Employee Well-Being

The company is known for prioritizing employee well-being and a healthy work-life balance, partly by restricting operations to daytime hours and fostering a supportive environment.

How To Apply for First Watch Restaurants, Inc. Jobs

Interested candidates can follow these steps to apply for positions at First Watch.

Online Application Process

1. Visit the First Watch careers page
2. Search for available positions by location or job category
3. Select a desired position and click 'Apply Now'
4. Complete the online application form
5. Submit the application and await contact from a hiring manager

Tips for Successful Application

• Highlight any prior hospitality or customer service experience
• Show enthusiasm for working in a fast-paced, team-focused environment
• Prepare to discuss availability and willingness to work daytime shifts
• Emphasize alignment with First Watch's core values and commitment to quality

First Watch Restaurants, Inc. Locations and Job Availability

First Watch operates numerous locations nationwide, including key cities with vibrant hospitality markets.

Where First Watch is Hiring

• Miami, Florida
• Orlando, Florida
• Tampa, Florida
• Dallas, Texas
• Phoenix, Arizona

Local Opportunities in Miami

Miami locations provide ample job openings with flexible schedules that are perfect for individuals seeking work in a supportive, community-oriented restaurant.

First Watch Restaurants, Inc. Competitive Position in the Hospitality Industry

First Watch distinguishes itself among breakfast restaurant competitors through its focused menu and employee-centered policies.

Key Competitors

• IHOP
• Denny's
• Waffle House

What Sets First Watch Apart

• Exclusive focus on breakfast, brunch, and lunch without night shifts
• Strong emphasis on fresh, high-quality ingredients and seasonal menu rotations
• Commitment to fostering a positive workplace culture and community engagement

Salary and Compensation at First Watch Restaurants, Inc.

The company offers competitive pay scales for both entry-level and management roles in the restaurant industry.

Hourly Pay for Entry-Level Roles

• Server: $12-$16/hour
• Busser: $10-$14/hour
• Dishwasher: $11-$15/hour
• Cook: $13-$17/hour
• Host/Hostess: $11-$15/hour

Salaries for Management Positions

• Restaurant Manager: $50,000-$65,000/year
• Assistant Manager: $45,000-$60,000/year
• Kitchen Manager: $48,000-$63,000/year
• General Manager: $55,000-$70,000/year

Getting Started: Your First Watch Restaurants, Inc. Career Roadmap

Begin your journey with First Watch and discover the opportunities for growth in a vibrant restaurant environment.

Week 1-2: Orientation and Initial Training

• Introduction to company values and culture
• Hands-on training in your assigned role
• Team integration and safety onboarding

Months 1-6: Skills Development and Practice

• Refinement of customer service and operational skills
• Cross-training in multiple positions for versatility
• Regular performance feedback and coaching

6+ Months: Career Advancement

• Opportunities to apply for leadership or specialized roles
• Participation in education and professional development programs
• Recognition for outstanding contributions and teamwork

Contact Information for First Watch Restaurants, Inc. Careers

For more information or assistance with employment opportunities, reach out to First Watch's corporate headquarters.

Corporate Headquarters

8725 Pendery Place Suite 201
Bradenton, Florida 34201
Phone: (941) 907-9800
Website: firstwatch.com

Local Hiring at Miami Locations

Potential employees are encouraged to check online listings or visit Miami-area restaurants for current openings and application support.