4Rivers Restaurant Manager - Lakeland

4 Rivers Smokehouse is a renowned barbecue restaurant brand that is deeply rooted in faith, family, and community values. Founded in 2004 with a mission to support local charitable causes, 4 Rivers Smokehouse has grown into a celebrated fast-casual dining establishment known for its high-quality barbecue and strong commitment to people-first principles. Beginning from what was called the "Barbecue Ministry," the brand has evolved into a multi-location restaurant group serving the Lakeland, Tampa, and surrounding markets. With a culture that emphasizes support, teamwork, and operational excellence, 4 Rivers Smokehouse offers an engaging work environment where every team member is empowered to make a difference. The company is an Equal Opportunity Employer, maintains a Drug-Free Workplace, and thoroughly conducts background checks to ensure a safe and productive environment.

The Restaurant Manager position at 4 Rivers Smokehouse in the Lakeland and surrounding markets is a full-time role designed for an experienced leader ready to take the next step toward a General Manager position. This role is crucial in steering the restaurant's daily operations, ensuring exceptional standards of service, quality, and cleanliness are consistently met. The Restaurant Manager collaborates closely with both the General Manager and the market leadership team, functioning as a key figure in front-of-house and back-of-house management. This role is ideal for a senior manager ready to grow within a value-driven brand and who thrives in a fast-paced, high-volume restaurant environment.

As a Restaurant Manager, you will provide hands-on leadership by coaching and developing managers and hourly team members while holding them accountable for achieving operational goals. This position requires a guest-centric leadership style, focusing on delivering an excellent dining experience through consistent service and maintaining premium food and cleanliness standards. The role includes responsibilities such as hiring, training, scheduling, inventory management, and cost control, ensuring the restaurant operates efficiently and profitably. The manager plays an essential role in labor and food cost management, tracking key operational metrics to support the restaurant’s financial health. Flexibility is vital for this position, as the manager must be available to work weekends, holidays, and support multiple locations within the Lakeland and Tampa markets.

This position offers competitive pay with significant growth opportunities, including the chance to advance into a General Manager role. Benefits include a 401(k) with company match, medical, dental, and vision insurance, paid vacation and parental leave, wellness and cell phone reimbursements, free mental health services, and leadership development through the company’s 4R University program. The culture at 4 Rivers Smokehouse is supportive and people-first, promoting work-life balance and personal growth in a community-oriented setting. This role expects a passion for leadership, strong communication skills, and a proactive, hands-on management approach, ensuring high standards and a positive work environment that aligns with the brand’s mission and values.