Job Overview
Employment Type
Full-time
Work Schedule
Day Shifts
Benefits
Health Insurance
Dental Insurance
Vision Insurance
Life insurance
short term disability
long term disability
401(K) retirement savings program
Employee assistance program
Tuition Reimbursement
Paid Time Off
Meal Discount
Childcare Discount Program
Job Description
First Watch is a premier daytime dining restaurant chain specializing in made-to-order breakfast, brunch, and lunch. With over 660 locations across 33 states, First Watch has built a strong reputation for serving fresh, high-quality food inspired by its chef-driven culinary philosophy called "Follow the Sun." This innovative approach ensures the menu features the freshest ingredients and seasonal flavors, delivering elevated versions of classic dishes alongside fan favorites like the Lemon Ricotta Pancakes, Quinoa Power Bowl, and signature Million Dollar Bacon. The company is a recognized industry leader, earning accolades such as Best Breakfast by Newsweek's Readers' Choice Awards 2025 and the Most Loved Workplace in America for consecutive years. Beyond its culinary excellence, First Watch strongly commits to community engagement, having raised approximately $2.3 million through donations linked to their kids' meals.
First Watch's YOU FIRST philosophy is the cornerstone of their culture, emphasizing employee happiness and empowerment. This philosophy shatters traditional restaurant hierarchies by giving managers autonomy and encouraging decisions that provide exceptional customer experiences. The company prioritizes employee well-being through benefits such as no night shifts, a comprehensive assistance program, retirement plans, health insurance, tuition reimbursement, and more. Their supportive environment promotes growth, career development, and a healthy work-life balance, distinguishing First Watch as an employer of choice.
The Restaurant Operations Manager at First Watch plays a vital role in maintaining the high standards of the brand while supporting their YOU FIRST values. This position offers an exciting opportunity to lead both front-of-house and back-of-house teams holistically, ensuring seamless daily operations with a focus on food quality, customer service, and restaurant performance. Managers coach employees, enforce food safety, handle administrative tasks, and actively contribute to a positive workplace culture that aligns with the company’s core commitments. They actively participate in recruiting, training, and integrating new talent, while also overseeing property security and maintenance issues. In addition to a competitive salary, managers are eligible for quarterly bonuses tied to the restaurant’s performance, reinforcing incentives for excellence at every level.
Working as a Restaurant Operations Manager at First Watch means becoming part of an award-winning organization that values your contribution and provides extensive support to foster your success in a dynamic and fast-paced environment. This role suits individuals passionate about hospitality, leadership, and quality food service who are eager to be part of a culture that genuinely puts employees first — more than even their beloved bacon. With an emphasis on team development, operational excellence, and a strong ethical foundation, First Watch offers a fulfilling career opportunity where your efforts directly impact customer satisfaction and business growth across a thriving network of restaurants.
First Watch's YOU FIRST philosophy is the cornerstone of their culture, emphasizing employee happiness and empowerment. This philosophy shatters traditional restaurant hierarchies by giving managers autonomy and encouraging decisions that provide exceptional customer experiences. The company prioritizes employee well-being through benefits such as no night shifts, a comprehensive assistance program, retirement plans, health insurance, tuition reimbursement, and more. Their supportive environment promotes growth, career development, and a healthy work-life balance, distinguishing First Watch as an employer of choice.
The Restaurant Operations Manager at First Watch plays a vital role in maintaining the high standards of the brand while supporting their YOU FIRST values. This position offers an exciting opportunity to lead both front-of-house and back-of-house teams holistically, ensuring seamless daily operations with a focus on food quality, customer service, and restaurant performance. Managers coach employees, enforce food safety, handle administrative tasks, and actively contribute to a positive workplace culture that aligns with the company’s core commitments. They actively participate in recruiting, training, and integrating new talent, while also overseeing property security and maintenance issues. In addition to a competitive salary, managers are eligible for quarterly bonuses tied to the restaurant’s performance, reinforcing incentives for excellence at every level.
Working as a Restaurant Operations Manager at First Watch means becoming part of an award-winning organization that values your contribution and provides extensive support to foster your success in a dynamic and fast-paced environment. This role suits individuals passionate about hospitality, leadership, and quality food service who are eager to be part of a culture that genuinely puts employees first — more than even their beloved bacon. With an emphasis on team development, operational excellence, and a strong ethical foundation, First Watch offers a fulfilling career opportunity where your efforts directly impact customer satisfaction and business growth across a thriving network of restaurants.
Job Requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent
- at least 2 years of restaurant or hospitality management experience
- certified in food safety
- ability to work morning shifts with no night shifts
- strong problem-solving and decision-making skills
- effective leadership and team coaching abilities
- excellent verbal and written communication skills
- capacity to handle urgent maintenance and operational issues
- commitment to upholding company culture and customer service standards
Job Qualifications
- High school diploma or equivalent
- previous management experience in a restaurant or hospitality environment
- knowledge of food safety standards and certification
- strong leadership and team development skills
- excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- customer service orientation
- ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities effectively
- familiarity with restaurant POS systems and administrative responsibilities
Job Duties
- Learn and support the You First culture and core values
- supervise daily operations ensuring high standards and smooth workflow
- follow and enforce recipe consistency and food quality
- monitor and work to exceed restaurant sales and traffic goals
- coach staff on the First Watch Five Steps of Service
- implement the 10 Commitments in daily operations
- respond promptly to customer and employee concerns
- manage repair and maintenance issues with urgency
- maintain food safety certification and coach safe food handling practices
- recruit, interview, and onboard team members
- secure company assets including POS and equipment
- understand responsibilities of all restaurant positions
- address and investigate inappropriate behavior
- train, coach, and develop team members continuously
- recognize outstanding employee performance
- oversee daily revenue accounting and deposits
- complete administrative duties and paperwork on time
Job Criteria
Experience
Mid Level (3-7 years)
Job Location
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