Restaurant Manager

This job opening is with an independent franchisee operating a Del Taco restaurant, not Del Taco LLC directly. The franchisee independently manages all employment-related matters including hiring, firing, discipline, wages, supervision, staffing, and scheduling. This allows for a locally driven employment experience while adhering to the Del Taco brand standards and operational guidelines.

Del Taco is a leading fast-casual Mexican food restaurant chain known for its freshly prepared, quality menu items served quickly. The independent franchisee is committed to delivering the Del Taco brand experience in each restaurant, emphasizing excellent customer service, high-quality products, and a positive team culture.

The position available is that of a Restaurant Manager, reporting directly to the Area Director. This role is critical in delivering and protecting the Del Taco brand at the restaurant level. The Restaurant Manager plays a vital role in growing sales, maximizing operational efficiency, and maintaining profitability by effectively leading the store team with the values of the Del Taco Way.

The successful candidate will be responsible for fully staffing the restaurant with quality team members through effective recruiting, hiring, and retention strategies. Ensuring the entire team remains certified with Del Taco training programs is key, along with fostering a service-oriented culture where teamwork and a fun work environment are promoted. The Restaurant Manager will also evaluate employee performance and manage disciplinary actions while supporting growth and development of team members and future managers.

Operationally, this position necessitates consistent execution of Del Taco standards and operational systems. Maintaining facility cleanliness, equipment functionality, uniform standards, and product quality are daily priorities. The manager is also responsible for ensuring a consistent and engaging customer experience, including proper signage placement and adherence to promotional campaigns.

On the business side, the Restaurant Manager drives sales goals by reporting and acting on sales data, assigning proper staff based on projected sales, increasing customer counts and average transaction value, and leveraging local marketing opportunities. Awareness of local trade area dynamics and competition is critical for strategic decision-making.

Profitability management is another core function, involving maintaining labor costs aligned with sales, compliance with labor laws, precise inventory control to minimize waste and theft, and rigorous cash handling with audits. The manager is also tasked with overseeing safety and health protocols, service vendor management, controllable cost targets, and adjusting responsibilities as operational needs dictate.

The ideal candidate will bring a minimum of 3 to 5 years of experience in quick-service or full-service restaurant management, hold a high school diploma or equivalent, and preferably possess ServSafe certification. Excellent communication, organizational, analytic, and problem-solving skills are essential. Fluency in English is required, with Spanish language skills considered an asset. The role requires effective leadership and motivation of a diverse team and fostering an environment conducive to learning and career development.

Physical demands include working in both office and restaurant environments, with periods of standing, sitting, typing, and possible bending or lifting. The position requires some travel to restaurant locations within the assigned region, potentially involving overnight stays. A valid driver’s license and vehicle insurance are necessary.

This Restaurant Manager position offers a challenging yet rewarding opportunity to lead a dynamic team in delivering exceptional food service and operational excellence consistent with Del Taco’s nationally recognized brand. Employment is on an at-will basis and is conducted by the independent franchisee who is the employer. The franchisee is committed to equal employment opportunity and maintaining a discrimination-free, respectful workplace. If you are passionate about restaurant management and customer service excellence, this role offers a valuable platform to grow your career within a popular food service brand.