Home Office Careers at First Watch

The Sr. Financial Analyst is responsible for providing analytical and financial support across all areas of the Business. This position will play a key role in the company’s financial planning function as well as driving operational efficiency through reporting and analysis. The role will partner with leadership and senior managers to monitor key performance metrics, understand sales/traffic/product mix trends, and analyze the company’s financial results.

This role requires a self-starter with excellent business modeling skills, a keen attention to detail and focus on time management as well as the ability to challenge conventional thinking in a fast-paced environment. The ideal candidate can work seamlessly across multiple functions, including operations, marketing, supply chain, culinary, and other support teams, to evaluate and influence decisions/programs that affect how we run our restaurants, drive demand and manage costs.

The essential functions in this job description are not all-inclusive of this position’s duties and responsibilities. Reliable and dependable attendance is required.

• Forecasting/Budgeting: Participate in quarterly, as well as annual and multi-year financial forecasts/budgets, typically working with broader organization to understand and test key forecast/budget assumptions and model alternate scenarios. Construct and maintain models in support of the forecast/budget process.  Play key role in unit-level planning process.
• Sales/Product Mix Analysis: Analyze sales, traffic, and product mix trends.  Understand performance of current limited-time offerings and project impact of future ones.  Perform pricing analyses as necessary. 
• Determine how product mix behavior is impacting our COGS. Effectively communicate all insights to leadership.
• Perform testing analysis and effectively communicate the risk or upside of potential marketing tactics or menu changes.
• Ad-hoc Reporting/Analysis: Provide robust and accurate ad-hoc financial analysis and effectively present the results and recommendations to senior leadership.  Report on week, period, quarter, and annual financial performance to the leadership team, and prepare explanations of variances to budget.

• Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Mathematics, Statistics, or analytical discipline with 4+ years of corporate financial planning experience
• Proficiency in both Excel and PowerPoint
• Excellent financial modeling skills, and the ability to turn data into insights and make recommendations regarding improvements to profitability
• Strong background in financial statements including Income Statement, Balance Sheet, and Statement of Cash Flow
• Demonstrated success in generating budgets, analyzing P&L results, and reporting financials
• Advanced analytical skills with sound business judgement and high level of attention to detail
• Outstanding communication skills, both written and oral, and the ability to communicate with multiple levels of the organization
• Ability to work on multiple projects, with cross-functional teams across all levels of the organization, and to meet deadlines
• Nimbleness and adaptability to changes in priorities
• Curiosity, self-drive, and enthusiasm to deliver results and improve the existing processes

First Watch is the leading Daytime Dining concept serving made-to-order breakfast, brunch and lunch using fresh ingredients. A recipient of hundreds of local “Best Breakfast” and “Best Brunch” accolades, First Watch's chef-driven menu rotates five times a year and includes elevated executions of classic favorites alongside specialties such as its Quinoa Power Bowl, Lemon Ricotta Pancakes, Chickichanga, Morning Meditation fresh juice and signature Million Dollar Bacon. After first appearing on the list in 2022 and 2023, First Watch was named 2024’s #1 Most Loved Workplace® in America by Newsweek and the Best Practice Institute. In 2023, First Watch was named the top restaurant brand in Yelp’s inaugural list of the top 50 most-loved brands in the U.S. In 2022, First Watch was awarded a sought-after MenuMasters honor by Nation's Restaurant News for its seasonal Braised Short Rib Omelet. First Watch operates more than 540 First Watch restaurants in 29 states. For more information, visit www.firstwatch.com.

First Watch is an equal opportunity employer.  In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, First Watch will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.

As a member of the Construction Team this individual will primarily be responsible for estimating and managing new restaurant openings (NRO’s) and Renovation Projects.  This includes tracking and ordering from all owner vendors as well as hiring and supporting a network of general contractors to ensure timelines and budgets are met. 

The essential functions in this job description are not all-inclusive of this position’s duties and responsibilities.  Reliable and dependable attendance is required.

• Assists with due diligence, estimates and contract negotiations. Participates in development and reconciliation of capital estimates
• Protects brand standards and quality control over new development projects
• Ensures construction administration process is developed and executed. Manages project expenditures and job cost accounting processes including accuracy, documentation, approvals, payment reporting, and tracking
• Ensures compliance with company, industry, trade, and jurisdictional safety standards, practices, codes
• Obtains bids from vendors and subcontractors, identify qualified subcontractors, and negotiate pricing
• Responsible for the development of the project schedule and schedule updates
• Performs project close out including final paperwork, job walk through and any other follow up items with restaurant operations teams
• Ensures inspections and permits are approved and closed out prior to restaurant turn over dates

• Bachelor's Degree in Construction Management, Architecture or Engineering, preferred
• 2-5 years’ experience working on commercial construction projects.  Restaurant/retail experience a plus
• Experience managing subcontractors or a subcontractor-based business preferred
• Strong working knowledge of regulations and permits required
• Track record of successful project completions and high customer satisfaction
• Ability to travel up to 70% of the time to visit job sites and commute to the corporate office in Bradenton, Florida when not traveling

First Watch is the leading Daytime Dining concept serving made-to-order breakfast, brunch and lunch using fresh ingredients. A recipient of hundreds of local “Best Breakfast” and “Best Brunch” accolades, First Watch's chef-driven menu rotates five times a year and includes elevated executions of classic favorites alongside specialties such as its Quinoa Power Bowl, Lemon Ricotta Pancakes, Chickichanga, Morning Meditation fresh juice and signature Million Dollar Bacon. After first appearing on the list in 2022 and 2023, First Watch was named 2024’s #1 Most Loved Workplace® in America by Newsweek and the Best Practice Institute. In 2023, First Watch was named the top restaurant brand in Yelp’s inaugural list of the top 50 most-loved brands in the U.S. In 2022, First Watch was awarded a sought-after MenuMasters honor by Nation's Restaurant News for its seasonal Braised Short Rib Omelet. First Watch operates more than 540 First Watch restaurants in 29 states. For more information, visit www.firstwatch.com.

First Watch is an equal opportunity employer.  In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, First Watch will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.

Staff accountant will be engaged in various accounting tasks such as creating journal entries, performing reconciliations, carrying out monthly close procedures and other accounting duties. The ideal candidate will have U.S. GAAP Accounting knowledge (degree), ability to learn quickly and work with a high volume of data, solid communication skills and work well in a team environment. CPA preferred.

The essential functions in this job description are not all-inclusive of this position’s duties and responsibilities.  Reliable and dependable attendance is required.

• Manage assigned projects by prioritizing work to meet established deadlines, ensuring that accounting objectives are accomplished and keeping leadership informed of project status and issues
• Prepare journal entries, including supporting documentation
• Perform reconciliations of assigned accounts utilizing Blackline
• Perform analytics and provide support for explanations
• Adhere to timelines in support of Public Company SEC and other reporting deadlines
• Document accounting processes and procedures in assigned areas
• Communicate with and provide requested information to management and internal/external auditors
• Work collaboratively within the Accounting team and with other Corporate functions
• Identify, develop and implement solutions to drive accounting efficiencies
• Become subject matter expert for assigned accounting areas
• Support other accounting related projects and functions as assigned
• Adhere to Company policies and procedures

• CPA preferred
• Degree with a concentration in Accounting
• Understanding of U.S. GAAP and Internal Controls
• Public Accounting experience a plus
• Ability to handle multiple, concurrent assignments and meet deadlines
• Excellent communication skills
• Experience within the retail, restaurant, or similar industry that includes multiple locations in various states helpful
• Experience in a Public Company/SEC reporting environment a plus
• Ability to manipulate large amounts of data/Advanced Microsoft Excel skills

First Watch is the leading Daytime Dining concept serving made-to-order breakfast, brunch and lunch using fresh ingredients. A recipient of hundreds of local “Best Breakfast” and “Best Brunch” accolades, First Watch's chef-driven menu rotates five times a year and includes elevated executions of classic favorites alongside specialties such as its Quinoa Power Bowl, Lemon Ricotta Pancakes, Chickichanga, Morning Meditation fresh juice and signature Million Dollar Bacon. After first appearing on the list in 2022 and 2023, First Watch was named 2024’s #1 Most Loved Workplace® in America by Newsweek and the Best Practice Institute. In 2023, First Watch was named the top restaurant brand in Yelp’s inaugural list of the top 50 most-loved brands in the U.S. In 2022, First Watch was awarded a sought-after MenuMasters honor by Nation's Restaurant News for its seasonal Braised Short Rib Omelet. First Watch operates more than 540 First Watch restaurants in 29 states. For more information, visit www.firstwatch.com.

First Watch is an equal opportunity employer.  In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, First Watch will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.

The Food Safety Manager will support First Watch restaurants by promoting the highest levels of food safety and product quality through partnerships with stakeholders, restaurant operations, restaurant support teams, as well as third party auditing agencies. This position will take an active role in advancing food safety, the employee wellness program and quality by sharing best practices and communicating effectively with our operations, supply chain and support teams.

The essential functions in this job description are not all-inclusive of this position’s duties and responsibilities.  Reliable and dependable attendance is required.

• Support the ongoing development of the First Watch food safety & cleanliness standards, procedures, and resources that support clean, safe, quality and efficient restaurants
• Manage relationships and support the First Watch third-party audit program to proactively mitigate critical food safety and food quality risks
• Continuously drive the third-party audit results through deployment of risk-based approaches to restaurant food safety, working with operations to drive results
• Provide leadership and guidance to third-party service providers to ensure optimal services are rendered to support the food safety and quality programs for First Watch
• Enhance food safety training tools to drive food safety culture while providing cross-functional support for growth and acquisitions. Train and support operator partners to drive continuous improvements in food safety and handling procedures to minimize risk and improve quality
• Predictively and proactively identify non-compliances utilizing data, trends and analytics to assure food safety and ensure corrective actions are immediately implemented
• Support the food safety and quality management software data needs for the QAFS department
• Monitor regulatory and industry landscapes for changes, issues, and advancements pertinent to First Watch restaurants
• Build trust and maintain positive, productive working relationships with operations, regulatory agencies and vendors

• Bachelor's Degree preferred in Food Science, Environmental, Public Health or a combination of related experience and education
• Minimum of 3 years of work experience in food safety or public health within the retail/restaurant/hospitality field
• Certified Food Safety Professional (CFSP) or Registered Sanitarian (RS) credential preferred
• ANSI-Accredited (i.e., ServSafe or equivalent) certified food protection manager
• Experience in food safety audits in restaurants or retail foodservice establishments
• Ability to support restaurant food safety, sanitation, and pest management programs
• Solid understanding and knowledge of FDA Model Food Code, HACCP, foodborne risk factors and good retail practices, and State or local health department regulatory requirements
• Proficient computer skills (Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook)
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work with a diverse group of people
• Excellent oral and written communication skills with emphasis on team development and leadership
• Ability to coach and provide direction to suppliers, operations including recommendations to internal teams
• Problem solving and decision-making skills
• Capable of thinking analytically, planning strategically and setting priorities while communicating to all levels of the organization
• Project management skills including the ability to prioritize and organize assignments

First Watch is the leading Daytime Dining concept serving made-to-order breakfast, brunch and lunch using fresh ingredients. A recipient of hundreds of local “Best Breakfast” and “Best Brunch” accolades, First Watch's chef-driven menu rotates five times a year and includes elevated executions of classic favorites alongside specialties such as its Quinoa Power Bowl, Lemon Ricotta Pancakes, Chickichanga, Morning Meditation fresh juice and signature Million Dollar Bacon. After first appearing on the list in 2022 and 2023, First Watch was named 2024’s #1 Most Loved Workplace® in America by Newsweek and the Best Practice Institute. In 2023, First Watch was named the top restaurant brand in Yelp’s inaugural list of the top 50 most-loved brands in the U.S. In 2022, First Watch was awarded a sought-after MenuMasters honor by Nation's Restaurant News for its seasonal Braised Short Rib Omelet. First Watch operates more than 540 First Watch restaurants in 29 states. For more information, visit www.firstwatch.com.

First Watch is an equal opportunity employer.  In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, First Watch will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.

The Director of Operations is responsible for supporting the mission, vision and values of First Watch through all that he/she does in their role every day. The DO’s primary purpose is to develop General Managers and restaurant management teams to build and increase sales over the previous year and improve profitability, while ensuring employee and guest satisfaction, without compromising the integrity or You First culture of the concept. The Director of Operations is responsible for the success of all First Watch operations within their span of control (5-8 direct reports and 200-300 employees).

• Leads operational activities for a group of First Watch Restaurants by performing the following in accordance with Company guidelines regarding management development, sales, and profitability, planning and customer and employee relations
• Trains, coaches and develops General Managers and Operations Managers, through timely performance and observation feedback and evaluations
• Follows up on training of MIT's/CAFE’s and hourly employees. Works closely with the Training General Manager to monitor progress
• Ensures development of Operations Managers within compliance of the FW management development programs
• Through effective manpower planning executes the continuous development of the management team and ensures timely and cost effective recruitment of restaurant level management and their training within First Watch
• Ensures the maintenance of a safe and harassment free workplace in all restaurants
• Takes quick and responsible action in solving problems and able to uses reason when dealing with individual or staff performance based issues to include personality conflicts
• Develops for prior approval and then meets or exceeds the area’s budget, including capital investments, General and Administrative expenses
• Promotes First Watch outside the restaurant

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent – concentration in food & beverage, business, marketing or management is preferred
• Five to seven years of progressive leadership experience in multi unit restaurant industry operations
• Proven track record of achieving results and building & maintaining successful teams
• Passion for providing excellent service and quality
• Ability to partner and build relationships while demonstrating leadership and integrity and promoting team success
• Extensive knowledge of the principles, procedures, and best practices in the industry
• Ability to work well under pressure in a fast paced, dynamic environment
• Valid driver's license and ability to travel frequently within assigned market

First Watch is the leading Daytime Dining concept serving made-to-order breakfast, brunch and lunch using fresh ingredients. A recipient of hundreds of local “Best Breakfast” and “Best Brunch” accolades, First Watch's chef-driven menu rotates five times a year and includes elevated executions of classic favorites alongside specialties such as its Quinoa Power Bowl, Lemon Ricotta Pancakes, Chickichanga, Morning Meditation fresh juice and signature Million Dollar Bacon. After first appearing on the list in 2022 and 2023, First Watch was named 2024’s #1 Most Loved Workplace® in America by Newsweek and the Best Practice Institute. In 2023, First Watch was named the top restaurant brand in Yelp’s inaugural list of the top 50 most-loved brands in the U.S. In 2022, First Watch was awarded a sought-after MenuMasters honor by Nation's Restaurant News for its seasonal Braised Short Rib Omelet. First Watch operates more than 540 First Watch restaurants in 29 states. For more information, visit www.firstwatch.com.

First Watch is an equal opportunity employer.  In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, First Watch will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.