Restaurant Operations Manager

First Watch is a renowned daytime dining restaurant specializing in made-to-order breakfast, brunch, and lunch using the freshest ingredients available. As a chef-driven concept, First Watch follows a unique "Follow the Sun" culinary philosophy, offering a seasonally rotating menu that features elevated versions of classic favorites, fresh juices, and fan favorites such as Lemon Ricotta Pancakes, Quinoa Power Bowl, and their signature Million Dollar Bacon. With over 630 locations across 32 states, First Watch has a strong presence in the restaurant industry and is recognized for its commitment to quality, sustainability, and community impact. The company has raised approximately $2 million through its Kids Program donations and has been honored with numerous awards including #1 Best Breakfast by Newsweek's Readers' Choice Awards 2025 and #1 Most Loved Workplace in America by the Best Practice Institute for several consecutive years.

First Watch operates with a strong focus on its employees, embodied in their "YOU FIRST" philosophy which prioritizes the well-being and happiness of their team. The company maintains a supportive work environment with no night shifts, opportunities for career growth, and a comprehensive benefits package. Employees are empowered to make decisions that enhance the customer dining experience, fostering a culture where team members feel valued and motivated. This culture emphasizes mutual respect, employee development, and a shared passion for excellent customer service.

As a Restaurant Operations Manager at First Watch, you will play a pivotal role in maintaining the company's standards and delivering exceptional experiences. This leadership position requires a passion for mornings and hospitality, with a commitment to coaching and developing team members who are enthusiastic about serving customers. The role is unique in its combined responsibility for both kitchen operations and front-of-house management, breaking away from traditional segregated restaurant management structures. Managers are deeply involved in the daily operations, ensuring adherence to recipes, food safety standards, and customer service protocols while leading their team to exceed sales and traffic goals.

In this position, you will oversee restaurant performance, manage staffing and training, address customer and employee concerns promptly and effectively, and ensure financial accuracy in daily revenue and deposits. Your responsibilities also include enforcing company policies, maintaining security of the restaurant's assets, and carrying out administrative duties. First Watch looks for managers who embody their core values, put the "You First" culture into practice, and demonstrate a strong ownership mindset. Certification in food safety and a background in hospitality management are highly valued to maintain the highest operational and health standards.

Joining First Watch means becoming part of a passionate team that values your leadership and dedication while providing a stable, rewarding work environment where you can build a fulfilling career. The company emphasizes work-life balance with no night shifts and comprehensive benefits including health, dental, vision insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, tuition reimbursement, and wellness programs. If you’re energized by the aroma of bacon in the morning and excited to lead a team that delivers outstanding dining experiences, First Watch could be the perfect place for your next career move.