EL Assistant Manager – EPL 3564 San Diego – Mira Mesa (San Diego, CA)
Job Overview
Benefits
Health Insurance
Dental Insurance
Paid Time Off
Retirement Plan
Employee Discounts
flexible scheduling
Career development opportunities
Job Description
El Pollo Loco is a renowned fast-food restaurant chain specializing in Mexican-style grilled chicken and a variety of freshly prepared Mexican dishes. Known for its signature flame-grilled chicken, the company has built a strong reputation for quality food, excellent customer service, and a vibrant, customer-oriented culture. With numerous locations across the United States, El Pollo Loco continues to grow as a leading player in the quick-service restaurant industry, committed to delivering a unique dining experience that combines bold flavors with efficient service. The brand emphasizes teamwork, integrity, loyalty, service, and winning attitudes among its employees, fostering a dynamic work environment where every team member is valued and empowered to contribute to the company's success.
The role of the Assistant Manager at El Pollo Loco is pivotal to maintaining the smooth daily operation of the restaurant. Reporting directly to the General Manager, the Assistant Manager supports leadership efforts by overseeing shift operations, managing staff, upholding food safety protocols, and ensuring high standards of customer service. This position demands a proactive leader who can manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced setting, ensuring that every shift operates efficiently and safely. Key responsibilities include supervising hiring, training, and motivation of team members; managing inventory and food costs; handling customer service issues; enforcing compliance with all applicable laws and company policies; and stepping in as the person in charge when the General Manager is absent.
The Assistant Manager must excel in balancing operational demands with people management, driving the team towards excellence while maintaining a positive work environment. Physical demands include standing and walking for long periods, frequent bending and reaching, and occasional lifting, as the role requires active participation on the floor during busy times or staff shortages. The environment is fast-paced and sometimes challenging, involving exposure to heat, cleaning chemicals, and varying indoor/outdoor conditions typical of a restaurant setting.
In addition to on-the-job experience, a minimum of 1-2 years in restaurant or retail supervisory roles is essential. The Assistant Manager should possess strong communication, problem-solving, and leadership skills, along with proficiency in POS systems, cash handling, and inventory management. ServSafe certification is required, ensuring the Assistant Manager can enforce food safety standards rigorously. This role also demands flexibility with work hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, and the ability to travel between nearby locations if necessary.
This position provides a unique opportunity to develop managerial skills within a respected, growing restaurant brand while contributing to daily success and customer satisfaction. Commitment to the company’s values—Integrity, Loyalty, Winning, Service, and Teamwork—is vital for anyone seeking to thrive as an Assistant Manager at El Pollo Loco. Through dedication, professionalism, and effective leadership, the Assistant Manager supports the company’s mission to deliver quality food and exceptional service consistently.
The role of the Assistant Manager at El Pollo Loco is pivotal to maintaining the smooth daily operation of the restaurant. Reporting directly to the General Manager, the Assistant Manager supports leadership efforts by overseeing shift operations, managing staff, upholding food safety protocols, and ensuring high standards of customer service. This position demands a proactive leader who can manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced setting, ensuring that every shift operates efficiently and safely. Key responsibilities include supervising hiring, training, and motivation of team members; managing inventory and food costs; handling customer service issues; enforcing compliance with all applicable laws and company policies; and stepping in as the person in charge when the General Manager is absent.
The Assistant Manager must excel in balancing operational demands with people management, driving the team towards excellence while maintaining a positive work environment. Physical demands include standing and walking for long periods, frequent bending and reaching, and occasional lifting, as the role requires active participation on the floor during busy times or staff shortages. The environment is fast-paced and sometimes challenging, involving exposure to heat, cleaning chemicals, and varying indoor/outdoor conditions typical of a restaurant setting.
In addition to on-the-job experience, a minimum of 1-2 years in restaurant or retail supervisory roles is essential. The Assistant Manager should possess strong communication, problem-solving, and leadership skills, along with proficiency in POS systems, cash handling, and inventory management. ServSafe certification is required, ensuring the Assistant Manager can enforce food safety standards rigorously. This role also demands flexibility with work hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, and the ability to travel between nearby locations if necessary.
This position provides a unique opportunity to develop managerial skills within a respected, growing restaurant brand while contributing to daily success and customer satisfaction. Commitment to the company’s values—Integrity, Loyalty, Winning, Service, and Teamwork—is vital for anyone seeking to thrive as an Assistant Manager at El Pollo Loco. Through dedication, professionalism, and effective leadership, the Assistant Manager supports the company’s mission to deliver quality food and exceptional service consistently.
Job Requirements
- minimum 1-2 years of restaurant or retail supervisory experience required
- must be at least 18 years of age
- high school diploma or equivalent required
- ServSafe certification required or must obtain within required timeframe
- proficiency with POS systems, cash handling, smart safe operation, and basic computer skills
- ability to work flexible hours including nights, weekends, and holidays
- reliable transportation and willingness to work at nearby locations as needed
Job Qualifications
- minimum 1-2 years of restaurant or retail supervisory experience
- high school diploma or equivalent required, college coursework preferred
- strong communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills
- ServSafe certification required or must obtain within required timeframe
- proficiency with POS systems, cash handling, smart safe operation, and basic computer skills
- ability to work flexible hours including nights, weekends, and holidays
- reliable transportation and willingness to work at nearby locations as needed
- ability to resolve customer issues promptly and professionally using company service methods
Job Duties
- support the General Manager in hiring, onboarding, training, motivating, and developing team members
- conduct shift-level coaching, performance feedback, and adherence to uniform and grooming standards
- uphold and model company values including integrity, loyalty, winning, service, and teamwork
- ensure proper shift staffing and deployment based on business needs
- oversee shift operations including opening and closing procedures, product preparation, safety protocols, and food safety standards
- ensure compliance with critical checklists, daily walk-throughs, and equipment checks
- execute inventory counts, product rotation, food quality standards, and waste control
- support ordering, receiving deliveries, and monitoring food and labor costs
- cover workstations and assist during busy periods, breaks, or staffing shortages
- ensure all customers receive accurate orders, friendly service, and fast, clean experiences
- monitor service times and take corrective actions to meet service metrics
- resolve customer complaints and service issues professionally and promptly
- assist in monitoring daily sales, deposits, and cash handling accuracy
- support management of food, labor, and controllable costs
- use company reporting systems to understand financial performance and trends
- safely operate and reconcile smart safe, POS tills, and other cash-handling tools
- ensure compliance with federal, state, and local laws and regulations
- enforce timekeeping accuracy and report any concerns
- maintain required documentation and complete shift reports
- promptly report claims of harassment, discrimination, retaliation, wage and hour issues, bullying, workplace violence, or other inappropriate behavior to leadership and HR
Job Criteria
Experience
Mid Level (3-7 years)
Job Location
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