Restaurant Operations Manager

First Watch is a nationally renowned daytime dining restaurant chain that specializes in made-to-order breakfast, brunch, and lunch menus crafted from the freshest ingredients available. Embodying a "Follow the Sun" culinary philosophy, First Watch’s chef-curated menu rotates multiple times per year to present elevated versions of classic favorites alongside innovative new dishes. Noteworthy menu items include crowd-pleasers like the Lemon Ricotta Pancakes, Quinoa Power Bowl, and their signature Million Dollar Bacon. Beyond delicious food, First Watch is deeply committed to community impact, proudly donating a portion from every kid’s meal sold to meaningful organizations, amounting to approximately $2 million raised to date. The company has earned numerous accolades including "Best Breakfast" and "Best Brunch" awards, as well as being voted the #1 Best Breakfast by Newsweek’s Readers’ Choice Awards in 2025. Moreover, First Watch has been recognized as the #1 Most Loved Workplace in America for multiple consecutive years, a testament to its dedication to an outstanding work environment and a supportive employee culture.

First Watch operates more than 630 restaurants across 32 states and emphasizes a unique YOU FIRST philosophy. This philosophy underscores the company’s belief in valuing and empowering its employees above all else. The company is devoted to creating a positive and inclusive workplace where employees are encouraged to thrive and grow. Key benefits supporting this culture include no night shifts ever, generous paid time off, extensive health and dental coverage, retirement savings plans, employee assistance programs, and tuition reimbursement opportunities. Employees also enjoy perks such as premium wellness app subscriptions, backup childcare, numerous discounts, and meal discounts.

The role of Restaurant Operations Manager at First Watch is designed for individuals who not only love mornings and the aroma of freshly cooked breakfast but also genuinely care about serving others and creating memorable dining experiences. Unlike traditional management structures that separate front-of-house and back-of-house responsibilities, First Watch expects its managers to oversee both kitchen operations and dining service, ensuring quality, consistency, and a smooth guest experience throughout the restaurant. The manager’s role is hands-on, requiring strong leadership skills to coach and develop the team daily, maintain food safety standards, achieve sales targets, and uphold operational excellence.

Restaurant Operations Managers at First Watch are empowered to lead with autonomy and make decisions that directly impact the restaurant’s success while fostering a culture where team members feel valued and motivated. This role is ideal for those who thrive in dynamic environments and have a passion for hospitality and team development. Managers benefit from quarterly bonuses based on restaurant performance, emphasizing the company’s commitment to rewarding leadership and results. First Watch encourages a culture of accountability and continuous improvement, with managers actively involved in hiring, training, and recognizing outstanding performance.

The position also includes administrative responsibilities such as managing daily revenues, completing necessary paperwork timely, and ensuring all company assets are secure. The manager must maintain familiarity with the restaurant’s sales goals, operational standards, and service protocols, including adherence to the First Watch Five Steps of Service and the 10 Commitments guiding daily operations and guest interactions. This is a career growth opportunity within a leading daytime dining company known for its exceptional food quality, employee-first mindset, and strong community engagement. If you are passionate about morning hospitality and leadership in a vibrant, supportive environment, a Restaurant Operations Manager role at First Watch could be the perfect fit.