Restaurant Operations Manager

First Watch is a nationally recognized leader in the Daytime Dining industry, dedicated to serving fresh, made-to-order breakfast, brunch, and lunch by utilizing the freshest ingredients available. The company operates more than 630 restaurants across 32 states, making it a significant player in the restaurant sector with a robust footprint. Notably, First Watch is committed to quality and community engagement, proudly donating a portion of proceeds from every kid's meal served to impactful organizations, raising approximately $2 million to date. Known for its innovative "Follow the Sun" culinary philosophy, First Watch features a chef-curated menu that rotates multiple times per year to showcase the freshest, highest-quality flavors. Popular dishes such as the Lemon Ricotta Pancakes, Quinoa Power Bowl, and their signature Million Dollar Bacon have earned them prestigious accolades, including the #1 Best Breakfast by Newsweek’s Readers’ Choice Awards for 2025. Additionally, First Watch has been repeatedly recognized as the #1 Most Loved Workplace in America by the Best Practice Institute, establishing a strong reputation for employee satisfaction and company culture, as recently highlighted in The Wall Street Journal.

The company culture revolves around a unique YOU FIRST philosophy, which prioritizes their people above all else—employees are empowered with independence and trusted decision-making capabilities to enhance the customer experience. The company guarantees no night shifts, emphasizing a healthy work-life balance, and offers a dynamic, engaging work environment where employees are truly valued and cared for more than even their famous bacon. This people-first approach creates a supportive, motivating atmosphere where team members can thrive and grow their careers with comprehensive support and benefits packages.

The role of Restaurant Operations Manager at First Watch is a pivotal leadership position that blends operational excellence with a passion for people and food. This full-time role involves supervising both front-of-house and back-of-house operations, supporting the restaurant’s core values, and upholding First Watch’s high standards. Managers love mornings and are passionate about serving others, coaching and developing their teams to deliver exceptional customer service and memorable dining experiences. Key responsibilities include ensuring daily operations run smoothly, adhering strictly to food quality standards and recipes, managing sales and traffic goals, and fostering a strong culture of safety and security.

Restaurant Operations Managers play an active role in staff development through training and performance recognition, enforcing the First Watch Five Steps of Service, and maintaining a safe, welcoming environment that promotes teamwork and customer satisfaction. The position also requires regular engagement with hiring activities, employee relations, maintenance oversight, and administrative duties such as revenue accounting and paperwork compliance. First Watch encourages managers to embody the company's values — supporting a cycle of positivity from employees to customers that sustains the vitality and success of each restaurant.

The comprehensive benefits provided to Restaurant Operations Managers and all employees make this an attractive career opportunity. Benefits include competitive quarterly bonuses tied to restaurant performance, 401(k) retirement savings plans with eligibility after 60 days, extensive insurance offerings (life, short-term and long-term disability, dental, vision, supplemental insurance), and wellness programs such as premium access to the Calm App. Employees also receive perks including meal discounts, tuition reimbursement, childcare discount programs, paid time off, and access to employee assistance resources. All these combine to create a fulfilling work experience where First Watch’s commitment to individuals is as pronounced as its commitment to great food and service.