Restaurant Operations Manager

First Watch is a distinguished leader in the daytime dining industry, known for its commitment to providing high-quality breakfast, brunch, and lunch experiences. Operating over 630 restaurants across 32 states, First Watch has crafted a reputation for fresh, chef-curated menus combined with an exceptional customer service model. The company follows a unique "Follow the Sun" culinary philosophy, which ensures that the menu rotates multiple times a year to feature ingredients and flavors at their peak. This dedication to quality has earned First Watch numerous awards, including "Best Breakfast" by Newsweek's Readers' Choice Awards for 2025 and recognition as the #1 Most Loved Workplace in America by the Best Practice Institute for multiple years. Beyond the food, First Watch prioritizes social responsibility by donating a portion of proceeds from every kid's meal to impactful community organizations, highlighting its commitment to giving back and fostering positive change.

The First Watch culture centers on a YOU FIRST philosophy, emphasizing the importance of its people — both employees and customers. This philosophy manifests in no night shifts ever, empowering employees with decision-making independence, and fostering a supportive environment where team members feel valued and motivated. Benefits include a comprehensive employee assistance program, retirement savings options, various insurance plans, tuition reimbursement, discounted meals, and much more. The company values employee wellness and career growth, offering unique perks such as complimentary access to wellness apps, childcare discounts, and paid time off to ensure a balanced work-life experience.

The Restaurant Operations Manager role at First Watch plays a vital part in this culture of excellence. Managers are not only responsible for overseeing daily restaurant operations but also embody the YOU FIRST core values by fostering a positive team environment that promotes growth and development. This role is ideal for those with a passion for morning dining and a dedication to exceptional customer experiences. Managers at First Watch reject traditional back-of-house and front-of-house divisions, instead embracing a holistic approach to restaurant management. They lead both kitchen and dining service teams, ensuring adherence to high-quality standards, food safety practices, and operational excellence.

In this role, you will utilize your leadership skills to coach, mentor, and inspire your team, ensuring that every guest experiences the signature First Watch hospitality. You will be responsible for achieving sales and traffic goals, upholding food preparation integrity, and implementing the First Watch Five Steps of Service system. Your ability to respond promptly to customer and employee concerns, maintain security of company assets, and oversee day-to-day administrative tasks will be crucial.

This position offers a unique blend of operational responsibilities and people-focused leadership with a generous package of benefits, including eligibility for quarterly bonuses based on restaurant performance. If you love mornings, take pride in delivering an exceptional dining experience, and want to be part of a company that genuinely cares about its people, the Restaurant Operations Manager position at First Watch offers a compelling and rewarding career path.