Dining Operations Manager

First Watch is a pioneering leader in the Daytime Dining restaurant industry, renowned for its freshly made-to-order breakfast, brunch, and lunch menus. Established with a deep commitment to quality, community, and hospitality, First Watch operates more than 630 restaurants across 32 states in the US. The company takes pride in sourcing ingredients at their freshest, crafting seasonal menus that delight customers while emphasizing wholesome flavors and culinary creativity. What sets First Watch apart is its unique YOU FIRST culture, which places employees’ happiness and empowerment at the forefront. This philosophy fosters an environment where staff are valued greatly — in fact, the company expresses its affection for employees by saying they love their team even more than bacon.

In addition to its dedication to customers and quality food, First Watch is deeply invested in its people. The company offers numerous benefits that support both professional and personal well-being, emphasizing career growth and work-life balance. Employees never have to worry about night shifts, which promotes a healthier lifestyle. Additional perks include access to a 24/7 Employee Assistance Program, medical coverage including dental and vision, and a 401(k) retirement savings plan eligible after 60 days. First Watch enhances employee wellness with perks such as premium access to the Calm mindfulness app, unlimited medical and behavioral telemedicine, and supportive programs like tuition reimbursement and childcare discounts. The company’s community commitment extends to donating portions from kid’s meals to impactful local causes, reflecting a strong sense of corporate social responsibility.

The Dining Operations Manager role at First Watch offers an exciting leadership opportunity for individuals passionate about morning dining, hospitality, and team development. This position involves overseeing both kitchen and dining operations to ensure that the exceptional quality and service standards for which First Watch is known are consistently achieved. The Manager will lead with the YOU FIRST ethos, coaching the team, maintaining high operational standards, and fostering a positive workplace culture. Responsibilities include supervising daily restaurant functions, adhering to curated recipes and sourcing requirements, and implementing sales strategies aligned with company goals. The ideal candidate thrives on creating memorable customer experiences, mentoring employees, and promptly addressing any issues that arise, be it customer feedback, staff concerns, or facility maintenance. Food safety certification and practice of safe food handling are mandatory components of the role to maintain health standards.

This position also involves recruiting and developing team members to support the company’s commitment to excellence. Administrative tasks related to daily revenue tracking and other managerial duties are integral to the role, with an emphasis on safeguarding company assets and upholding ethical conduct. Overall, the Dining Operations Manager at First Watch is a key player in delivering an unparalleled daytime dining experience while championing a supportive, employee-first culture that empowers staff and delights customers alike. If you are motivated by leadership, quality service, and a culture that truly cares, this opportunity may be the perfect fit for you.