Restaurant Operations Manager - Quick Hire!
Posted on October 24, 2025
First Watch is a leading daytime dining restaurant brand renowned for its commitment to serving made-to-order breakfast, brunch, and lunch using only the freshest and highest-quality ingredients. The company prides itself on its chef-driven menu that rotates five times a year, offering elevated versions of classic favorites along with innovative fresh juices and signature dishes like the Kale Tonic, Lemon Ricotta Pancakes, Quinoa Power Bowl, and its famous Million Dollar Bacon. Established with a philosophy known as "Follow the Sun," First Watch emphasizes seasonal and flavorful cuisine that continuously adapts to peak ingredient availability to deliver an exceptional dining experience.
With over 600 locations across 31 states, First Watch has garnered numerous local and national accolades, including multiple "Best Breakfast" and "Best Brunch" awards, as well as being voted the #1 Best Breakfast in 2025 by Newsweek's Readers' Choice Awards. The company is also proud to be recognized as the #1 Most Loved Workplace in America for 2024, a testament to its strong dedication to employee satisfaction and workplace culture. The brand's community commitment is evident through its ongoing charitable efforts, having donated over $1.7 million to organizations supporting children and positive impacts in local communities.
First Watch operates with a unique "YOU FIRST" culture—placing employees and their well-being as the top priority. The company fosters a positive, empowering environment where employees are encouraged to make independent decisions that enhance the customer experience during breakfast, brunch, and lunch services. This philosophy ensures that staff feel valued and supported, contributing to their professional growth and job satisfaction. Furthermore, First Watch commits to a work schedule free of night shifts, supporting a healthier work-life balance.
The Restaurant Operations Manager role at First Watch carries a crucial responsibility in bridging the gap between kitchen operations and guest service. Unlike traditional restaurant leadership models that separate front-of-house and back-of-house management, First Watch managers oversee all aspects of the restaurant operation to ensure consistency, quality, and a seamless dining experience. The manager leads by example, coaching team members to embrace the brand's core values and service standards, facilitating skill development and fostering a culture of hospitality and care.
This leadership position requires a passion for food, people, and hospitality. The successful manager is responsible for driving sales goals, maintaining high standards in food preparation and presentation, and ensuring adherence to health and safety regulations. They must also respond promptly to customer and employee concerns, manage repairs and maintenance issues, and maintain a secure work environment. Additionally, the Restaurant Operations Manager plays a key role in talent acquisition and training, continuously scouting for qualified candidates to join the team and nurturing their growth through daily coaching and recognition of outstanding performance.
Employee benefits reflect the company’s commitment to its people, offering a wide range of perks such as a 401(k) retirement savings program, life and disability insurance options, health, dental and vision benefits, meal discounts, tuition reimbursement, paid time off, and access to wellness and assistance programs. Quarterly bonus payments are available based on restaurant performance, rewarding managers who excel in their roles.
Equal opportunity employment is a cornerstone of the First Watch hiring philosophy, with accommodations made for qualified individuals with disabilities, ensuring an inclusive and supportive work environment for all. Those who join First Watch can expect a career path rich with opportunities for growth within a vibrant company culture that values each employee’s contributions and prioritizes their success and happiness.
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Prior experience in restaurant management or supervisory role preferred
- Food safety certification required
- Ability to work mornings and no availability for night shifts
- Strong communication and leadership skills
- Ability to handle multiple tasks and work in a fast-paced environment
- Must be 21 years or older to participate in certain benefit plans