Restaurant Manager

California Pizza Kitchen (CPK) is a pioneering restaurant brand that has redefined the pizza dining experience with its innovative approach to fresh ingredients and California-inspired flavors. Founded in 1985 by former federal prosecutors Rick Rosenfield and Larry Flax, CPK has grown from a single location into a celebrated chain known for its inventive menu items such as The Original BBQ Chicken, California Club, and Thai Chicken pizzas. These signature dishes are crafted in a lively open kitchen that showcases hearth-baked pizza making, creating a dynamic and engaging dining atmosphere that appeals to both guests and culinary enthusiasts alike.

As a company, California Pizza Kitchen is deeply rooted in its ROCKS philosophy, which stands for Respect, Opportunity, Communication, Kindness, and Service. These core values are more than just words on a wall; they shape the company culture and guide how employees interact with guests, colleagues, and the community. CPK is committed to fostering an inclusive environment where every team member can bring their authentic selves to work, develop their passion for hospitality, and seize opportunities for career advancement. The company strongly believes in promoting from within, empowering individuals to grow through comprehensive training programs and continuous learning platforms such as "The Proof," an electronic learning system designed to engage employees at all levels.

CPK offers a unique workplace that prioritizes not only exceptional guest experiences but also the well-being and development of its team members. Prospective candidates can expect a supportive work environment enriched by employee-driven programs like the Kindness Fund, which provides assistance to employees facing life challenges. The company also emphasizes work-life balance by providing benefits such as manager meals during shifts and a Management Dine-Out card to enjoy time with family and friends. The restaurant boasts a dynamic, one-of-a-kind culture characterized by a passionate and driven team that thrives on innovation and creativity while maintaining a commitment to hospitality excellence.

The role of a restaurant manager at California Pizza Kitchen is both challenging and rewarding, offering an exciting opportunity to lead a fast-paced, high-volume front-of-house team. This position requires a leader who embodies the CPK culture and is passionate about delivering phenomenal guest experiences. The manager will play a critical role in inspiring and developing a team that excels in hospitality and culinary execution, fostering an atmosphere of growth and cross-training to maximize team potential. Financial acumen is essential, as the manager is responsible for meeting sales goals, managing profitability, and maintaining stringent budget control through forecasting, labor management, portion control, and variance analysis.

Effective communication skills are vital in this leadership position, as the manager will interact regularly with employees, guests, suppliers, and senior management. Additionally, maintaining a clean, safe, and sanitary environment is a key responsibility, ensuring compliance with all health and safety standards. The role demands physical stamina, as managers must be able to spend up to 10 hours standing, walking, or performing various physical tasks, including lifting up to 40 pounds when necessary.

CPK offers an industry-competitive compensation package for this position, including a salary range from $70,500 to $75,000 with bonus potential, comprehensive medical, dental, vision, and disability insurance, as well as 401(k) retirement benefits. This employment opportunity is full-time, with a structured and supportive onboarding training program that lasts eight weeks, utilizing multiple learning methods such as online tutorials, book-based materials, and hands-on mentoring. Working at California Pizza Kitchen means joining a team that encourages creativity, values respect, and provides opportunities to grow in a vibrant, inclusive workplace dedicated to culinary innovation and exemplary service.