Restaurant Operations Manager

Cincinnati, OH, USA|Onsite

Job Overview

Employment Type

Full-time

Work Schedule

Standard Hours

Day Shifts

Benefits

Health Insurance

Dental Insurance

Vision Insurance

Life insurance

short term disability

long term disability

401(K) retirement savings program

Paid Time Off

Meal Discount

Tuition Reimbursement

Employee assistance program

Child care discount program

Telemedicine access

Calm app access

Spot Insurance

Supplemental Insurance

Job Description

First Watch is a leading daytime dining restaurant chain specializing in made-to-order breakfast, brunch, and lunch. With a commitment to fresh ingredients and a chef-curated menu, First Watch has become a popular destination for guests seeking high-quality, flavorful meals throughout the day. The company operates over 630 restaurants across 32 states, embodying a culinary philosophy known as "Follow the Sun," which means they rotate their menu multiple times a year to highlight peak seasonal flavors. First Watch is widely recognized for its innovation in daytime dining and dedication to community impact, having donated millions to causes supporting children with each kid's meal served. Awarded "Best Breakfast" and "Best Brunch" titles, as well as being named the #1 Most Loved Workplace in America for consecutive years, First Watch offers a dynamic, supportive environment for its employees.

The restaurant operates on a unique set of values they call the YOU FIRST philosophy, which prioritizes putting employees at the forefront of the company culture. This includes no night shifts for employees, 24/7 employee assistance programs, and multiple wellness offerings, underpinning their commitment to work-life balance. First Watch provides extensive opportunities for career growth within the business and encourages empowerment among its teams to make decisions that enhance guest experiences.

The position available is for a Restaurant Operations Manager at First Watch. This role is vital to maintaining the high standards that the brand is known for. A successful manager loves morning shifts, thrives in customer service, and has a passion for leading and coaching teams to create memorable dining experiences. Unlike traditional management structures, First Watch managers oversee both kitchen and dining operations, ensuring a cohesive and exceptional daily flow each day.

The manager is expected to embody the YOU FIRST culture by creating an environment where team members are supported and motivated. They are responsible for daily operational success, ensuring strict adherence to recipes and company quality standards, and driving sales and customer satisfaction. Coaching team members on the First Watch Five Steps of Service, managing food safety certifications, and solving issues promptly are critical components of the role. Moreover, managers play a key role in recruiting new employees, securing company assets, and maintaining a safe, welcoming atmosphere for colleagues and guests alike.

In addition to competitive base pay, the Restaurant Operations Manager is eligible for quarterly bonuses tied to restaurant performance. Other benefits include comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance, life and disability coverage, retirement savings through a 401(k) program, tuition reimbursement, paid time off, and various wellness programs including access to the Calm App and telemedicine services.

First Watch values inclusivity and equal opportunity in its hiring practices and provides reasonable accommodations for employees with disabilities. This supportive and award-winning work culture makes the Restaurant Operations Manager role an exciting opportunity for individuals who are eager to lead a dedicated team and contribute to a thriving, community-conscious brand.

Job Requirements

Must be at least 21 years old
Must be eligible to work in the United States
Willingness to work morning shifts without night shifts
Ability to stand and be active during a full shift
Must obtain and maintain food safety certification
Must enroll in benefit programs within 30 days of hire when eligible
Ability to handle physical and mental demands of restaurant environment

Job Qualifications

High school diploma or equivalent
Previous experience in restaurant management or supervisory role preferred
Strong leadership and coaching skills
Excellent customer service and communication abilities
Knowledge of food safety standards and certification
Ability to manage and motivate a diverse team
Experience with managing daily restaurant operations and financial accountability
Problem-solving skills and ability to handle urgent situations
Proficiency with point of sale systems and administrative tasks

Job Duties

Learn and support the You First culture and core values
Put supervisory skills to work ensuring daily operations run smoothly according to plan and high standards
Follow recipes precisely and uphold the quality of sourced ingredients
Understand and work to exceed restaurant sales and traffic goals
Coach and observe the First Watch Five Steps of Service at every table
Respond promptly to customer and employee concerns
Communicate and address repair and maintenance needs immediately
Maintain food safety certification and coach safe food handling practices
Continuously recruit and interview team members
Secure company assets including POS and security systems
Understand key responsibilities for every restaurant position
Stop and investigate any inappropriate behavior
Train, coach, and develop team members daily
Recognize outstanding performance
Account for all daily revenues and deposits
Complete administrative duties and submit paperwork on time