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Home Office Careers at First Watch

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First Watch Home Office Team

We are builders of our “You First” culture and exist to support our restaurants, our people and our company’s growth.

Employee Stories

Why First Watch? Reason #1

Flexible work environment

We offer intentional flexibility to allow for a healthy work/life balance.

Why First Watch? Reason #2

When we feel our best, we do our best.

That’s why we offer wellness rooms, standing desks, a mother’s room and gym in the home office.

Why First Watch? Reason #3

Free lunch Fridays

What can we say? We love food. Every Friday enjoy a free catered lunch.

Why First Watch? Reason #4

We love our pawject managers

We recognize dogs can reduce stress, encourage exercise, improve teamwork and boost morale.

Home Office Positions

Director of Operations

Location: Franklin

Overview

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).

 


Responsibilities

  • 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

 


Qualifications

  • 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

 


Who We Are

First Watch is the leading Daytime Dining concept serving made-to-order breakfast, brunch and lunch using the freshest ingredients available. Guided by its “Follow the Sun” culinary philosophy, First Watch’s chef-driven menu rotates multiple times per year to feature the highest-quality flavors at their peak, offering elevated executions of classic favorites, fresh juices like the Kale Tonic, and fan favorites such as the Lemon Ricotta Pancakes, Quinoa Power Bowl and signature Million Dollar Bacon. For every kid’s meal served, First Watch proudly donates a portion to organizations and causes making a positive impact to our communities – raising approximately $2.0 million to date. A recipient of many “Best Breakfast” and “Best Brunch” awards, First Watch was voted #1 Best Breakfast by Newsweek’s Readers’ Choice Awards 2025, and also named 2025 and 2024’s #1 Most Loved Workplace in America by the Best Practice Institute – an accolade most recently featured in The Wall Street Journal – after appearing on the list in 2022 and 2023, as well. With a commitment to quality, hospitality and community, First Watch is redefining Daytime Dining across more than 630 First Watch restaurants in 32 states. For more information, visitwww.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.

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IT Security Analyst - Technical

Location: Bradenton

Overview

The IT Security Analyst is responsible for supporting and analyzing the Company’s IT security and compliance documentation, process, procedures, and audits. The IT Security Analyst will participate in conducting overall security assessments through vulnerability testing and risk analysis.  In addition, the role will act as a liaison between the business and IT ensuring all security processes and procedures are being followed in the organization while working with IT leadership to identify new and current software solutions and controls are in place to secure both online and on-premises infrastructures.

 


Responsibilities

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

  • Assess, gather, and present data for the internal audit process for user rights access management for access to all required systems.
  • Support annual PCI audit process and documentation delivery to ensure business is compliant to PCI standards.
  • Understand security related patching process, log & event correlation, and related reporting tools.
  • Coordinate annual penetration and weekly vulnerability scanning with 3rd party partner.
  • Understand and complete monthly application security scanning/external websites.
  • Assist in reviewing annual policies, procedures, and control processes to ensure proper execution. This may include creating procedural documentation and runbooks to support compliance and audit efforts.
  • Assist in planning and performing walk-throughs as determined by internal and external auditors.
  • Analyze IT requirements and provide objective advice on the use of IT security requirements
  • Work with IT Leaderships and Training to create and update security training programs to train employees on security awareness
  • Provide insights on the efficacy of the current security policies, incident responses, disaster recovery plans, and other security-related information.

 


Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience required
  • Minimum of two years’ IT\cyber security experience is required
  • Strong understanding of MS AD and, Intune Azure AD
  • Experienced in operating and reporting with the following platforms: SIEM,EDR/XDR/MDR, & Vulnerability/Penetration testing systems
  • Halo experience is preferred
  • N-Able RMM tool experience is helpful
  • Experience with SaaS, EASM, FIM, CSPM, CSAM
  • Experience with phishing and email filtering tools
  • Qualys and CrowdStrike experience is helpful
  • Restaurant IT support experience is preferred

 


Who We Are

First Watch is the leading Daytime Dining concept serving made-to-order breakfast, brunch and lunch using the freshest ingredients available. Guided by its “Follow the Sun” culinary philosophy, First Watch’s chef-driven menu rotates multiple times per year to feature the highest-quality flavors at their peak, offering elevated executions of classic favorites, fresh juices like the Kale Tonic, and fan favorites such as the Lemon Ricotta Pancakes, Quinoa Power Bowl and signature Million Dollar Bacon. For every kid’s meal served, First Watch proudly donates a portion to organizations and causes making a positive impact to our communities – raising approximately $2.0 million to date. A recipient of many “Best Breakfast” and “Best Brunch” awards, First Watch was voted #1 Best Breakfast by Newsweek’s Readers’ Choice Awards 2025, and also named 2025 and 2024’s #1 Most Loved Workplace in America by the Best Practice Institute – an accolade most recently featured in The Wall Street Journal – after appearing on the list in 2022 and 2023, as well. With a commitment to quality, hospitality and community, First Watch is redefining Daytime Dining across more than 630 First Watch restaurants in 32 states. For more information, visitwww.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.

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Junior Cloud Engineer

Location: Bradenton

Overview

The Junior Cloud Engineer assists in designing, deploying, and maintaining cloud infrastructure in Microsoft Azure. Collaborating with peers and IT teams, they help ensure that cloud systems are secure, scalable, and reliable. Their responsibilities include provisioning resources, monitoring system performance, troubleshooting issues, and applying the best cloud practices, all while developing their technical skills in Azure services and DevOps approaches.

 


Responsibilities

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

  • Assist with provisioning and managing Azure resources such as virtual machines, storage accounts, and networking components
  • Support the deployment and setup of cloud-based applications and services
  • Monitor system performance and availability using Azure tools, proactively identifying issues
  • Troubleshoot infrastructure and application problems, escalating complex cases when necessary
  • Participate in implementing security best practices, including access controls and governance standards
  • Help automate tasks with scripting tools like PowerShell and Azure CLI
  • Support CI/CD pipelines and deployment processes alongside development teams
  • Maintain documentation for cloud environments, configurations, and procedures
  • Collaborate with internal teams to ensure cloud service stability, reliability, and performance
  • Continuously explore and evaluate new Azure services and features to enhance operations

 


Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field (or equivalent experience)
  • 1–3 years of experience in IT, cloud, or infrastructure roles
  • Basic understanding of Microsoft Azure services (compute, storage, and networking)
  • Familiarity with cloud concepts such as virtualization, scalability, and high availability
  • Exposure to scripting or automation tools such as PowerShell or Python
  • Understanding of basic networking concepts (DNS, VPNs, and load balancing)
  • Strong problem-solving and analytical skills
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment and manage multiple tasks effectively
  • Strong communication skills and a willingness to learn

 


Who We Are

First Watch is the leading Daytime Dining concept serving made-to-order breakfast, brunch and lunch using the freshest ingredients available. Guided by its “Follow the Sun” culinary philosophy, First Watch’s chef-driven menu rotates multiple times per year to feature the highest-quality flavors at their peak, offering elevated executions of classic favorites, fresh juices like the Kale Tonic, and fan favorites such as the Lemon Ricotta Pancakes, Quinoa Power Bowl and signature Million Dollar Bacon. For every kid’s meal served, First Watch proudly donates a portion to organizations and causes making a positive impact to our communities – raising approximately $2.0 million to date. A recipient of many “Best Breakfast” and “Best Brunch” awards, First Watch was voted #1 Best Breakfast by Newsweek’s Readers’ Choice Awards 2025, and also named 2025 and 2024’s #1 Most Loved Workplace in America by the Best Practice Institute – an accolade most recently featured in The Wall Street Journal – after appearing on the list in 2022 and 2023, as well. With a commitment to quality, hospitality and community, First Watch is redefining Daytime Dining across more than 630 First Watch restaurants in 32 states. For more information, visitwww.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.

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Risk & Insurance Analyst

Location: Bradenton

Overview

The Risk & Insurance Analyst is responsible for supporting the insurance programs and risk mitigation strategies. This role works on insurance coverage, renewals, and risk assessments across all restaurant and corporate operations. Responsibilities include compiling and tracking financial risk exposures, evaluating and tracking overall cost of insurance and will administer the Risk Management Information System (Origami). The position will also develop and implement analytical tools/reports to most effectively communicate internally and field leadership teams. This position will be responsible for data collection/analysis and tracking of all relevant risk management metrics. The ideal candidate is analytical, collaborative, and passionate about creating a safe and resilient environment for our teams and customers.

 


Responsibilities

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 all aspects of corporate insurance programs
  • Oversee all data inputs for RMIS system to ensure accuracy and optimal process management
  • Coding/mapping third party claims administrator (TPA) data in Origami (system administration)
  • Actuary data pulls – submission of loss runs
  • Produce monthly trend reports for operations/others
  • Track information for statement of values (property insurance)
  • Code vendor invoices for payment and process insurance recoveries
  • Support underwriter meetings
  • Compile data for insurance renewal submissions
  • First level back up for customer service support positions
  • Certificate of insurance handlings
  • Uploading insurance policies into Origami
  • Respond to Service Channel insurance compliance inquires
  • Coordinate annual insurance renewals, policy reviews, and broker relationships
  • Monitor claim trends and develop strategies to reduce frequency and severity
  • Support internal teams with claim-related inquiries and documentation
  • Conduct risk assessments
  • Analyze loss data and prepare reports for leadership to inform strategic decisions
  • Maintain accurate records of policies, claims, certificates of insurance, and endorsements

 


Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in risk management, Business Administration- Accounting/Finance, or related field
  • 2+ years of experience in insurance and risk management, preferably in hospitality or retail
  • 2 + years of administering RMIS systems is preferred
  • Excellent analytical, organizational, and communication skills
  • ARM, CPCU, AIC or other relevant certifications preferred

 


Who We Are

First Watch is the leading Daytime Dining concept serving made-to-order breakfast, brunch and lunch using the freshest ingredients available. Guided by its “Follow the Sun” culinary philosophy, First Watch’s chef-driven menu rotates multiple times per year to feature the highest-quality flavors at their peak, offering elevated executions of classic favorites, fresh juices like the Kale Tonic, and fan favorites such as the Lemon Ricotta Pancakes, Quinoa Power Bowl and signature Million Dollar Bacon. For every kid’s meal served, First Watch proudly donates a portion to organizations and causes making a positive impact to our communities – raising approximately $2.0 million to date. A recipient of many “Best Breakfast” and “Best Brunch” awards, First Watch was voted #1 Best Breakfast by Newsweek’s Readers’ Choice Awards 2025, and also named 2025 and 2024’s #1 Most Loved Workplace in America by the Best Practice Institute – an accolade most recently featured in The Wall Street Journal – after appearing on the list in 2022 and 2023, as well. With a commitment to quality, hospitality and community, First Watch is redefining Daytime Dining across more than 630 First Watch restaurants in 32 states. For more information, visitwww.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.

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Director of Operations

Location: Myrtle Beach

Overview

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).

 


Responsibilities

  • 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

 


Qualifications

  • 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

 


Who We Are

First Watch is the leading Daytime Dining concept serving made-to-order breakfast, brunch and lunch using the freshest ingredients available. Guided by its “Follow the Sun” culinary philosophy, First Watch’s chef-driven menu rotates multiple times per year to feature the highest-quality flavors at their peak, offering elevated executions of classic favorites, fresh juices like the Kale Tonic, and fan favorites such as the Lemon Ricotta Pancakes, Quinoa Power Bowl and signature Million Dollar Bacon. For every kid’s meal served, First Watch proudly donates a portion to organizations and causes making a positive impact to our communities – raising approximately $2.0 million to date. A recipient of many “Best Breakfast” and “Best Brunch” awards, First Watch was voted #1 Best Breakfast by Newsweek’s Readers’ Choice Awards 2025, and also named 2025 and 2024’s #1 Most Loved Workplace in America by the Best Practice Institute – an accolade most recently featured in The Wall Street Journal – after appearing on the list in 2022 and 2023, as well. With a commitment to quality, hospitality and community, First Watch is redefining Daytime Dining across more than 630 First Watch restaurants in 32 states. For more information, visitwww.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.

Apply now for Director of Operations, opens in a new window

Supply Chain Manager

Location: Bradenton

Overview

The Supply Chain Manager will be responsible for leading distribution and supplier management activities (transactional and executional functions) as well as the implementation of the procurement strategy across multiple categories of spend. This role includes, but is not limited to: setting inventory levels with suppliers and distributors, reviewing proposals, supplier selection and management, invoice review and approval, project management/coordination, KPI analysis, new product development and sourcing. This is a hands-on role with limited supervision requiring initiative and drive. The Supply Chain Manager must possess broad, relevant business knowledge with and be able to ruthlessly prioritize competing initiatives. This individual must be able to communicate effectively and appropriately across and at all levels of the company as required.

 


Responsibilities

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

  • Lead execution on strategies related to sourcing not limited to food, goods and services.
  • Proactively introduce innovative solutions to improve supply chain with regard to cost of ownership & quality.
  • Develop supply chain functional vision and objectives for their area of responsibility.
  • Build, lead and support strategic relationships with suppliers.
  • Identify secondary sources for categories to mitigate business risk.
  • Lead category management process through negotiation and contract execution,
  • Manage distributors with KPI development.
  • Lead testing, tracking and implementation process for R&D and Operations on projects.
  • Utilize a team buying strategy across multiple spend areas to deliver quality in all areas of service and costs.
  • Analyze financial, industry and internal forecasts for products and materials and anticipates changes in cost, availability, and suitability of products.
  • Manage operational, distributors and supplier-related issues, as well as other various requests as required (sourcing, product information, etc.).
  • Provide various reporting and analytics as required (i.e. inventory, spend profile, etc.).
  • Administer changes as required to maintain accurate manufacturer/supplier records, but not limited to, expediting the proper paperwork and track contract/price compliance.
  • Network effectively within the industry; study industry publications, trade journals and market information to keep current on relevant changes in procurement.
  • Collaborate with Operations, R&D, Training team and suppliers

 


Qualifications

  • Four (4) college degree or equivalent 10 years of industry experience in Foodservice and Supply Chain preferred
  • Highly proficient in MS Word, Excel, Outlook and PowerPoint
  • Working knowledge of distribution, food categories, produce and indirects
  • Recognizes patterns in data, information and/or events; draws logical conclusions to develop recommendations
  • Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to effectively multi-task in a fast-paced environment
  • Proven experience working with cross-functional teams

 


Who We Are

First Watch is the leading Daytime Dining concept serving made-to-order breakfast, brunch and lunch using the freshest ingredients available. Guided by its “Follow the Sun” culinary philosophy, First Watch’s chef-driven menu rotates multiple times per year to feature the highest-quality flavors at their peak, offering elevated executions of classic favorites, fresh juices like the Kale Tonic, and fan favorites such as the Lemon Ricotta Pancakes, Quinoa Power Bowl and signature Million Dollar Bacon. For every kid’s meal served, First Watch proudly donates a portion to organizations and causes making a positive impact to our communities – raising approximately $2.0 million to date. A recipient of many “Best Breakfast” and “Best Brunch” awards, First Watch was voted #1 Best Breakfast by Newsweek’s Readers’ Choice Awards 2025, and also named 2025 and 2024’s #1 Most Loved Workplace in America by the Best Practice Institute – an accolade most recently featured in The Wall Street Journal – after appearing on the list in 2022 and 2023, as well. With a commitment to quality, hospitality and community, First Watch is redefining Daytime Dining across more than 630 First Watch restaurants in 32 states. For more information, visitwww.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.

Apply now for Supply Chain Manager, opens in a new window

Director of Operations

Location: Augusta

Overview

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).

 


Responsibilities

  • 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

 


Qualifications

  • 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

 


Who We Are

First Watch is the leading Daytime Dining concept serving made-to-order breakfast, brunch and lunch using the freshest ingredients available. Guided by its “Follow the Sun” culinary philosophy, First Watch’s chef-driven menu rotates multiple times per year to feature the highest-quality flavors at their peak, offering elevated executions of classic favorites, fresh juices like the Kale Tonic, and fan favorites such as the Lemon Ricotta Pancakes, Quinoa Power Bowl and signature Million Dollar Bacon. For every kid’s meal served, First Watch proudly donates a portion to organizations and causes making a positive impact to our communities – raising approximately $2.0 million to date. A recipient of many “Best Breakfast” and “Best Brunch” awards, First Watch was voted #1 Best Breakfast by Newsweek’s Readers’ Choice Awards 2025, and also named 2025 and 2024’s #1 Most Loved Workplace in America by the Best Practice Institute – an accolade most recently featured in The Wall Street Journal – after appearing on the list in 2022 and 2023, as well. With a commitment to quality, hospitality and community, First Watch is redefining Daytime Dining across more than 630 First Watch restaurants in 32 states. For more information, visitwww.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.

Apply now for Director of Operations, opens in a new window

Director of Operations

Location: Germantown

Overview

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).

 


Responsibilities

  • 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

 


Qualifications

  • 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

 


Who We Are

First Watch is the leading Daytime Dining concept serving made-to-order breakfast, brunch and lunch using the freshest ingredients available. Guided by its “Follow the Sun” culinary philosophy, First Watch’s chef-driven menu rotates multiple times per year to feature the highest-quality flavors at their peak, offering elevated executions of classic favorites, fresh juices like the Kale Tonic, and fan favorites such as the Lemon Ricotta Pancakes, Quinoa Power Bowl and signature Million Dollar Bacon. For every kid’s meal served, First Watch proudly donates a portion to organizations and causes making a positive impact to our communities – raising approximately $2.0 million to date. A recipient of many “Best Breakfast” and “Best Brunch” awards, First Watch was voted #1 Best Breakfast by Newsweek’s Readers’ Choice Awards 2025, and also named 2025 and 2024’s #1 Most Loved Workplace in America by the Best Practice Institute – an accolade most recently featured in The Wall Street Journal – after appearing on the list in 2022 and 2023, as well. With a commitment to quality, hospitality and community, First Watch is redefining Daytime Dining across more than 630 First Watch restaurants in 32 states. For more information, visitwww.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.

Apply now for Director of Operations, opens in a new window

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