Restaurant Manager

This job posting pertains to a restaurant operated by an independent franchisee of Del Taco, a well-established quick-service restaurant chain known for its fresh Mexican cuisine and commitment to quality customer service. The independent franchisee owns and manages this specific location, making them the direct employer responsible for all employment-related matters, including hiring, discipline, wages, and staffing. This means that while the restaurant operates under the Del Taco brand, employment policies and decisions are handled at the franchisee level rather than by Del Taco LLC itself.

As a Restaurant Manager reporting to the Area Director, you will play a crucial leadership role in protecting and delivering the Del Taco brand experience. Your focus will be on driving sales growth while maximizing operational efficiency and profitability. This role requires an individual with strong leadership skills who can inspire and manage a diverse team, promote a positive work culture, and ensure high standards in food quality, customer service, and restaurant cleanliness. Through your efforts, you will help maintain the signature Del Taco experience that keeps customers coming back.

The Restaurant Manager will be responsible for staffing the restaurant with qualified employees, leading recruitment and retention efforts, and ensuring all team members are properly trained and certified according to the Del Taco training process. Establishing an environment that fosters teamwork and fun is essential to creating a motivated and engaged staff. You will evaluate employee performance, recommend salary increases, and administer disciplinary measures when necessary. Moreover, developing team members and future leaders to build a strong talent pipeline is a key element of this role.

As part of delivering the brand, you will be expected to uphold Del Taco's operational standards rigorously. This includes maintaining the facility and customer areas, ensuring equipment is operational and safe, and consistently delivering quality products that meet Del Taco's expectations. Adhering to cleaning schedules, uniform policies, and point of purchase signage requirements ensures a professional and welcoming atmosphere. Your leadership will guarantee a consistent, pleasant service experience that aligns with the Del Taco way.

Driving sales and customer loyalty are paramount. You will set and communicate clear sales goals and ensure staffing aligns with projected demand. Leveraging local store marketing opportunities will help attract new customers, while understanding the local competitive landscape will inform your strategies. Speed of service and customer satisfaction must be maintained at the highest level to meet sales targets and enhance customer counts and average check sizes.

Profitability oversight is also a core responsibility. You will control labor costs by staffing according to sales levels and comply with all labor laws. Inventory management will be key to reducing waste and preventing theft, while cash handling procedures and audits will protect the restaurant’s assets. Safety, health, and vendor management are also critical to controlling operational costs and ensuring smooth daily operations. Flexibility in performing other duties as assigned completes the dynamic nature of this position.

The ideal candidate possesses a high school diploma or equivalent, with 3 to 5 years of experience in the quick-service restaurant or full-service hospitality industries. ServSafe certification is required, and fluency in English is essential, with Spanish language skills considered a plus. Excellent communication skills, strong organizational abilities, and a detail-oriented mindset are necessary. Analytical, problem-solving, and mathematical skills will support managing budgets and inventory. This position demands a self-motivated individual who can work effectively under pressure and lead a team through development, motivation, and career growth opportunities.

Physical demands include working in both office and restaurant environments, standing or sitting for extended periods, and performing tasks such as reaching, bending, and lifting. The ability to drive and travel to various locations within the assigned area, including overnight stays, is required. A valid driver’s license and proof of vehicle insurance complete the essential requirements for this management role.

This position exemplifies the commitment to delivering the Del Taco brand promise and fostering a culture of respect, diversity, and inclusion. Employment is at-will, and the franchisee is dedicated to providing an equal opportunity workplace free from discrimination and harassment, focused on employee development and a supportive work environment. Joining this team offers a rewarding career path with significant leadership opportunities in a renowned quick-service restaurant brand.