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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 Training

Location: Bradenton

Overview

The Director of Training is responsible for developing and executing comprehensive training programs that align with company brand standards and operational goals. This role will play a crucial role in ensuring that our staff receives the necessary skills, knowledge, and resources to excel in their roles and deliver exceptional customer experiences. The Director of Training maintains a deep understanding of restaurant operations, exceptional leadership skills and a commitment to fostering our You First culture. 

 


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.

 

Training Program Development:

  • Oversee the design, implementation, and continual refinement of training programs for all restaurant positions, including front-of-house, back-of-house staff and leadership positions
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure training programs align with the company’s goals, brand standards, and operational procedures
  • Lead the creation of training materials, manuals, modules, and resources that are innovative, engaging, effective, and in compliance with industry standards

Leadership and Team Development:

  • Lead and develop a team of trainers and content developers, providing guidance and support in their professional growth
  • Foster a positive training culture that emphasizes continuous improvement and excellence
  • Collaborate with HR to identify and address performance issues and recommend appropriate training interventions

Training Delivery:

  • Lead and conduct training sessions, both in-person and through digital platforms, for restaurant employees, managers and multi-unit operators at various locations
  • Assess training needs and tailor programs to address specific skill gaps.
  • Monitor the progress of trainees, provide feedback, and adapt training methods as needed

Continuous Learning and Development:

  • Establish a culture of continuous learning by providing ongoing training opportunities, workshops, and resources for employees at all levels
  • Identify and address skills gaps through targeted training initiatives and personalized development plans

Training Evaluation and Effectiveness:

  • Implement assessment tools and feedback mechanisms to measure the effectiveness of training programs
  • Analyze training data to identify areas for improvement and adjust programs accordingly

Compliance and Regulatory Training:

  • Ensure that all training programs meet industry-specific compliance requirements and adhere to relevant regulations and that materials remain up-to-date

 


Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field (Hospitality Management, Education, Training & Development). Master’s degree or relevant certifications are a plus
  • Extensive experience in restaurant operations and management
  • Proven track record in designing and implementing effective training programs, preferably in the restaurant or hospitality industry
  • Excellent communication and presentation abilities, with a focus on creating engaging and interactive training experiences
  • Proficiency in learning management systems (LMS) and other training-related technology

 


Who We Are

First Watch is an award-winning 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 includes elevated executions of classic favorites along with First Watch specialties such as the Quinoa Power Bowl®, Farm Stand Breakfast Tacos, Avocado Toast, Chickichanga, Morning Meditation (juiced in-house daily), Spiked Lavender Lemonade and its signature Million Dollar Bacon. In 2023, First Watch was named the top restaurant brand in Yelp’s inaugural list of the 50 most loved brands in the U.S. In 2023 and 2022, First Watch was named a Top 100 Most Loved Workplace® in Newsweek by the Best Practice Institute. In 2022, First Watch was awarded a sought-after MenuMasters honor by Nation’s Restaurant News for its seasonal Braised Short Rib Omelet and recognized with ADP’s coveted Culture at Work Award. First Watch operates more than 530 First Watch restaurants in 29 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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Regional VP

Location: Atlanta

Overview

The Regional Vice President (RVP) is responsible for supporting the mission, vision and values of First Watch through all that s/he does in their role every day. The primary purpose is to develop Directors of Operations, General Managers and restaurant teams, build on the Company's You First culture and create memorable experiences for each and every customer. The RVP is ultimately responsible for the success of all First Watch operations within their span of control. The RVP will typically have 3-5 direct reports and is responsible for a span of control of 250 – 500 employees. The RVP will be responsible for revenue operations in excess of ten to twenty five million dollars. This role will provide operational leadership within the assigned region of First Watch.

 


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.

  • Enhances organizational excellence by establishing operational benchmarks, timelines, and resources needed to achieve strategic goals
  • Proactively drives improvements and sets standards for accountability and measurements of success
  • Communicates effectively with management, hourly employees, and customers, providing positive feedback and promoting a positive / You First culture.
  • Fosters diverse and inclusive teams and working environments
  • Ensures the maintenance of a safe and harassment free workplace in all restaurants
  • Trains, coaches and develops Directors of Operations, General Managers and Operations Managers, through timely performance, observation feedback and evaluations
  • Safeguards the Company assets, including funds and collateral, equipment, and the facilities/building
  • Ensures cost effective and customer oriented openings of new restaurants within the area; and ensures a profitable performance as soon as possible in newly opened restaurants
  • Partners with Talent Acquisition team to ensure appropriate managerial staffing levels are maintained at the restaurants, to include growth and anticipated/unanticipated turnover, effectively plans manpower needs, identifies and develops the next DO and General Manager
  • Takes quick and responsible action in investigating and solving problems and uses reason when dealing with individual or staff performance based issues to include personality conflicts
  • Takes a lead role in administering an appropriate level of disciplinary action through the use of Company policies and procedures
  • Supports the senior leadership team by making consistent and progressive steps toward organizational sustainability; effectively communicating work plans and priorities derived from the organization's strategic plan coordinating accountabilities, objectives, and relevant budgets
  • Performs monthly inspections and administrative audits on each restaurant
  • Ensures smooth implementation of company initiatives, menu revisions, and changes to current programs
  • Acts as the administrative liaison between restaurants and the Home Office. Regularly channels communication up through the Vice President of Operations
  • Acts as a brand ambassador to promote First Watch outside the restaurant
  • Ensures compliance with all Federal, local, and state laws

 


Qualifications

  • High School Diploma required
  • Bachelors of Arts – concentration in food & beverage, business, marketing or management is preferred
  • A minimum five to ten years’ experience in a service-oriented, hospitality industry such as hotel, resort, restaurant, retail, entertainment venue preferred
  • A track record of leadership effectiveness, strong business acumen, and a demonstrated history of achieving results through collaboration, strong influence, and communication
  • Hands-on leadership style and ability to prioritize and deliver results in a fast-moving company
  • Ability to work with a level of ambiguity and still make decisions when not all variables are known
  • Strong project management, strategic communications and/or change management skills
  • Management skills in employee relations, recruiting and retention and employee recognition
  • Collaborative problem-solving, people, and time management skills
  • Solid level of competency in computer skills (Microsoft Office) is required
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to present ideas and suggestions clearly and effectively
  • Highly organized, detail-oriented self-starter, and the ability to exercise discretion and independent judgement without heavy oversight
  • Must hold a valid driver’s license and be able to travel as required for company business
  • Flexible and willing to work a varied schedule that could include nights, weekends and holidays as dictated by the needs of the business
  • Passion for providing excellent service and quality

 


Who We Are

First Watch is an award-winning 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 includes elevated executions of classic favorites along with First Watch specialties such as the Quinoa Power Bowl®, Farm Stand Breakfast Tacos, Avocado Toast, Chickichanga, Morning Meditation (juiced in-house daily), Spiked Lavender Lemonade and its signature Million Dollar Bacon. In 2023, First Watch was named the top restaurant brand in Yelp’s inaugural list of the 50 most loved brands in the U.S. In 2023 and 2022, First Watch was named a Top 100 Most Loved Workplace® in Newsweek by the Best Practice Institute. In 2022, First Watch was awarded a sought-after MenuMasters honor by Nation’s Restaurant News for its seasonal Braised Short Rib Omelet and recognized with ADP’s coveted Culture at Work Award. First Watch operates more than 530 First Watch restaurants in 29 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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Accounting Manager

Location: Bradenton

Overview

The Accounting Manager is a key financial professional responsible for ensuring compliance with accounting standards, implementing accounting policies, and providing technical support on accounting issues to staff. This role involves working closely with cross-functional teams, auditors and accounting team members to maintain accurate and timely financial reporting and internal controls.

 


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.

 

Technical Accounting Expertise

  • Stay abreast of evolving accounting standards (e.g., GAAP) and assess their impact on the organization
  • Research, interpret, and implement new accounting pronouncements or changes in regulations (SEC)
  • Provide guidance on accounting issues, collaborate with other departments to address challenges and document memos on technical / complex accounting issues / transactions (may include debt transactions, impairment analysis, cash flow hedge accounting, etc.)
  • Train and support accounting staff on GAAP accounting issues
  • Prepare/review journal entries, internal schedules, account reconciliations, accounting procedures, process memos

Financial Reporting

  • Preparation/review of schedules supporting the financial statements in compliance with applicable accounting standards
  • Preparation/review of financial statement disclosures to ensure compliance with US GAAP

Policy Development and Implementation

  • Develop and implement accounting policies
  • Work with various departments to communicate and educate teams on accounting policies and procedures
  • Ensure staff on the accounting team are aware of accounting policy updates for compliance
  • Monitor and assess the effectiveness of existing policies and recommend updates as needed

Internal Controls

  • Establish and maintain a strong system of internal controls
  • Collaborate with internal audit to identify and address control deficiencies
  • Implement best practices to enhance the effectiveness of internal controls

Collaboration and Communication

  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including finance, treasury, operations, purchasing, etc. to address accounting-related matters
  • Communicate complex accounting issues in a clear and concise manner
  • Work closely with, train and develop accounting team members

Advisory Role

  • Provide guidance on transactions, mergers and acquisitions, and other business initiatives to ensure compliance with accounting standards
  • Evaluate the financial impact of proposed transactions and provide recommendations

 


Qualifications

  • Strong knowledge of GAAP
  • Bachelor's degree in Accounting
  • CPA preferred
  • Public company experience preferred
  • Extensive experience (typically 5-7 years) in accounting roles, with demonstrated progression
  • Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills
  • Effective communication and interpersonal skills
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a dynamic environment
  • Experience with ERP systems and proficiency in Microsoft Excel

 


Who We Are

First Watch is an award-winning 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 includes elevated executions of classic favorites along with First Watch specialties such as the Quinoa Power Bowl®, Farm Stand Breakfast Tacos, Avocado Toast, Chickichanga, Morning Meditation (juiced in-house daily), Spiked Lavender Lemonade and its signature Million Dollar Bacon. In 2023, First Watch was named the top restaurant brand in Yelp’s inaugural list of the 50 most loved brands in the U.S. In 2023 and 2022, First Watch was named a Top 100 Most Loved Workplace® in Newsweek by the Best Practice Institute. In 2022, First Watch was awarded a sought-after MenuMasters honor by Nation’s Restaurant News for its seasonal Braised Short Rib Omelet and recognized with ADP’s coveted Culture at Work Award. First Watch operates more than 530 First Watch restaurants in 29 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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Training Program Administrator

Location: Bradenton

Overview

The Training Program Administrator will support a variety of operational and administrative functions as it relates to the training and development of all First Watch employees. They will act in support of the mission, vision, and values of First Watch Restaurants through all that they do in their role every day. This position will work towards accomplishing stated goals and objectives to achieve desired results while focusing on the long-term profitability of the company.

 


Responsibilities

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

  • Provides general support to the field, owns thetraining@firstwatch.cominbox and responds to training questions according to our established SOPs
  • Takes notes and shares communication during / after department meetings
  • Maintains the tracking and completion of large-scale projects and departmental goals
  • Monitors compliance completions and reporting in the Learning Management System (Schoox)
  • Partners with Home Office Operations, Culinary, and Training partners to ensure accuracy of related LMS content, as well as shape new features and functionality of the LMS and other learning tools
  • Learns & utilizes “the voice” of First Watch in training materials, such as training guides, videos, policy updates and general operational information
  • Makes suggestions to improve orientation and on-boarding practices as it relates to the LMS or ADP
  • Schedules and facilitates Onboarding / Orientation Sessions and in-restaurant training for Home Office employees
  • Maintains all logistics for the national recognition program, including Legacy Pin Program and other recognition communications
  • Communicates compliance report deficiencies with Ops Leadership in the field
  • Manages the upkeep of training documents located in SharePoint / InfoHub
  • Assists with logistics planning of the Leadership Conference, registration, travel, communication, etc.
  • Works shoulder-to-shoulder with the training team to review and update training content and deploy traning materials (as needed) to existing restaurants
  • Monitors the communication and training process for new Managers-in-Training
  • Coordinates Certified General Manager (CGM) / Certified Training Restaurant communication, including announcements, bonus payouts and evaluation surveys completed by Managers-in-Training
  • Reconciles department expenditures – codes expenses to correct departments and/or restaurants
  • Communicates training feedback and handles complaints in a timely and efficient manner

 


Qualifications

  • Minimum one to three years of experience in a service-oriented, hospitality industry such as hotel, resort, restaurant, retail, entertainment venue preferred
  • First Watch Management experience preferred but not required
  • Strong computer skills (Outlook, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.)
  • A passion for learning and the ongoing development of others
  • Able to understand needed knowledge and skills of every position in the restaurant
  • Team player with excellent interpersonal/communication skills – up, down, and across the organization
  • Has demonstrated credibility (garners respect, acts with integrity and keeps commitments), is proactive (has a point of view and takes initiative) and is a good partner (builds relationships and delivers results)

 


Who We Are

First Watch is an award-winning 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 includes elevated executions of classic favorites along with First Watch specialties such as the Quinoa Power Bowl®, Farm Stand Breakfast Tacos, Avocado Toast, Chickichanga, Morning Meditation (juiced in-house daily), Spiked Lavender Lemonade and its signature Million Dollar Bacon. In 2023, First Watch was named the top restaurant brand in Yelp’s inaugural list of the 50 most loved brands in the U.S. In 2023 and 2022, First Watch was named a Top 100 Most Loved Workplace® in Newsweek by the Best Practice Institute. In 2022, First Watch was awarded a sought-after MenuMasters honor by Nation’s Restaurant News for its seasonal Braised Short Rib Omelet and recognized with ADP’s coveted Culture at Work Award. First Watch operates more than 530 First Watch restaurants in 29 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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Regional Talent Director

Location: Bradenton

Overview

The Regional Talent Director will serve as a key business partner and lead the talent management lifecycle in a designated operations division, focused on attracting and hiring a diverse staff of exceptional people. The Regional Talent Director will be a strategic business partner to the VP and RVPs in a division, providing HR expertise to hire the best talent, support a diverse, inclusive work environment and deliver a robust talent pipeline to drive a high-growth, high-performing business model. This is a remote role supporting the South division, and the ideal candidate will reside in Tampa, Jacksonville, or Atlanta.

 


Responsibilities

The essential functions in this job description are not all-inclusive of this position’s duties and responsibilities.  The percent of time spent on each of the responsibilities below will vary based on the talent strengths and opportunities within each respective division.

 

Talent Acquisition

  • Partner with Operation leaders to meet the company’s high-growth staffing goals and enable a high-performing, inclusive culture. Analyze, develop, and implement creative talent acquisition strategies.
  • Lead and facilitate the management interview and selection process with applicants and RVPs/DOs to ensure proactive staffing levels are met through on-time MIT talent acquisition leveraging a balance of internal and external candidates.
  • Conduct weekly calls with RVPs and Directors within respective division to assess current recruiting needs; provide monthly summary recap to VP.
  • Monitor, maintain and assess management rosters with Operations Leadership for succession planning to identify current & future talent acquisition opportunities.
  • Accurately execute all hiring system responsibilities, resume screening, applicant tracking, background checks, candidate communications and new hire administration. Ensures process compliance to minimize company risk and liability.
  • Manage company career sites and Internet job boards, engage in relevant social media / networking strategies to promote an employer-of-choice branding campaign, recruiting agency management, actively promote manager referral programs and utilize other effective recruiting strategies.
  • Establish and advance positive First Watch image with students/faculty at targeted universities with a hospitality program within Division, attend career fairs, conduct live and virtual classroom presentations and live/video student interviews.
  • Develop and implement diversity recruiting strategies to source diverse talent.
  • Develop strong relationships with and deliver professional talent acquisition services to operations clients.
  • Deliver a positive applicant/candidate experience to promote First Watch/You First brand image & reputation.
  • Convey subject matter knowledge on TA related topics to market leaders (e.g. compensation/benefits, relocation etc.).

 

Talent Identification and Retention

  • Serve as a strategic partner to the VP, RVPs and DOs, focused on talent planning.
  • Conduct monthly calls with all Directors and RVPs within respective division to assess current talent. (development needs, flight risks, etc.); provide monthly summary recap to VP.
  • Aid in identifying talent gaps and offering effective solutions that support business objectives (partnering with Training resources). Recommend training enhancements to continuously improve materials and delivery.
  • Support the Talent Review process within respective division; ensure talent assessments within Division are completed in a thorough and timely manner and utilize information to drive targeted training/development and succession planning support.
  • Ensure clear, thoughtful and current succession planning is in place to keep division pipeline strong.
  • Analyze and understand the turnover trends within a division and partner with appropriate Operations leadership to identify the root cause and address retention issues.
  • Assist with the selection and development of NRO trainers in respective division to ensure a talented, diverse pool of trainers is available to support varying NRO needs.
  • Support and monitor the internal promotion process within a division.
  • Maintain communication with new MITs through training to ensure expectations are being met.
  • Provide additional HR support as needed with key market activity.

 


Qualifications

  • Bachelor's Degree in Business, Education, Human Resources or a related field required.
  • Minimum of 5 years of experience in a Recruiting or HRBP role.
  • Multi-unit restaurant, retail or hospitality experience preferred.
  • Deep knowledge of recruiting practices, principles and methods, including interviewing and assessment skills.
  • Talent advisor behaviors/competencies, supported by a solid understanding of the business, external / internal labor market, competitive landscape, and data analytics.
  • Business partner mindset with the experience, credibility and confidence necessary to work with and influence market leaders, HR colleagues, and employees at all levels to deliver results. 

 


Who We Are

First Watch is an award-winning 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 includes elevated executions of classic favorites along with First Watch specialties such as the Quinoa Power Bowl®, Farm Stand Breakfast Tacos, Avocado Toast, Chickichanga, Morning Meditation (juiced in-house daily), Spiked Lavender Lemonade and its signature Million Dollar Bacon. In 2023, First Watch was named the top restaurant brand in Yelp’s inaugural list of the 50 most loved brands in the U.S. In 2023 and 2022, First Watch was named a Top 100 Most Loved Workplace® in Newsweek by the Best Practice Institute. In 2022, First Watch was awarded a sought-after MenuMasters honor by Nation’s Restaurant News for its seasonal Braised Short Rib Omelet and recognized with ADP’s coveted Culture at Work Award. First Watch operates more than 530 First Watch restaurants in 29 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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Supply Chain Analyst

Location: Bradenton

Overview

The Supply Chain Analyst will be responsible for assembling data, analyzing performance, identifying problems, and developing recommendations which support operations and multiple internal business lines while ensuring a high rate of project communication and completion. This position uses analytical and quantitative methods to understand, predict, improve, forecast and/or support chain operations and distribution processes.Must be a self-starter, detail oriented, analytically minded, use critical thinking and be able to support and lead multiple projects. Be able, motivated, and energized to support a global business operating in multiple time-zones and work cross-functionally and cross-culturally with internal and external clients/partners.

 


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.

  • Provide product information JIT for Procure To Pay and Inventory programs
  • Create, improve, and maintain reporting and analytical capabilities to support decision-making using tools like Excel and business analysis tools like Power BI or Tableau
  • Use current visualization tools for process mapping and problem-solving
  • Analyze and optimize service trends: identify patterns of missed opportunities, measure on-going project success and be able to work on continuous improvement in all areas of the supply chain
  • Support finished goods optimization modeling in distribution centers (SKU level, and by distribution location)
  • Identify savings and value opportunities through data analysis and be able to work with internal and external partners
  • Collect, analyze and recommend action to support NRO’s, LTO’s and other strategic projects.
  • Provide supply chain analysis to first and last mile transportation, distribution and ancillary service costs building an end-to-end cost picture
  • Work with Director of Supply Chain to build various reporting and analytics as required (inventory, spend profile, etc)
  • Report out to business leadership - KPI’s, project updates, and business status as needed with consistent accuracy and a sense of urgency
  • Collaborate within the company including Operations, Finance, Accounting, I.T. and suppliers

 


Qualifications

  • Minimum of 3 years of demonstrated success in Supply Chain or Procurement experience specifically in the areas forecasting, inventory management and/or procurement
  • Four (4) year college degree or equivalent 5 years of industry experience in Foodservice and Supply Chain preferred

Who We Are

First Watch is an award-winning 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 includes elevated executions of classic favorites along with First Watch specialties such as the Quinoa Power Bowl®, Farm Stand Breakfast Tacos, Avocado Toast, Chickichanga, Morning Meditation (juiced in-house daily), Spiked Lavender Lemonade and its signature Million Dollar Bacon. In 2023, First Watch was named the top restaurant brand in Yelp’s inaugural list of the 50 most loved brands in the U.S. In 2023 and 2022, First Watch was named a Top 100 Most Loved Workplace® in Newsweek by the Best Practice Institute. In 2022, First Watch was awarded a sought-after MenuMasters honor by Nation’s Restaurant News for its seasonal Braised Short Rib Omelet and recognized with ADP’s coveted Culture at Work Award. First Watch operates more than 530 First Watch restaurants in 29 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 Analyst, opens in a new window

Payroll Specialist

Location: Bradenton

Overview

The Payroll Specialist is responsible for supporting accurate and timely processing of payroll for First Watch employees as well as the people analytics with the oversight of the Payroll Supervisor. The position requires a basic understanding of payroll systems to carry out the principles and standards that support the Company’s business and human resources related responsibilities.

 


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 in the preparation of the biweekly payroll, reviews and processes employee payroll changes
  • Update payroll records and assist the team in preparing payroll for timely processing
  • Answer inquiries directed to the payroll inbox and respond in a professional and timely manner
  • Run audit reports for the field and reach out to managers to correct data flowing to payroll
  • Maintain pay cards for all company restaurants
  • Send garnishment orders to third party vendors for processing
  • Effectively communicate with all levels to establish and maintain positive working relationships
  • Investigate and issue manual check requests
  • Coordinate questions from the field regarding daily tip out procedures
  • Field PTO requests from the field as it relates to their balances
  • Answer questions about payroll matters which require limited policy interpretation
  • Complete forms requiring payroll data
  • Make recommendations for improvements to payroll procedures
  • Assist with year-end reporting, W-2 processing, and annual pay summaries
  • Support the team with special payroll-related projects as needed, including audits

 


Qualifications

  • The position requires a high school diploma and 2+ years of payroll experience with a medium-large sized organization. Degree in a related and supporting field of study preferred
  • Payroll experience in a multi-unit / multi-state restaurant or retail environment strongly preferred
  • Proficient in using HRIS software such as ADP (preferred), UKG or Workday.
  • Knowledge of payroll processes and regulations, including garnishments, payroll conversions, tax and withholding
  • Strong working knowledge of MS 365, (Excel, Word & Outlook), web-based applications & databases
  • Possess and maintain a high degree of confidentiality and professionalism
  • Customer service orientation toward service and building relationships

 


Who We Are

First Watch is an award-winning 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 includes elevated executions of classic favorites along with First Watch specialties such as the Quinoa Power Bowl®, Farm Stand Breakfast Tacos, Avocado Toast, Chickichanga, Morning Meditation (juiced in-house daily), Spiked Lavender Lemonade and its signature Million Dollar Bacon. In 2023, First Watch was named the top restaurant brand in Yelp’s inaugural list of the 50 most loved brands in the U.S. In 2023 and 2022, First Watch was named a Top 100 Most Loved Workplace® in Newsweek by the Best Practice Institute. In 2022, First Watch was awarded a sought-after MenuMasters honor by Nation’s Restaurant News for its seasonal Braised Short Rib Omelet and recognized with ADP’s coveted Culture at Work Award. First Watch operates more than 530 First Watch restaurants in 29 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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Facilities Manager - Southeast

Location: Bradenton

Overview

The Facilities Manager oversees the maintenance of the building and grounds of approximately 100 restaurant locations, assisting the restaurant management team in the oversight, purchasing and upkeep of equipment and supplies. The Facilities Manager works with the operations teams to make sure the building and grounds are maintained, which includes determining and scheduling regular maintenance, repairs and renovation projects. This position must oversee scheduled work as well as negotiate with outside vendors for supplies, repairs and other measures. Area of responsibility: North Florida, Georgia, Tennessee and Carolinas.

 


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.

  • Oversee building projects, maintenance and repair of all restaurant systems, assets and site improvements, including building, parking areas, HVAC, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, utilities and infrastructure systems
  • Implement and monitor proactive preventative maintenance programs for each facility. Monitor improvements to energy efficiency, HVAC, life safety, equipment, grease traps, landscaping, etc.
  • Schedule vendors to perform work in designated restaurants and provide onsite oversight as needed
  • Continually source and re-qualify suppliers. Perform routine assessment of vendor performance, pricing, on-time delivery, specifications, quality of product, workmanship, responsiveness, and issue resolution for the restaurants and other company assets.
  • Serve as lead contact for contracts, contact negotiation, and warranty oversight
  • Contribute to the development and management of facility maintenance capital projects and budgets for restaurants and other related assets subject to purchase, maintenance and repair
  • Under the direction of the Facilities Director, execute all capital projects with time and cost expectations.  Audit and approve invoices for scheduled and negotiated work
  • Coordinate with restaurant management regarding all facilities activity in the building
  • Provide guidance to operations on basic upkeep and maintenance tasks, repair/replace decisions as well as vendor contact and oversight and emergency procedures
  • Respond to calls on a 24-7 basis to promptly resolve urgent needs of facilities at existing restaurants
  • Regularly visit sites to evaluate conditions and identify potential repairs and facility maintenance projects
  • Inform supervisor by written status report and identification of issues requiring escalation or assistance
  • Ensure that restaurants meet government regulations and environmental, health and security standards
  • Execute equipment audits and record-taking policies

 


Qualifications

  • Bachelor's Degree from an accredited college or university or minimum of 10 years of experience as a Facilities Director or Facilities Manager
  • A minimum of 3 years of experience in the food service industry, multiunit restaurant experience preferred
  • Requires minimum 4-6 years related work experience in a multi-unit, commercial building environment
  • Experience managing a budget, reviewing P&L  and vendor management
  • Proficient in procurement and asset management software applications

 


Who We Are

First Watch is an award-winning 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 includes elevated executions of classic favorites along with First Watch specialties such as the Quinoa Power Bowl®, Farm Stand Breakfast Tacos, Avocado Toast, Chickichanga, Morning Meditation (juiced in-house daily), Spiked Lavender Lemonade and its signature Million Dollar Bacon. In 2023, First Watch was named the top restaurant brand in Yelp’s inaugural list of the 50 most loved brands in the U.S. In 2023 and 2022, First Watch was named a Top 100 Most Loved Workplace® in Newsweek by the Best Practice Institute. In 2022, First Watch was awarded a sought-after MenuMasters honor by Nation’s Restaurant News for its seasonal Braised Short Rib Omelet and recognized with ADP’s coveted Culture at Work Award. First Watch operates more than 530 First Watch restaurants in 29 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: Smyrna

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 an award-winning 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 includes elevated executions of classic favorites along with First Watch specialties such as the Quinoa Power Bowl®, Farm Stand Breakfast Tacos, Avocado Toast, Chickichanga, Morning Meditation (juiced in-house daily), Spiked Lavender Lemonade and its signature Million Dollar Bacon. In 2023, First Watch was named the top restaurant brand in Yelp’s inaugural list of the 50 most loved brands in the U.S. In 2023 and 2022, First Watch was named a Top 100 Most Loved Workplace® in Newsweek by the Best Practice Institute. In 2022, First Watch was awarded a sought-after MenuMasters honor by Nation’s Restaurant News for its seasonal Braised Short Rib Omelet and recognized with ADP’s coveted Culture at Work Award. First Watch operates more than 530 First Watch restaurants in 29 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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Tax Manager

Location: Bradenton

Overview

The Tax Manager is responsible for managing the implementation of tax policies and procedures in each tax jurisdiction in which the company operates while remaining in compliance with tax laws and accounting policies. This position will have primary responsibility for the managing of all tax related functions, as well as interface with outsourced vendor providing tax compliance services.

 


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. This job is based out of the Sarasota, Florida corporate office.

  • Manage the accurate and timely preparation and filing of federal, state, and local sales and use tax returns as well as all other areas of tax compliance in adherence with applicable tax laws.
  • Work closely with our third-party tax advisors to manage the accounting for corporate income taxes throughout the year, including gathering all appropriate information and performing a detailed review of year-end provisions prepared by third-party tax advisors and in house preparation of quarterly provisions with the third-party tax advisors providing consultation services.
  • Prepare quarterly and review year-end financial statement tax disclosures in accordance with US GAAP (ASC 740) for financial reporting.
  • Lead, manage, and develop Tax staff member.
  • Review reconciliations and analysis prepared by tax staff member.
  • Ensure compliance with appropriate internal controls for income taxes.
  • Develop a comprehensive understanding of the Company’s business and proactively work alongside Director of Tax Accounting and outsourced vendor on tax consequences of proposed business flow changes.
  • Liaison with Management, Director of Tax Accounting, Tax staff, and Accounting staff on any tax issues.
  • Manage all federal, state, and local tax audits (e.g., income tax, sales and use tax).
  • Work collaboratively with other corporate functions (e.g., internal audit, treasury, finance, licensing, legal, payroll).
  • Manage the retention of tax records and other required reports.
  • Maintain current knowledge of tax laws, updates/revisions, and inform Director of Tax Accounting of issues affecting First Watch.

 


Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s Degree (B.S.) in Accounting. Master’s Degree in Taxation preferred
  • CPA preferred
  • Six + years of related experience with at least 3 years working in a national public accounting firm and/or in a public corporation
  • At least 2 years of manager experience
  • Strong experience in ASC 740 and SEC reporting required
  • Solid understanding of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and Tax regulations
  • Expert-level ability with MS Excel
  • Experience working with third party service providers
  • Experience with ERP systems; Great Plains is preferred

 


Who We Are

First Watch is an award-winning 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 includes elevated executions of classic favorites along with First Watch specialties such as the Quinoa Power Bowl®, Farm Stand Breakfast Tacos, Avocado Toast, Chickichanga, Morning Meditation (juiced in-house daily), Spiked Lavender Lemonade and its signature Million Dollar Bacon. In 2023, First Watch was named the top restaurant brand in Yelp’s inaugural list of the 50 most loved brands in the U.S. In 2023 and 2022, First Watch was named a Top 100 Most Loved Workplace® in Newsweek by the Best Practice Institute. In 2022, First Watch was awarded a sought-after MenuMasters honor by Nation’s Restaurant News for its seasonal Braised Short Rib Omelet and recognized with ADP’s coveted Culture at Work Award. First Watch operates more than 530 First Watch restaurants in 29 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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Senior Accountant

Location: Bradenton

Overview

The Senior Accountant will support a variety of accounting functions with a primary focus on  lease accounting, sales, use and property taxes across the organization -- including numerous state and local jurisdictions - and assisting with account reconciliations and month-end close to support the integrity of financial statements in accordance with US GAAP. This position will also provide technical accounting support and assist the team in preparing for the Company’s external audits.

 


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.

  • Knowledge of U.S. GAAP, specifically Leases, ASC 842; ensuring compliance with ASC 842 as new leases and amendments are executed
  • Perform accounting for and manage the timely and accurate filing of, sales & use and property taxes
  • Understand changes in sales tax and property tax legislation
  • Facilitate any sales and property tax audits
  • Support the timely completion of month-end close process and reconciliations in compliance with U.S. GAAP
  • Work effectively and alongside third-party service providers (consultants, auditors)
  • Maintain a strong internal control environment
    Work collaboratively with other Corporate functions (Development, Operations, Finance)
  • Implement and develop solutions to drive efficiencies
  • Lead and support other accounting related projects and functions as assigned
  • Adhere to Company policies and procedures

 


Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s Degree with a concentration in Accounting/Finance and CPA license required; Master’s degree is a plus
  • Minimum 4-7 years of progressive accounting experience,
  • Excellent understanding of GAAP and relevant financial accounting regulations, specifically lease accounting (Leases, ASC 842)
  • Knowledge/exposure to sales and use tax, property tax and income tax
  • Experience within the retail, restaurant, or similar industry that includes multiple locations in various tax jurisdictions
  • Experience with and understanding of SEC rules a plus
  • Experience with external auditors
  • Advanced Microsoft Excel skills required
    Previous experience with Great Plains a plus
  • Public Accounting experience strongly preferred

 


Who We Are

First Watch is an award-winning 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 includes elevated executions of classic favorites along with First Watch specialties such as the Quinoa Power Bowl®, Farm Stand Breakfast Tacos, Avocado Toast, Chickichanga, Morning Meditation (juiced in-house daily), Spiked Lavender Lemonade and its signature Million Dollar Bacon. In 2023, First Watch was named the top restaurant brand in Yelp’s inaugural list of the 50 most loved brands in the U.S. In 2023 and 2022, First Watch was named a Top 100 Most Loved Workplace® in Newsweek by the Best Practice Institute. In 2022, First Watch was awarded a sought-after MenuMasters honor by Nation’s Restaurant News for its seasonal Braised Short Rib Omelet and recognized with ADP’s coveted Culture at Work Award. First Watch operates more than 530 First Watch restaurants in 29 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 Training

Location: Bradenton

Overview

The Director of Training is responsible for developing and executing comprehensive training programs that align with company brand standards and operational goals. This role will play a crucial role in ensuring that our staff receives the necessary skills, knowledge, and resources to excel in their roles and deliver exceptional customer experiences. The Director of Training maintains a deep understanding of restaurant operations, exceptional leadership skills and a commitment to fostering our You First culture. 

 


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.

 

Training Program Development:

  • Oversee the design, implementation, and continual refinement of training programs for all restaurant positions, including front-of-house, back-of-house staff and leadership positions
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure training programs align with the company’s goals, brand standards, and operational procedures
  • Lead the creation of training materials, manuals, modules, and resources that are innovative, engaging, effective, and in compliance with industry standards

Leadership and Team Development:

  • Lead and develop a team of trainers and content developers, providing guidance and support in their professional growth
  • Foster a positive training culture that emphasizes continuous improvement and excellence
  • Collaborate with HR to identify and address performance issues and recommend appropriate training interventions

Training Delivery:

  • Lead and conduct training sessions, both in-person and through digital platforms, for restaurant employees, managers and multi-unit operators at various locations
  • Assess training needs and tailor programs to address specific skill gaps.
  • Monitor the progress of trainees, provide feedback, and adapt training methods as needed

Continuous Learning and Development:

  • Establish a culture of continuous learning by providing ongoing training opportunities, workshops, and resources for employees at all levels
  • Identify and address skills gaps through targeted training initiatives and personalized development plans

Training Evaluation and Effectiveness:

  • Implement assessment tools and feedback mechanisms to measure the effectiveness of training programs
  • Analyze training data to identify areas for improvement and adjust programs accordingly

Compliance and Regulatory Training:

  • Ensure that all training programs meet industry-specific compliance requirements and adhere to relevant regulations and that materials remain up-to-date

 


Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field (Hospitality Management, Education, Training & Development). Master’s degree or relevant certifications are a plus
  • Extensive experience in restaurant operations and management
  • Proven track record in designing and implementing effective training programs, preferably in the restaurant or hospitality industry
  • Excellent communication and presentation abilities, with a focus on creating engaging and interactive training experiences
  • Proficiency in learning management systems (LMS) and other training-related technology

 


Who We Are

First Watch is an award-winning 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 includes elevated executions of classic favorites along with First Watch specialties such as the Quinoa Power Bowl®, Farm Stand Breakfast Tacos, Avocado Toast, Chickichanga, Morning Meditation (juiced in-house daily), Spiked Lavender Lemonade and its signature Million Dollar Bacon. In 2023, First Watch was named the top restaurant brand in Yelp’s inaugural list of the 50 most loved brands in the U.S. In 2023 and 2022, First Watch was named a Top 100 Most Loved Workplace® in Newsweek by the Best Practice Institute. In 2022, First Watch was awarded a sought-after MenuMasters honor by Nation’s Restaurant News for its seasonal Braised Short Rib Omelet and recognized with ADP’s coveted Culture at Work Award. First Watch operates more than 530 First Watch restaurants in 29 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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Regional VP

Location: Atlanta

Overview

The Regional Vice President (RVP) is responsible for supporting the mission, vision and values of First Watch through all that s/he does in their role every day. The primary purpose is to develop Directors of Operations, General Managers and restaurant teams, build on the Company's You First culture and create memorable experiences for each and every customer. The RVP is ultimately responsible for the success of all First Watch operations within their span of control. The RVP will typically have 3-5 direct reports and is responsible for a span of control of 250 – 500 employees. The RVP will be responsible for revenue operations in excess of ten to twenty five million dollars. This role will provide operational leadership within the assigned region of First Watch.

 


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.

  • Enhances organizational excellence by establishing operational benchmarks, timelines, and resources needed to achieve strategic goals
  • Proactively drives improvements and sets standards for accountability and measurements of success
  • Communicates effectively with management, hourly employees, and customers, providing positive feedback and promoting a positive / You First culture.
  • Fosters diverse and inclusive teams and working environments
  • Ensures the maintenance of a safe and harassment free workplace in all restaurants
  • Trains, coaches and develops Directors of Operations, General Managers and Operations Managers, through timely performance, observation feedback and evaluations
  • Safeguards the Company assets, including funds and collateral, equipment, and the facilities/building
  • Ensures cost effective and customer oriented openings of new restaurants within the area; and ensures a profitable performance as soon as possible in newly opened restaurants
  • Partners with Talent Acquisition team to ensure appropriate managerial staffing levels are maintained at the restaurants, to include growth and anticipated/unanticipated turnover, effectively plans manpower needs, identifies and develops the next DO and General Manager
  • Takes quick and responsible action in investigating and solving problems and uses reason when dealing with individual or staff performance based issues to include personality conflicts
  • Takes a lead role in administering an appropriate level of disciplinary action through the use of Company policies and procedures
  • Supports the senior leadership team by making consistent and progressive steps toward organizational sustainability; effectively communicating work plans and priorities derived from the organization's strategic plan coordinating accountabilities, objectives, and relevant budgets
  • Performs monthly inspections and administrative audits on each restaurant
  • Ensures smooth implementation of company initiatives, menu revisions, and changes to current programs
  • Acts as the administrative liaison between restaurants and the Home Office. Regularly channels communication up through the Vice President of Operations
  • Acts as a brand ambassador to promote First Watch outside the restaurant
  • Ensures compliance with all Federal, local, and state laws

 


Qualifications

  • High School Diploma required
  • Bachelors of Arts – concentration in food & beverage, business, marketing or management is preferred
  • A minimum five to ten years’ experience in a service-oriented, hospitality industry such as hotel, resort, restaurant, retail, entertainment venue preferred
  • A track record of leadership effectiveness, strong business acumen, and a demonstrated history of achieving results through collaboration, strong influence, and communication
  • Hands-on leadership style and ability to prioritize and deliver results in a fast-moving company
  • Ability to work with a level of ambiguity and still make decisions when not all variables are known
  • Strong project management, strategic communications and/or change management skills
  • Management skills in employee relations, recruiting and retention and employee recognition
  • Collaborative problem-solving, people, and time management skills
  • Solid level of competency in computer skills (Microsoft Office) is required
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to present ideas and suggestions clearly and effectively
  • Highly organized, detail-oriented self-starter, and the ability to exercise discretion and independent judgement without heavy oversight
  • Must hold a valid driver’s license and be able to travel as required for company business
  • Flexible and willing to work a varied schedule that could include nights, weekends and holidays as dictated by the needs of the business
  • Passion for providing excellent service and quality

 


Who We Are

First Watch is an award-winning 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 includes elevated executions of classic favorites along with First Watch specialties such as the Quinoa Power Bowl®, Farm Stand Breakfast Tacos, Avocado Toast, Chickichanga, Morning Meditation (juiced in-house daily), Spiked Lavender Lemonade and its signature Million Dollar Bacon. In 2023, First Watch was named the top restaurant brand in Yelp’s inaugural list of the 50 most loved brands in the U.S. In 2023 and 2022, First Watch was named a Top 100 Most Loved Workplace® in Newsweek by the Best Practice Institute. In 2022, First Watch was awarded a sought-after MenuMasters honor by Nation’s Restaurant News for its seasonal Braised Short Rib Omelet and recognized with ADP’s coveted Culture at Work Award. First Watch operates more than 530 First Watch restaurants in 29 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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Accounting Manager

Location: Bradenton

Overview

The Accounting Manager is a key financial professional responsible for ensuring compliance with accounting standards, implementing accounting policies, and providing technical support on accounting issues to staff. This role involves working closely with cross-functional teams, auditors and accounting team members to maintain accurate and timely financial reporting and internal controls.

 


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.

 

Technical Accounting Expertise

  • Stay abreast of evolving accounting standards (e.g., GAAP) and assess their impact on the organization
  • Research, interpret, and implement new accounting pronouncements or changes in regulations (SEC)
  • Provide guidance on accounting issues, collaborate with other departments to address challenges and document memos on technical / complex accounting issues / transactions (may include debt transactions, impairment analysis, cash flow hedge accounting, etc.)
  • Train and support accounting staff on GAAP accounting issues
  • Prepare/review journal entries, internal schedules, account reconciliations, accounting procedures, process memos

Financial Reporting

  • Preparation/review of schedules supporting the financial statements in compliance with applicable accounting standards
  • Preparation/review of financial statement disclosures to ensure compliance with US GAAP

Policy Development and Implementation

  • Develop and implement accounting policies
  • Work with various departments to communicate and educate teams on accounting policies and procedures
  • Ensure staff on the accounting team are aware of accounting policy updates for compliance
  • Monitor and assess the effectiveness of existing policies and recommend updates as needed

Internal Controls

  • Establish and maintain a strong system of internal controls
  • Collaborate with internal audit to identify and address control deficiencies
  • Implement best practices to enhance the effectiveness of internal controls

Collaboration and Communication

  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including finance, treasury, operations, purchasing, etc. to address accounting-related matters
  • Communicate complex accounting issues in a clear and concise manner
  • Work closely with, train and develop accounting team members

Advisory Role

  • Provide guidance on transactions, mergers and acquisitions, and other business initiatives to ensure compliance with accounting standards
  • Evaluate the financial impact of proposed transactions and provide recommendations

 


Qualifications

  • Strong knowledge of GAAP
  • Bachelor's degree in Accounting
  • CPA preferred
  • Public company experience preferred
  • Extensive experience (typically 5-7 years) in accounting roles, with demonstrated progression
  • Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills
  • Effective communication and interpersonal skills
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a dynamic environment
  • Experience with ERP systems and proficiency in Microsoft Excel

 


Who We Are

First Watch is an award-winning 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 includes elevated executions of classic favorites along with First Watch specialties such as the Quinoa Power Bowl®, Farm Stand Breakfast Tacos, Avocado Toast, Chickichanga, Morning Meditation (juiced in-house daily), Spiked Lavender Lemonade and its signature Million Dollar Bacon. In 2023, First Watch was named the top restaurant brand in Yelp’s inaugural list of the 50 most loved brands in the U.S. In 2023 and 2022, First Watch was named a Top 100 Most Loved Workplace® in Newsweek by the Best Practice Institute. In 2022, First Watch was awarded a sought-after MenuMasters honor by Nation’s Restaurant News for its seasonal Braised Short Rib Omelet and recognized with ADP’s coveted Culture at Work Award. First Watch operates more than 530 First Watch restaurants in 29 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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Training Program Administrator

Location: Bradenton

Overview

The Training Program Administrator will support a variety of operational and administrative functions as it relates to the training and development of all First Watch employees. They will act in support of the mission, vision, and values of First Watch Restaurants through all that they do in their role every day. This position will work towards accomplishing stated goals and objectives to achieve desired results while focusing on the long-term profitability of the company.

 


Responsibilities

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

  • Provides general support to the field, owns thetraining@firstwatch.cominbox and responds to training questions according to our established SOPs
  • Takes notes and shares communication during / after department meetings
  • Maintains the tracking and completion of large-scale projects and departmental goals
  • Monitors compliance completions and reporting in the Learning Management System (Schoox)
  • Partners with Home Office Operations, Culinary, and Training partners to ensure accuracy of related LMS content, as well as shape new features and functionality of the LMS and other learning tools
  • Learns & utilizes “the voice” of First Watch in training materials, such as training guides, videos, policy updates and general operational information
  • Makes suggestions to improve orientation and on-boarding practices as it relates to the LMS or ADP
  • Schedules and facilitates Onboarding / Orientation Sessions and in-restaurant training for Home Office employees
  • Maintains all logistics for the national recognition program, including Legacy Pin Program and other recognition communications
  • Communicates compliance report deficiencies with Ops Leadership in the field
  • Manages the upkeep of training documents located in SharePoint / InfoHub
  • Assists with logistics planning of the Leadership Conference, registration, travel, communication, etc.
  • Works shoulder-to-shoulder with the training team to review and update training content and deploy traning materials (as needed) to existing restaurants
  • Monitors the communication and training process for new Managers-in-Training
  • Coordinates Certified General Manager (CGM) / Certified Training Restaurant communication, including announcements, bonus payouts and evaluation surveys completed by Managers-in-Training
  • Reconciles department expenditures – codes expenses to correct departments and/or restaurants
  • Communicates training feedback and handles complaints in a timely and efficient manner

 


Qualifications

  • Minimum one to three years of experience in a service-oriented, hospitality industry such as hotel, resort, restaurant, retail, entertainment venue preferred
  • First Watch Management experience preferred but not required
  • Strong computer skills (Outlook, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.)
  • A passion for learning and the ongoing development of others
  • Able to understand needed knowledge and skills of every position in the restaurant
  • Team player with excellent interpersonal/communication skills – up, down, and across the organization
  • Has demonstrated credibility (garners respect, acts with integrity and keeps commitments), is proactive (has a point of view and takes initiative) and is a good partner (builds relationships and delivers results)

 


Who We Are

First Watch is an award-winning 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 includes elevated executions of classic favorites along with First Watch specialties such as the Quinoa Power Bowl®, Farm Stand Breakfast Tacos, Avocado Toast, Chickichanga, Morning Meditation (juiced in-house daily), Spiked Lavender Lemonade and its signature Million Dollar Bacon. In 2023, First Watch was named the top restaurant brand in Yelp’s inaugural list of the 50 most loved brands in the U.S. In 2023 and 2022, First Watch was named a Top 100 Most Loved Workplace® in Newsweek by the Best Practice Institute. In 2022, First Watch was awarded a sought-after MenuMasters honor by Nation’s Restaurant News for its seasonal Braised Short Rib Omelet and recognized with ADP’s coveted Culture at Work Award. First Watch operates more than 530 First Watch restaurants in 29 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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Regional Talent Director

Location: Bradenton

Overview

The Regional Talent Director will serve as a key business partner and lead the talent management lifecycle in a designated operations division, focused on attracting and hiring a diverse staff of exceptional people. The Regional Talent Director will be a strategic business partner to the VP and RVPs in a division, providing HR expertise to hire the best talent, support a diverse, inclusive work environment and deliver a robust talent pipeline to drive a high-growth, high-performing business model. This is a remote role supporting the South division, and the ideal candidate will reside in Tampa, Jacksonville, or Atlanta.

 


Responsibilities

The essential functions in this job description are not all-inclusive of this position’s duties and responsibilities.  The percent of time spent on each of the responsibilities below will vary based on the talent strengths and opportunities within each respective division.

 

Talent Acquisition

  • Partner with Operation leaders to meet the company’s high-growth staffing goals and enable a high-performing, inclusive culture. Analyze, develop, and implement creative talent acquisition strategies.
  • Lead and facilitate the management interview and selection process with applicants and RVPs/DOs to ensure proactive staffing levels are met through on-time MIT talent acquisition leveraging a balance of internal and external candidates.
  • Conduct weekly calls with RVPs and Directors within respective division to assess current recruiting needs; provide monthly summary recap to VP.
  • Monitor, maintain and assess management rosters with Operations Leadership for succession planning to identify current & future talent acquisition opportunities.
  • Accurately execute all hiring system responsibilities, resume screening, applicant tracking, background checks, candidate communications and new hire administration. Ensures process compliance to minimize company risk and liability.
  • Manage company career sites and Internet job boards, engage in relevant social media / networking strategies to promote an employer-of-choice branding campaign, recruiting agency management, actively promote manager referral programs and utilize other effective recruiting strategies.
  • Establish and advance positive First Watch image with students/faculty at targeted universities with a hospitality program within Division, attend career fairs, conduct live and virtual classroom presentations and live/video student interviews.
  • Develop and implement diversity recruiting strategies to source diverse talent.
  • Develop strong relationships with and deliver professional talent acquisition services to operations clients.
  • Deliver a positive applicant/candidate experience to promote First Watch/You First brand image & reputation.
  • Convey subject matter knowledge on TA related topics to market leaders (e.g. compensation/benefits, relocation etc.).

 

Talent Identification and Retention

  • Serve as a strategic partner to the VP, RVPs and DOs, focused on talent planning.
  • Conduct monthly calls with all Directors and RVPs within respective division to assess current talent. (development needs, flight risks, etc.); provide monthly summary recap to VP.
  • Aid in identifying talent gaps and offering effective solutions that support business objectives (partnering with Training resources). Recommend training enhancements to continuously improve materials and delivery.
  • Support the Talent Review process within respective division; ensure talent assessments within Division are completed in a thorough and timely manner and utilize information to drive targeted training/development and succession planning support.
  • Ensure clear, thoughtful and current succession planning is in place to keep division pipeline strong.
  • Analyze and understand the turnover trends within a division and partner with appropriate Operations leadership to identify the root cause and address retention issues.
  • Assist with the selection and development of NRO trainers in respective division to ensure a talented, diverse pool of trainers is available to support varying NRO needs.
  • Support and monitor the internal promotion process within a division.
  • Maintain communication with new MITs through training to ensure expectations are being met.
  • Provide additional HR support as needed with key market activity.

 


Qualifications

  • Bachelor's Degree in Business, Education, Human Resources or a related field required.
  • Minimum of 5 years of experience in a Recruiting or HRBP role.
  • Multi-unit restaurant, retail or hospitality experience preferred.
  • Deep knowledge of recruiting practices, principles and methods, including interviewing and assessment skills.
  • Talent advisor behaviors/competencies, supported by a solid understanding of the business, external / internal labor market, competitive landscape, and data analytics.
  • Business partner mindset with the experience, credibility and confidence necessary to work with and influence market leaders, HR colleagues, and employees at all levels to deliver results. 

 


Who We Are

First Watch is an award-winning 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 includes elevated executions of classic favorites along with First Watch specialties such as the Quinoa Power Bowl®, Farm Stand Breakfast Tacos, Avocado Toast, Chickichanga, Morning Meditation (juiced in-house daily), Spiked Lavender Lemonade and its signature Million Dollar Bacon. In 2023, First Watch was named the top restaurant brand in Yelp’s inaugural list of the 50 most loved brands in the U.S. In 2023 and 2022, First Watch was named a Top 100 Most Loved Workplace® in Newsweek by the Best Practice Institute. In 2022, First Watch was awarded a sought-after MenuMasters honor by Nation’s Restaurant News for its seasonal Braised Short Rib Omelet and recognized with ADP’s coveted Culture at Work Award. First Watch operates more than 530 First Watch restaurants in 29 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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Supply Chain Analyst

Location: Bradenton

Overview

The Supply Chain Analyst will be responsible for assembling data, analyzing performance, identifying problems, and developing recommendations which support operations and multiple internal business lines while ensuring a high rate of project communication and completion. This position uses analytical and quantitative methods to understand, predict, improve, forecast and/or support chain operations and distribution processes.Must be a self-starter, detail oriented, analytically minded, use critical thinking and be able to support and lead multiple projects. Be able, motivated, and energized to support a global business operating in multiple time-zones and work cross-functionally and cross-culturally with internal and external clients/partners.

 


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.

  • Provide product information JIT for Procure To Pay and Inventory programs
  • Create, improve, and maintain reporting and analytical capabilities to support decision-making using tools like Excel and business analysis tools like Power BI or Tableau
  • Use current visualization tools for process mapping and problem-solving
  • Analyze and optimize service trends: identify patterns of missed opportunities, measure on-going project success and be able to work on continuous improvement in all areas of the supply chain
  • Support finished goods optimization modeling in distribution centers (SKU level, and by distribution location)
  • Identify savings and value opportunities through data analysis and be able to work with internal and external partners
  • Collect, analyze and recommend action to support NRO’s, LTO’s and other strategic projects.
  • Provide supply chain analysis to first and last mile transportation, distribution and ancillary service costs building an end-to-end cost picture
  • Work with Director of Supply Chain to build various reporting and analytics as required (inventory, spend profile, etc)
  • Report out to business leadership - KPI’s, project updates, and business status as needed with consistent accuracy and a sense of urgency
  • Collaborate within the company including Operations, Finance, Accounting, I.T. and suppliers

 


Qualifications

  • Minimum of 3 years of demonstrated success in Supply Chain or Procurement experience specifically in the areas forecasting, inventory management and/or procurement
  • Four (4) year college degree or equivalent 5 years of industry experience in Foodservice and Supply Chain preferred

Who We Are

First Watch is an award-winning 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 includes elevated executions of classic favorites along with First Watch specialties such as the Quinoa Power Bowl®, Farm Stand Breakfast Tacos, Avocado Toast, Chickichanga, Morning Meditation (juiced in-house daily), Spiked Lavender Lemonade and its signature Million Dollar Bacon. In 2023, First Watch was named the top restaurant brand in Yelp’s inaugural list of the 50 most loved brands in the U.S. In 2023 and 2022, First Watch was named a Top 100 Most Loved Workplace® in Newsweek by the Best Practice Institute. In 2022, First Watch was awarded a sought-after MenuMasters honor by Nation’s Restaurant News for its seasonal Braised Short Rib Omelet and recognized with ADP’s coveted Culture at Work Award. First Watch operates more than 530 First Watch restaurants in 29 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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Payroll Specialist

Location: Bradenton

Overview

The Payroll Specialist is responsible for supporting accurate and timely processing of payroll for First Watch employees as well as the people analytics with the oversight of the Payroll Supervisor. The position requires a basic understanding of payroll systems to carry out the principles and standards that support the Company’s business and human resources related responsibilities.

 


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 in the preparation of the biweekly payroll, reviews and processes employee payroll changes
  • Update payroll records and assist the team in preparing payroll for timely processing
  • Answer inquiries directed to the payroll inbox and respond in a professional and timely manner
  • Run audit reports for the field and reach out to managers to correct data flowing to payroll
  • Maintain pay cards for all company restaurants
  • Send garnishment orders to third party vendors for processing
  • Effectively communicate with all levels to establish and maintain positive working relationships
  • Investigate and issue manual check requests
  • Coordinate questions from the field regarding daily tip out procedures
  • Field PTO requests from the field as it relates to their balances
  • Answer questions about payroll matters which require limited policy interpretation
  • Complete forms requiring payroll data
  • Make recommendations for improvements to payroll procedures
  • Assist with year-end reporting, W-2 processing, and annual pay summaries
  • Support the team with special payroll-related projects as needed, including audits

 


Qualifications

  • The position requires a high school diploma and 2+ years of payroll experience with a medium-large sized organization. Degree in a related and supporting field of study preferred
  • Payroll experience in a multi-unit / multi-state restaurant or retail environment strongly preferred
  • Proficient in using HRIS software such as ADP (preferred), UKG or Workday.
  • Knowledge of payroll processes and regulations, including garnishments, payroll conversions, tax and withholding
  • Strong working knowledge of MS 365, (Excel, Word & Outlook), web-based applications & databases
  • Possess and maintain a high degree of confidentiality and professionalism
  • Customer service orientation toward service and building relationships

 


Who We Are

First Watch is an award-winning 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 includes elevated executions of classic favorites along with First Watch specialties such as the Quinoa Power Bowl®, Farm Stand Breakfast Tacos, Avocado Toast, Chickichanga, Morning Meditation (juiced in-house daily), Spiked Lavender Lemonade and its signature Million Dollar Bacon. In 2023, First Watch was named the top restaurant brand in Yelp’s inaugural list of the 50 most loved brands in the U.S. In 2023 and 2022, First Watch was named a Top 100 Most Loved Workplace® in Newsweek by the Best Practice Institute. In 2022, First Watch was awarded a sought-after MenuMasters honor by Nation’s Restaurant News for its seasonal Braised Short Rib Omelet and recognized with ADP’s coveted Culture at Work Award. First Watch operates more than 530 First Watch restaurants in 29 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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Facilities Manager - Southeast

Location: Bradenton

Overview

The Facilities Manager oversees the maintenance of the building and grounds of approximately 100 restaurant locations, assisting the restaurant management team in the oversight, purchasing and upkeep of equipment and supplies. The Facilities Manager works with the operations teams to make sure the building and grounds are maintained, which includes determining and scheduling regular maintenance, repairs and renovation projects. This position must oversee scheduled work as well as negotiate with outside vendors for supplies, repairs and other measures. Area of responsibility: North Florida, Georgia, Tennessee and Carolinas.

 


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.

  • Oversee building projects, maintenance and repair of all restaurant systems, assets and site improvements, including building, parking areas, HVAC, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, utilities and infrastructure systems
  • Implement and monitor proactive preventative maintenance programs for each facility. Monitor improvements to energy efficiency, HVAC, life safety, equipment, grease traps, landscaping, etc.
  • Schedule vendors to perform work in designated restaurants and provide onsite oversight as needed
  • Continually source and re-qualify suppliers. Perform routine assessment of vendor performance, pricing, on-time delivery, specifications, quality of product, workmanship, responsiveness, and issue resolution for the restaurants and other company assets.
  • Serve as lead contact for contracts, contact negotiation, and warranty oversight
  • Contribute to the development and management of facility maintenance capital projects and budgets for restaurants and other related assets subject to purchase, maintenance and repair
  • Under the direction of the Facilities Director, execute all capital projects with time and cost expectations.  Audit and approve invoices for scheduled and negotiated work
  • Coordinate with restaurant management regarding all facilities activity in the building
  • Provide guidance to operations on basic upkeep and maintenance tasks, repair/replace decisions as well as vendor contact and oversight and emergency procedures
  • Respond to calls on a 24-7 basis to promptly resolve urgent needs of facilities at existing restaurants
  • Regularly visit sites to evaluate conditions and identify potential repairs and facility maintenance projects
  • Inform supervisor by written status report and identification of issues requiring escalation or assistance
  • Ensure that restaurants meet government regulations and environmental, health and security standards
  • Execute equipment audits and record-taking policies

 


Qualifications

  • Bachelor's Degree from an accredited college or university or minimum of 10 years of experience as a Facilities Director or Facilities Manager
  • A minimum of 3 years of experience in the food service industry, multiunit restaurant experience preferred
  • Requires minimum 4-6 years related work experience in a multi-unit, commercial building environment
  • Experience managing a budget, reviewing P&L  and vendor management
  • Proficient in procurement and asset management software applications

 


Who We Are

First Watch is an award-winning 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 includes elevated executions of classic favorites along with First Watch specialties such as the Quinoa Power Bowl®, Farm Stand Breakfast Tacos, Avocado Toast, Chickichanga, Morning Meditation (juiced in-house daily), Spiked Lavender Lemonade and its signature Million Dollar Bacon. In 2023, First Watch was named the top restaurant brand in Yelp’s inaugural list of the 50 most loved brands in the U.S. In 2023 and 2022, First Watch was named a Top 100 Most Loved Workplace® in Newsweek by the Best Practice Institute. In 2022, First Watch was awarded a sought-after MenuMasters honor by Nation’s Restaurant News for its seasonal Braised Short Rib Omelet and recognized with ADP’s coveted Culture at Work Award. First Watch operates more than 530 First Watch restaurants in 29 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: Smyrna

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 an award-winning 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 includes elevated executions of classic favorites along with First Watch specialties such as the Quinoa Power Bowl®, Farm Stand Breakfast Tacos, Avocado Toast, Chickichanga, Morning Meditation (juiced in-house daily), Spiked Lavender Lemonade and its signature Million Dollar Bacon. In 2023, First Watch was named the top restaurant brand in Yelp’s inaugural list of the 50 most loved brands in the U.S. In 2023 and 2022, First Watch was named a Top 100 Most Loved Workplace® in Newsweek by the Best Practice Institute. In 2022, First Watch was awarded a sought-after MenuMasters honor by Nation’s Restaurant News for its seasonal Braised Short Rib Omelet and recognized with ADP’s coveted Culture at Work Award. First Watch operates more than 530 First Watch restaurants in 29 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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Tax Manager

Location: Bradenton

Overview

The Tax Manager is responsible for managing the implementation of tax policies and procedures in each tax jurisdiction in which the company operates while remaining in compliance with tax laws and accounting policies. This position will have primary responsibility for the managing of all tax related functions, as well as interface with outsourced vendor providing tax compliance services.

 


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. This job is based out of the Sarasota, Florida corporate office.

  • Manage the accurate and timely preparation and filing of federal, state, and local sales and use tax returns as well as all other areas of tax compliance in adherence with applicable tax laws.
  • Work closely with our third-party tax advisors to manage the accounting for corporate income taxes throughout the year, including gathering all appropriate information and performing a detailed review of year-end provisions prepared by third-party tax advisors and in house preparation of quarterly provisions with the third-party tax advisors providing consultation services.
  • Prepare quarterly and review year-end financial statement tax disclosures in accordance with US GAAP (ASC 740) for financial reporting.
  • Lead, manage, and develop Tax staff member.
  • Review reconciliations and analysis prepared by tax staff member.
  • Ensure compliance with appropriate internal controls for income taxes.
  • Develop a comprehensive understanding of the Company’s business and proactively work alongside Director of Tax Accounting and outsourced vendor on tax consequences of proposed business flow changes.
  • Liaison with Management, Director of Tax Accounting, Tax staff, and Accounting staff on any tax issues.
  • Manage all federal, state, and local tax audits (e.g., income tax, sales and use tax).
  • Work collaboratively with other corporate functions (e.g., internal audit, treasury, finance, licensing, legal, payroll).
  • Manage the retention of tax records and other required reports.
  • Maintain current knowledge of tax laws, updates/revisions, and inform Director of Tax Accounting of issues affecting First Watch.

 


Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s Degree (B.S.) in Accounting. Master’s Degree in Taxation preferred
  • CPA preferred
  • Six + years of related experience with at least 3 years working in a national public accounting firm and/or in a public corporation
  • At least 2 years of manager experience
  • Strong experience in ASC 740 and SEC reporting required
  • Solid understanding of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and Tax regulations
  • Expert-level ability with MS Excel
  • Experience working with third party service providers
  • Experience with ERP systems; Great Plains is preferred

 


Who We Are

First Watch is an award-winning 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 includes elevated executions of classic favorites along with First Watch specialties such as the Quinoa Power Bowl®, Farm Stand Breakfast Tacos, Avocado Toast, Chickichanga, Morning Meditation (juiced in-house daily), Spiked Lavender Lemonade and its signature Million Dollar Bacon. In 2023, First Watch was named the top restaurant brand in Yelp’s inaugural list of the 50 most loved brands in the U.S. In 2023 and 2022, First Watch was named a Top 100 Most Loved Workplace® in Newsweek by the Best Practice Institute. In 2022, First Watch was awarded a sought-after MenuMasters honor by Nation’s Restaurant News for its seasonal Braised Short Rib Omelet and recognized with ADP’s coveted Culture at Work Award. First Watch operates more than 530 First Watch restaurants in 29 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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Senior Accountant

Location: Bradenton

Overview

The Senior Accountant will support a variety of accounting functions with a primary focus on  lease accounting, sales, use and property taxes across the organization -- including numerous state and local jurisdictions - and assisting with account reconciliations and month-end close to support the integrity of financial statements in accordance with US GAAP. This position will also provide technical accounting support and assist the team in preparing for the Company’s external audits.

 


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.

  • Knowledge of U.S. GAAP, specifically Leases, ASC 842; ensuring compliance with ASC 842 as new leases and amendments are executed
  • Perform accounting for and manage the timely and accurate filing of, sales & use and property taxes
  • Understand changes in sales tax and property tax legislation
  • Facilitate any sales and property tax audits
  • Support the timely completion of month-end close process and reconciliations in compliance with U.S. GAAP
  • Work effectively and alongside third-party service providers (consultants, auditors)
  • Maintain a strong internal control environment
    Work collaboratively with other Corporate functions (Development, Operations, Finance)
  • Implement and develop solutions to drive efficiencies
  • Lead and support other accounting related projects and functions as assigned
  • Adhere to Company policies and procedures

 


Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s Degree with a concentration in Accounting/Finance and CPA license required; Master’s degree is a plus
  • Minimum 4-7 years of progressive accounting experience,
  • Excellent understanding of GAAP and relevant financial accounting regulations, specifically lease accounting (Leases, ASC 842)
  • Knowledge/exposure to sales and use tax, property tax and income tax
  • Experience within the retail, restaurant, or similar industry that includes multiple locations in various tax jurisdictions
  • Experience with and understanding of SEC rules a plus
  • Experience with external auditors
  • Advanced Microsoft Excel skills required
    Previous experience with Great Plains a plus
  • Public Accounting experience strongly preferred

 


Who We Are

First Watch is an award-winning 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 includes elevated executions of classic favorites along with First Watch specialties such as the Quinoa Power Bowl®, Farm Stand Breakfast Tacos, Avocado Toast, Chickichanga, Morning Meditation (juiced in-house daily), Spiked Lavender Lemonade and its signature Million Dollar Bacon. In 2023, First Watch was named the top restaurant brand in Yelp’s inaugural list of the 50 most loved brands in the U.S. In 2023 and 2022, First Watch was named a Top 100 Most Loved Workplace® in Newsweek by the Best Practice Institute. In 2022, First Watch was awarded a sought-after MenuMasters honor by Nation’s Restaurant News for its seasonal Braised Short Rib Omelet and recognized with ADP’s coveted Culture at Work Award. First Watch operates more than 530 First Watch restaurants in 29 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 Training

Location: Bradenton

Overview

The Director of Training is responsible for developing and executing comprehensive training programs that align with company brand standards and operational goals. This role will play a crucial role in ensuring that our staff receives the necessary skills, knowledge, and resources to excel in their roles and deliver exceptional customer experiences. The Director of Training maintains a deep understanding of restaurant operations, exceptional leadership skills and a commitment to fostering our You First culture. 

 


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.

 

Training Program Development:

  • Oversee the design, implementation, and continual refinement of training programs for all restaurant positions, including front-of-house, back-of-house staff and leadership positions
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure training programs align with the company’s goals, brand standards, and operational procedures
  • Lead the creation of training materials, manuals, modules, and resources that are innovative, engaging, effective, and in compliance with industry standards

Leadership and Team Development:

  • Lead and develop a team of trainers and content developers, providing guidance and support in their professional growth
  • Foster a positive training culture that emphasizes continuous improvement and excellence
  • Collaborate with HR to identify and address performance issues and recommend appropriate training interventions

Training Delivery:

  • Lead and conduct training sessions, both in-person and through digital platforms, for restaurant employees, managers and multi-unit operators at various locations
  • Assess training needs and tailor programs to address specific skill gaps.
  • Monitor the progress of trainees, provide feedback, and adapt training methods as needed

Continuous Learning and Development:

  • Establish a culture of continuous learning by providing ongoing training opportunities, workshops, and resources for employees at all levels
  • Identify and address skills gaps through targeted training initiatives and personalized development plans

Training Evaluation and Effectiveness:

  • Implement assessment tools and feedback mechanisms to measure the effectiveness of training programs
  • Analyze training data to identify areas for improvement and adjust programs accordingly

Compliance and Regulatory Training:

  • Ensure that all training programs meet industry-specific compliance requirements and adhere to relevant regulations and that materials remain up-to-date

 


Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field (Hospitality Management, Education, Training & Development). Master’s degree or relevant certifications are a plus
  • Extensive experience in restaurant operations and management
  • Proven track record in designing and implementing effective training programs, preferably in the restaurant or hospitality industry
  • Excellent communication and presentation abilities, with a focus on creating engaging and interactive training experiences
  • Proficiency in learning management systems (LMS) and other training-related technology

 


Who We Are

First Watch is an award-winning 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 includes elevated executions of classic favorites along with First Watch specialties such as the Quinoa Power Bowl®, Farm Stand Breakfast Tacos, Avocado Toast, Chickichanga, Morning Meditation (juiced in-house daily), Spiked Lavender Lemonade and its signature Million Dollar Bacon. In 2023, First Watch was named the top restaurant brand in Yelp’s inaugural list of the 50 most loved brands in the U.S. In 2023 and 2022, First Watch was named a Top 100 Most Loved Workplace® in Newsweek by the Best Practice Institute. In 2022, First Watch was awarded a sought-after MenuMasters honor by Nation’s Restaurant News for its seasonal Braised Short Rib Omelet and recognized with ADP’s coveted Culture at Work Award. First Watch operates more than 530 First Watch restaurants in 29 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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Regional VP

Location: Atlanta

Overview

The Regional Vice President (RVP) is responsible for supporting the mission, vision and values of First Watch through all that s/he does in their role every day. The primary purpose is to develop Directors of Operations, General Managers and restaurant teams, build on the Company's You First culture and create memorable experiences for each and every customer. The RVP is ultimately responsible for the success of all First Watch operations within their span of control. The RVP will typically have 3-5 direct reports and is responsible for a span of control of 250 – 500 employees. The RVP will be responsible for revenue operations in excess of ten to twenty five million dollars. This role will provide operational leadership within the assigned region of First Watch.

 


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.

  • Enhances organizational excellence by establishing operational benchmarks, timelines, and resources needed to achieve strategic goals
  • Proactively drives improvements and sets standards for accountability and measurements of success
  • Communicates effectively with management, hourly employees, and customers, providing positive feedback and promoting a positive / You First culture.
  • Fosters diverse and inclusive teams and working environments
  • Ensures the maintenance of a safe and harassment free workplace in all restaurants
  • Trains, coaches and develops Directors of Operations, General Managers and Operations Managers, through timely performance, observation feedback and evaluations
  • Safeguards the Company assets, including funds and collateral, equipment, and the facilities/building
  • Ensures cost effective and customer oriented openings of new restaurants within the area; and ensures a profitable performance as soon as possible in newly opened restaurants
  • Partners with Talent Acquisition team to ensure appropriate managerial staffing levels are maintained at the restaurants, to include growth and anticipated/unanticipated turnover, effectively plans manpower needs, identifies and develops the next DO and General Manager
  • Takes quick and responsible action in investigating and solving problems and uses reason when dealing with individual or staff performance based issues to include personality conflicts
  • Takes a lead role in administering an appropriate level of disciplinary action through the use of Company policies and procedures
  • Supports the senior leadership team by making consistent and progressive steps toward organizational sustainability; effectively communicating work plans and priorities derived from the organization's strategic plan coordinating accountabilities, objectives, and relevant budgets
  • Performs monthly inspections and administrative audits on each restaurant
  • Ensures smooth implementation of company initiatives, menu revisions, and changes to current programs
  • Acts as the administrative liaison between restaurants and the Home Office. Regularly channels communication up through the Vice President of Operations
  • Acts as a brand ambassador to promote First Watch outside the restaurant
  • Ensures compliance with all Federal, local, and state laws

 


Qualifications

  • High School Diploma required
  • Bachelors of Arts – concentration in food & beverage, business, marketing or management is preferred
  • A minimum five to ten years’ experience in a service-oriented, hospitality industry such as hotel, resort, restaurant, retail, entertainment venue preferred
  • A track record of leadership effectiveness, strong business acumen, and a demonstrated history of achieving results through collaboration, strong influence, and communication
  • Hands-on leadership style and ability to prioritize and deliver results in a fast-moving company
  • Ability to work with a level of ambiguity and still make decisions when not all variables are known
  • Strong project management, strategic communications and/or change management skills
  • Management skills in employee relations, recruiting and retention and employee recognition
  • Collaborative problem-solving, people, and time management skills
  • Solid level of competency in computer skills (Microsoft Office) is required
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to present ideas and suggestions clearly and effectively
  • Highly organized, detail-oriented self-starter, and the ability to exercise discretion and independent judgement without heavy oversight
  • Must hold a valid driver’s license and be able to travel as required for company business
  • Flexible and willing to work a varied schedule that could include nights, weekends and holidays as dictated by the needs of the business
  • Passion for providing excellent service and quality

 


Who We Are

First Watch is an award-winning 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 includes elevated executions of classic favorites along with First Watch specialties such as the Quinoa Power Bowl®, Farm Stand Breakfast Tacos, Avocado Toast, Chickichanga, Morning Meditation (juiced in-house daily), Spiked Lavender Lemonade and its signature Million Dollar Bacon. In 2023, First Watch was named the top restaurant brand in Yelp’s inaugural list of the 50 most loved brands in the U.S. In 2023 and 2022, First Watch was named a Top 100 Most Loved Workplace® in Newsweek by the Best Practice Institute. In 2022, First Watch was awarded a sought-after MenuMasters honor by Nation’s Restaurant News for its seasonal Braised Short Rib Omelet and recognized with ADP’s coveted Culture at Work Award. First Watch operates more than 530 First Watch restaurants in 29 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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Accounting Manager

Location: Bradenton

Overview

The Accounting Manager is a key financial professional responsible for ensuring compliance with accounting standards, implementing accounting policies, and providing technical support on accounting issues to staff. This role involves working closely with cross-functional teams, auditors and accounting team members to maintain accurate and timely financial reporting and internal controls.

 


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.

 

Technical Accounting Expertise

  • Stay abreast of evolving accounting standards (e.g., GAAP) and assess their impact on the organization
  • Research, interpret, and implement new accounting pronouncements or changes in regulations (SEC)
  • Provide guidance on accounting issues, collaborate with other departments to address challenges and document memos on technical / complex accounting issues / transactions (may include debt transactions, impairment analysis, cash flow hedge accounting, etc.)
  • Train and support accounting staff on GAAP accounting issues
  • Prepare/review journal entries, internal schedules, account reconciliations, accounting procedures, process memos

Financial Reporting

  • Preparation/review of schedules supporting the financial statements in compliance with applicable accounting standards
  • Preparation/review of financial statement disclosures to ensure compliance with US GAAP

Policy Development and Implementation

  • Develop and implement accounting policies
  • Work with various departments to communicate and educate teams on accounting policies and procedures
  • Ensure staff on the accounting team are aware of accounting policy updates for compliance
  • Monitor and assess the effectiveness of existing policies and recommend updates as needed

Internal Controls

  • Establish and maintain a strong system of internal controls
  • Collaborate with internal audit to identify and address control deficiencies
  • Implement best practices to enhance the effectiveness of internal controls

Collaboration and Communication

  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including finance, treasury, operations, purchasing, etc. to address accounting-related matters
  • Communicate complex accounting issues in a clear and concise manner
  • Work closely with, train and develop accounting team members

Advisory Role

  • Provide guidance on transactions, mergers and acquisitions, and other business initiatives to ensure compliance with accounting standards
  • Evaluate the financial impact of proposed transactions and provide recommendations

 


Qualifications

  • Strong knowledge of GAAP
  • Bachelor's degree in Accounting
  • CPA preferred
  • Public company experience preferred
  • Extensive experience (typically 5-7 years) in accounting roles, with demonstrated progression
  • Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills
  • Effective communication and interpersonal skills
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a dynamic environment
  • Experience with ERP systems and proficiency in Microsoft Excel

 


Who We Are

First Watch is an award-winning 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 includes elevated executions of classic favorites along with First Watch specialties such as the Quinoa Power Bowl®, Farm Stand Breakfast Tacos, Avocado Toast, Chickichanga, Morning Meditation (juiced in-house daily), Spiked Lavender Lemonade and its signature Million Dollar Bacon. In 2023, First Watch was named the top restaurant brand in Yelp’s inaugural list of the 50 most loved brands in the U.S. In 2023 and 2022, First Watch was named a Top 100 Most Loved Workplace® in Newsweek by the Best Practice Institute. In 2022, First Watch was awarded a sought-after MenuMasters honor by Nation’s Restaurant News for its seasonal Braised Short Rib Omelet and recognized with ADP’s coveted Culture at Work Award. First Watch operates more than 530 First Watch restaurants in 29 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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Training Program Administrator

Location: Bradenton

Overview

The Training Program Administrator will support a variety of operational and administrative functions as it relates to the training and development of all First Watch employees. They will act in support of the mission, vision, and values of First Watch Restaurants through all that they do in their role every day. This position will work towards accomplishing stated goals and objectives to achieve desired results while focusing on the long-term profitability of the company.

 


Responsibilities

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

  • Provides general support to the field, owns thetraining@firstwatch.cominbox and responds to training questions according to our established SOPs
  • Takes notes and shares communication during / after department meetings
  • Maintains the tracking and completion of large-scale projects and departmental goals
  • Monitors compliance completions and reporting in the Learning Management System (Schoox)
  • Partners with Home Office Operations, Culinary, and Training partners to ensure accuracy of related LMS content, as well as shape new features and functionality of the LMS and other learning tools
  • Learns & utilizes “the voice” of First Watch in training materials, such as training guides, videos, policy updates and general operational information
  • Makes suggestions to improve orientation and on-boarding practices as it relates to the LMS or ADP
  • Schedules and facilitates Onboarding / Orientation Sessions and in-restaurant training for Home Office employees
  • Maintains all logistics for the national recognition program, including Legacy Pin Program and other recognition communications
  • Communicates compliance report deficiencies with Ops Leadership in the field
  • Manages the upkeep of training documents located in SharePoint / InfoHub
  • Assists with logistics planning of the Leadership Conference, registration, travel, communication, etc.
  • Works shoulder-to-shoulder with the training team to review and update training content and deploy traning materials (as needed) to existing restaurants
  • Monitors the communication and training process for new Managers-in-Training
  • Coordinates Certified General Manager (CGM) / Certified Training Restaurant communication, including announcements, bonus payouts and evaluation surveys completed by Managers-in-Training
  • Reconciles department expenditures – codes expenses to correct departments and/or restaurants
  • Communicates training feedback and handles complaints in a timely and efficient manner

 


Qualifications

  • Minimum one to three years of experience in a service-oriented, hospitality industry such as hotel, resort, restaurant, retail, entertainment venue preferred
  • First Watch Management experience preferred but not required
  • Strong computer skills (Outlook, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.)
  • A passion for learning and the ongoing development of others
  • Able to understand needed knowledge and skills of every position in the restaurant
  • Team player with excellent interpersonal/communication skills – up, down, and across the organization
  • Has demonstrated credibility (garners respect, acts with integrity and keeps commitments), is proactive (has a point of view and takes initiative) and is a good partner (builds relationships and delivers results)

 


Who We Are

First Watch is an award-winning 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 includes elevated executions of classic favorites along with First Watch specialties such as the Quinoa Power Bowl®, Farm Stand Breakfast Tacos, Avocado Toast, Chickichanga, Morning Meditation (juiced in-house daily), Spiked Lavender Lemonade and its signature Million Dollar Bacon. In 2023, First Watch was named the top restaurant brand in Yelp’s inaugural list of the 50 most loved brands in the U.S. In 2023 and 2022, First Watch was named a Top 100 Most Loved Workplace® in Newsweek by the Best Practice Institute. In 2022, First Watch was awarded a sought-after MenuMasters honor by Nation’s Restaurant News for its seasonal Braised Short Rib Omelet and recognized with ADP’s coveted Culture at Work Award. First Watch operates more than 530 First Watch restaurants in 29 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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Regional Talent Director

Location: Bradenton

Overview

The Regional Talent Director will serve as a key business partner and lead the talent management lifecycle in a designated operations division, focused on attracting and hiring a diverse staff of exceptional people. The Regional Talent Director will be a strategic business partner to the VP and RVPs in a division, providing HR expertise to hire the best talent, support a diverse, inclusive work environment and deliver a robust talent pipeline to drive a high-growth, high-performing business model. This is a remote role supporting the South division, and the ideal candidate will reside in Tampa, Jacksonville, or Atlanta.

 


Responsibilities

The essential functions in this job description are not all-inclusive of this position’s duties and responsibilities.  The percent of time spent on each of the responsibilities below will vary based on the talent strengths and opportunities within each respective division.

 

Talent Acquisition

  • Partner with Operation leaders to meet the company’s high-growth staffing goals and enable a high-performing, inclusive culture. Analyze, develop, and implement creative talent acquisition strategies.
  • Lead and facilitate the management interview and selection process with applicants and RVPs/DOs to ensure proactive staffing levels are met through on-time MIT talent acquisition leveraging a balance of internal and external candidates.
  • Conduct weekly calls with RVPs and Directors within respective division to assess current recruiting needs; provide monthly summary recap to VP.
  • Monitor, maintain and assess management rosters with Operations Leadership for succession planning to identify current & future talent acquisition opportunities.
  • Accurately execute all hiring system responsibilities, resume screening, applicant tracking, background checks, candidate communications and new hire administration. Ensures process compliance to minimize company risk and liability.
  • Manage company career sites and Internet job boards, engage in relevant social media / networking strategies to promote an employer-of-choice branding campaign, recruiting agency management, actively promote manager referral programs and utilize other effective recruiting strategies.
  • Establish and advance positive First Watch image with students/faculty at targeted universities with a hospitality program within Division, attend career fairs, conduct live and virtual classroom presentations and live/video student interviews.
  • Develop and implement diversity recruiting strategies to source diverse talent.
  • Develop strong relationships with and deliver professional talent acquisition services to operations clients.
  • Deliver a positive applicant/candidate experience to promote First Watch/You First brand image & reputation.
  • Convey subject matter knowledge on TA related topics to market leaders (e.g. compensation/benefits, relocation etc.).

 

Talent Identification and Retention

  • Serve as a strategic partner to the VP, RVPs and DOs, focused on talent planning.
  • Conduct monthly calls with all Directors and RVPs within respective division to assess current talent. (development needs, flight risks, etc.); provide monthly summary recap to VP.
  • Aid in identifying talent gaps and offering effective solutions that support business objectives (partnering with Training resources). Recommend training enhancements to continuously improve materials and delivery.
  • Support the Talent Review process within respective division; ensure talent assessments within Division are completed in a thorough and timely manner and utilize information to drive targeted training/development and succession planning support.
  • Ensure clear, thoughtful and current succession planning is in place to keep division pipeline strong.
  • Analyze and understand the turnover trends within a division and partner with appropriate Operations leadership to identify the root cause and address retention issues.
  • Assist with the selection and development of NRO trainers in respective division to ensure a talented, diverse pool of trainers is available to support varying NRO needs.
  • Support and monitor the internal promotion process within a division.
  • Maintain communication with new MITs through training to ensure expectations are being met.
  • Provide additional HR support as needed with key market activity.

 


Qualifications

  • Bachelor's Degree in Business, Education, Human Resources or a related field required.
  • Minimum of 5 years of experience in a Recruiting or HRBP role.
  • Multi-unit restaurant, retail or hospitality experience preferred.
  • Deep knowledge of recruiting practices, principles and methods, including interviewing and assessment skills.
  • Talent advisor behaviors/competencies, supported by a solid understanding of the business, external / internal labor market, competitive landscape, and data analytics.
  • Business partner mindset with the experience, credibility and confidence necessary to work with and influence market leaders, HR colleagues, and employees at all levels to deliver results. 

 


Who We Are

First Watch is an award-winning 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 includes elevated executions of classic favorites along with First Watch specialties such as the Quinoa Power Bowl®, Farm Stand Breakfast Tacos, Avocado Toast, Chickichanga, Morning Meditation (juiced in-house daily), Spiked Lavender Lemonade and its signature Million Dollar Bacon. In 2023, First Watch was named the top restaurant brand in Yelp’s inaugural list of the 50 most loved brands in the U.S. In 2023 and 2022, First Watch was named a Top 100 Most Loved Workplace® in Newsweek by the Best Practice Institute. In 2022, First Watch was awarded a sought-after MenuMasters honor by Nation’s Restaurant News for its seasonal Braised Short Rib Omelet and recognized with ADP’s coveted Culture at Work Award. First Watch operates more than 530 First Watch restaurants in 29 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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Supply Chain Analyst

Location: Bradenton

Overview

The Supply Chain Analyst will be responsible for assembling data, analyzing performance, identifying problems, and developing recommendations which support operations and multiple internal business lines while ensuring a high rate of project communication and completion. This position uses analytical and quantitative methods to understand, predict, improve, forecast and/or support chain operations and distribution processes.Must be a self-starter, detail oriented, analytically minded, use critical thinking and be able to support and lead multiple projects. Be able, motivated, and energized to support a global business operating in multiple time-zones and work cross-functionally and cross-culturally with internal and external clients/partners.

 


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.

  • Provide product information JIT for Procure To Pay and Inventory programs
  • Create, improve, and maintain reporting and analytical capabilities to support decision-making using tools like Excel and business analysis tools like Power BI or Tableau
  • Use current visualization tools for process mapping and problem-solving
  • Analyze and optimize service trends: identify patterns of missed opportunities, measure on-going project success and be able to work on continuous improvement in all areas of the supply chain
  • Support finished goods optimization modeling in distribution centers (SKU level, and by distribution location)
  • Identify savings and value opportunities through data analysis and be able to work with internal and external partners
  • Collect, analyze and recommend action to support NRO’s, LTO’s and other strategic projects.
  • Provide supply chain analysis to first and last mile transportation, distribution and ancillary service costs building an end-to-end cost picture
  • Work with Director of Supply Chain to build various reporting and analytics as required (inventory, spend profile, etc)
  • Report out to business leadership - KPI’s, project updates, and business status as needed with consistent accuracy and a sense of urgency
  • Collaborate within the company including Operations, Finance, Accounting, I.T. and suppliers

 


Qualifications

  • Minimum of 3 years of demonstrated success in Supply Chain or Procurement experience specifically in the areas forecasting, inventory management and/or procurement
  • Four (4) year college degree or equivalent 5 years of industry experience in Foodservice and Supply Chain preferred

Who We Are

First Watch is an award-winning 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 includes elevated executions of classic favorites along with First Watch specialties such as the Quinoa Power Bowl®, Farm Stand Breakfast Tacos, Avocado Toast, Chickichanga, Morning Meditation (juiced in-house daily), Spiked Lavender Lemonade and its signature Million Dollar Bacon. In 2023, First Watch was named the top restaurant brand in Yelp’s inaugural list of the 50 most loved brands in the U.S. In 2023 and 2022, First Watch was named a Top 100 Most Loved Workplace® in Newsweek by the Best Practice Institute. In 2022, First Watch was awarded a sought-after MenuMasters honor by Nation’s Restaurant News for its seasonal Braised Short Rib Omelet and recognized with ADP’s coveted Culture at Work Award. First Watch operates more than 530 First Watch restaurants in 29 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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Payroll Specialist

Location: Bradenton

Overview

The Payroll Specialist is responsible for supporting accurate and timely processing of payroll for First Watch employees as well as the people analytics with the oversight of the Payroll Supervisor. The position requires a basic understanding of payroll systems to carry out the principles and standards that support the Company’s business and human resources related responsibilities.

 


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 in the preparation of the biweekly payroll, reviews and processes employee payroll changes
  • Update payroll records and assist the team in preparing payroll for timely processing
  • Answer inquiries directed to the payroll inbox and respond in a professional and timely manner
  • Run audit reports for the field and reach out to managers to correct data flowing to payroll
  • Maintain pay cards for all company restaurants
  • Send garnishment orders to third party vendors for processing
  • Effectively communicate with all levels to establish and maintain positive working relationships
  • Investigate and issue manual check requests
  • Coordinate questions from the field regarding daily tip out procedures
  • Field PTO requests from the field as it relates to their balances
  • Answer questions about payroll matters which require limited policy interpretation
  • Complete forms requiring payroll data
  • Make recommendations for improvements to payroll procedures
  • Assist with year-end reporting, W-2 processing, and annual pay summaries
  • Support the team with special payroll-related projects as needed, including audits

 


Qualifications

  • The position requires a high school diploma and 2+ years of payroll experience with a medium-large sized organization. Degree in a related and supporting field of study preferred
  • Payroll experience in a multi-unit / multi-state restaurant or retail environment strongly preferred
  • Proficient in using HRIS software such as ADP (preferred), UKG or Workday.
  • Knowledge of payroll processes and regulations, including garnishments, payroll conversions, tax and withholding
  • Strong working knowledge of MS 365, (Excel, Word & Outlook), web-based applications & databases
  • Possess and maintain a high degree of confidentiality and professionalism
  • Customer service orientation toward service and building relationships

 


Who We Are

First Watch is an award-winning 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 includes elevated executions of classic favorites along with First Watch specialties such as the Quinoa Power Bowl®, Farm Stand Breakfast Tacos, Avocado Toast, Chickichanga, Morning Meditation (juiced in-house daily), Spiked Lavender Lemonade and its signature Million Dollar Bacon. In 2023, First Watch was named the top restaurant brand in Yelp’s inaugural list of the 50 most loved brands in the U.S. In 2023 and 2022, First Watch was named a Top 100 Most Loved Workplace® in Newsweek by the Best Practice Institute. In 2022, First Watch was awarded a sought-after MenuMasters honor by Nation’s Restaurant News for its seasonal Braised Short Rib Omelet and recognized with ADP’s coveted Culture at Work Award. First Watch operates more than 530 First Watch restaurants in 29 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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Facilities Manager - Southeast

Location: Bradenton

Overview

The Facilities Manager oversees the maintenance of the building and grounds of approximately 100 restaurant locations, assisting the restaurant management team in the oversight, purchasing and upkeep of equipment and supplies. The Facilities Manager works with the operations teams to make sure the building and grounds are maintained, which includes determining and scheduling regular maintenance, repairs and renovation projects. This position must oversee scheduled work as well as negotiate with outside vendors for supplies, repairs and other measures. Area of responsibility: North Florida, Georgia, Tennessee and Carolinas.

 


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.

  • Oversee building projects, maintenance and repair of all restaurant systems, assets and site improvements, including building, parking areas, HVAC, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, utilities and infrastructure systems
  • Implement and monitor proactive preventative maintenance programs for each facility. Monitor improvements to energy efficiency, HVAC, life safety, equipment, grease traps, landscaping, etc.
  • Schedule vendors to perform work in designated restaurants and provide onsite oversight as needed
  • Continually source and re-qualify suppliers. Perform routine assessment of vendor performance, pricing, on-time delivery, specifications, quality of product, workmanship, responsiveness, and issue resolution for the restaurants and other company assets.
  • Serve as lead contact for contracts, contact negotiation, and warranty oversight
  • Contribute to the development and management of facility maintenance capital projects and budgets for restaurants and other related assets subject to purchase, maintenance and repair
  • Under the direction of the Facilities Director, execute all capital projects with time and cost expectations.  Audit and approve invoices for scheduled and negotiated work
  • Coordinate with restaurant management regarding all facilities activity in the building
  • Provide guidance to operations on basic upkeep and maintenance tasks, repair/replace decisions as well as vendor contact and oversight and emergency procedures
  • Respond to calls on a 24-7 basis to promptly resolve urgent needs of facilities at existing restaurants
  • Regularly visit sites to evaluate conditions and identify potential repairs and facility maintenance projects
  • Inform supervisor by written status report and identification of issues requiring escalation or assistance
  • Ensure that restaurants meet government regulations and environmental, health and security standards
  • Execute equipment audits and record-taking policies

 


Qualifications

  • Bachelor's Degree from an accredited college or university or minimum of 10 years of experience as a Facilities Director or Facilities Manager
  • A minimum of 3 years of experience in the food service industry, multiunit restaurant experience preferred
  • Requires minimum 4-6 years related work experience in a multi-unit, commercial building environment
  • Experience managing a budget, reviewing P&L  and vendor management
  • Proficient in procurement and asset management software applications

 


Who We Are

First Watch is an award-winning 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 includes elevated executions of classic favorites along with First Watch specialties such as the Quinoa Power Bowl®, Farm Stand Breakfast Tacos, Avocado Toast, Chickichanga, Morning Meditation (juiced in-house daily), Spiked Lavender Lemonade and its signature Million Dollar Bacon. In 2023, First Watch was named the top restaurant brand in Yelp’s inaugural list of the 50 most loved brands in the U.S. In 2023 and 2022, First Watch was named a Top 100 Most Loved Workplace® in Newsweek by the Best Practice Institute. In 2022, First Watch was awarded a sought-after MenuMasters honor by Nation’s Restaurant News for its seasonal Braised Short Rib Omelet and recognized with ADP’s coveted Culture at Work Award. First Watch operates more than 530 First Watch restaurants in 29 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: Smyrna

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 an award-winning 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 includes elevated executions of classic favorites along with First Watch specialties such as the Quinoa Power Bowl®, Farm Stand Breakfast Tacos, Avocado Toast, Chickichanga, Morning Meditation (juiced in-house daily), Spiked Lavender Lemonade and its signature Million Dollar Bacon. In 2023, First Watch was named the top restaurant brand in Yelp’s inaugural list of the 50 most loved brands in the U.S. In 2023 and 2022, First Watch was named a Top 100 Most Loved Workplace® in Newsweek by the Best Practice Institute. In 2022, First Watch was awarded a sought-after MenuMasters honor by Nation’s Restaurant News for its seasonal Braised Short Rib Omelet and recognized with ADP’s coveted Culture at Work Award. First Watch operates more than 530 First Watch restaurants in 29 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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Tax Manager

Location: Bradenton

Overview

The Tax Manager is responsible for managing the implementation of tax policies and procedures in each tax jurisdiction in which the company operates while remaining in compliance with tax laws and accounting policies. This position will have primary responsibility for the managing of all tax related functions, as well as interface with outsourced vendor providing tax compliance services.

 


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. This job is based out of the Sarasota, Florida corporate office.

  • Manage the accurate and timely preparation and filing of federal, state, and local sales and use tax returns as well as all other areas of tax compliance in adherence with applicable tax laws.
  • Work closely with our third-party tax advisors to manage the accounting for corporate income taxes throughout the year, including gathering all appropriate information and performing a detailed review of year-end provisions prepared by third-party tax advisors and in house preparation of quarterly provisions with the third-party tax advisors providing consultation services.
  • Prepare quarterly and review year-end financial statement tax disclosures in accordance with US GAAP (ASC 740) for financial reporting.
  • Lead, manage, and develop Tax staff member.
  • Review reconciliations and analysis prepared by tax staff member.
  • Ensure compliance with appropriate internal controls for income taxes.
  • Develop a comprehensive understanding of the Company’s business and proactively work alongside Director of Tax Accounting and outsourced vendor on tax consequences of proposed business flow changes.
  • Liaison with Management, Director of Tax Accounting, Tax staff, and Accounting staff on any tax issues.
  • Manage all federal, state, and local tax audits (e.g., income tax, sales and use tax).
  • Work collaboratively with other corporate functions (e.g., internal audit, treasury, finance, licensing, legal, payroll).
  • Manage the retention of tax records and other required reports.
  • Maintain current knowledge of tax laws, updates/revisions, and inform Director of Tax Accounting of issues affecting First Watch.

 


Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s Degree (B.S.) in Accounting. Master’s Degree in Taxation preferred
  • CPA preferred
  • Six + years of related experience with at least 3 years working in a national public accounting firm and/or in a public corporation
  • At least 2 years of manager experience
  • Strong experience in ASC 740 and SEC reporting required
  • Solid understanding of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and Tax regulations
  • Expert-level ability with MS Excel
  • Experience working with third party service providers
  • Experience with ERP systems; Great Plains is preferred

 


Who We Are

First Watch is an award-winning 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 includes elevated executions of classic favorites along with First Watch specialties such as the Quinoa Power Bowl®, Farm Stand Breakfast Tacos, Avocado Toast, Chickichanga, Morning Meditation (juiced in-house daily), Spiked Lavender Lemonade and its signature Million Dollar Bacon. In 2023, First Watch was named the top restaurant brand in Yelp’s inaugural list of the 50 most loved brands in the U.S. In 2023 and 2022, First Watch was named a Top 100 Most Loved Workplace® in Newsweek by the Best Practice Institute. In 2022, First Watch was awarded a sought-after MenuMasters honor by Nation’s Restaurant News for its seasonal Braised Short Rib Omelet and recognized with ADP’s coveted Culture at Work Award. First Watch operates more than 530 First Watch restaurants in 29 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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Senior Accountant

Location: Bradenton

Overview

The Senior Accountant will support a variety of accounting functions with a primary focus on  lease accounting, sales, use and property taxes across the organization -- including numerous state and local jurisdictions - and assisting with account reconciliations and month-end close to support the integrity of financial statements in accordance with US GAAP. This position will also provide technical accounting support and assist the team in preparing for the Company’s external audits.

 


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.

  • Knowledge of U.S. GAAP, specifically Leases, ASC 842; ensuring compliance with ASC 842 as new leases and amendments are executed
  • Perform accounting for and manage the timely and accurate filing of, sales & use and property taxes
  • Understand changes in sales tax and property tax legislation
  • Facilitate any sales and property tax audits
  • Support the timely completion of month-end close process and reconciliations in compliance with U.S. GAAP
  • Work effectively and alongside third-party service providers (consultants, auditors)
  • Maintain a strong internal control environment
    Work collaboratively with other Corporate functions (Development, Operations, Finance)
  • Implement and develop solutions to drive efficiencies
  • Lead and support other accounting related projects and functions as assigned
  • Adhere to Company policies and procedures

 


Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s Degree with a concentration in Accounting/Finance and CPA license required; Master’s degree is a plus
  • Minimum 4-7 years of progressive accounting experience,
  • Excellent understanding of GAAP and relevant financial accounting regulations, specifically lease accounting (Leases, ASC 842)
  • Knowledge/exposure to sales and use tax, property tax and income tax
  • Experience within the retail, restaurant, or similar industry that includes multiple locations in various tax jurisdictions
  • Experience with and understanding of SEC rules a plus
  • Experience with external auditors
  • Advanced Microsoft Excel skills required
    Previous experience with Great Plains a plus
  • Public Accounting experience strongly preferred

 


Who We Are

First Watch is an award-winning 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 includes elevated executions of classic favorites along with First Watch specialties such as the Quinoa Power Bowl®, Farm Stand Breakfast Tacos, Avocado Toast, Chickichanga, Morning Meditation (juiced in-house daily), Spiked Lavender Lemonade and its signature Million Dollar Bacon. In 2023, First Watch was named the top restaurant brand in Yelp’s inaugural list of the 50 most loved brands in the U.S. In 2023 and 2022, First Watch was named a Top 100 Most Loved Workplace® in Newsweek by the Best Practice Institute. In 2022, First Watch was awarded a sought-after MenuMasters honor by Nation’s Restaurant News for its seasonal Braised Short Rib Omelet and recognized with ADP’s coveted Culture at Work Award. First Watch operates more than 530 First Watch restaurants in 29 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 Training

Location: Bradenton

Overview

The Director of Training is responsible for developing and executing comprehensive training programs that align with company brand standards and operational goals. This role will play a crucial role in ensuring that our staff receives the necessary skills, knowledge, and resources to excel in their roles and deliver exceptional customer experiences. The Director of Training maintains a deep understanding of restaurant operations, exceptional leadership skills and a commitment to fostering our You First culture. 

 


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.

 

Training Program Development:

  • Oversee the design, implementation, and continual refinement of training programs for all restaurant positions, including front-of-house, back-of-house staff and leadership positions
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure training programs align with the company’s goals, brand standards, and operational procedures
  • Lead the creation of training materials, manuals, modules, and resources that are innovative, engaging, effective, and in compliance with industry standards

Leadership and Team Development:

  • Lead and develop a team of trainers and content developers, providing guidance and support in their professional growth
  • Foster a positive training culture that emphasizes continuous improvement and excellence
  • Collaborate with HR to identify and address performance issues and recommend appropriate training interventions

Training Delivery:

  • Lead and conduct training sessions, both in-person and through digital platforms, for restaurant employees, managers and multi-unit operators at various locations
  • Assess training needs and tailor programs to address specific skill gaps.
  • Monitor the progress of trainees, provide feedback, and adapt training methods as needed

Continuous Learning and Development:

  • Establish a culture of continuous learning by providing ongoing training opportunities, workshops, and resources for employees at all levels
  • Identify and address skills gaps through targeted training initiatives and personalized development plans

Training Evaluation and Effectiveness:

  • Implement assessment tools and feedback mechanisms to measure the effectiveness of training programs
  • Analyze training data to identify areas for improvement and adjust programs accordingly

Compliance and Regulatory Training:

  • Ensure that all training programs meet industry-specific compliance requirements and adhere to relevant regulations and that materials remain up-to-date

 


Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field (Hospitality Management, Education, Training & Development). Master’s degree or relevant certifications are a plus
  • Extensive experience in restaurant operations and management
  • Proven track record in designing and implementing effective training programs, preferably in the restaurant or hospitality industry
  • Excellent communication and presentation abilities, with a focus on creating engaging and interactive training experiences
  • Proficiency in learning management systems (LMS) and other training-related technology

 


Who We Are

First Watch is an award-winning 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 includes elevated executions of classic favorites along with First Watch specialties such as the Quinoa Power Bowl®, Farm Stand Breakfast Tacos, Avocado Toast, Chickichanga, Morning Meditation (juiced in-house daily), Spiked Lavender Lemonade and its signature Million Dollar Bacon. In 2023, First Watch was named the top restaurant brand in Yelp’s inaugural list of the 50 most loved brands in the U.S. In 2023 and 2022, First Watch was named a Top 100 Most Loved Workplace® in Newsweek by the Best Practice Institute. In 2022, First Watch was awarded a sought-after MenuMasters honor by Nation’s Restaurant News for its seasonal Braised Short Rib Omelet and recognized with ADP’s coveted Culture at Work Award. First Watch operates more than 530 First Watch restaurants in 29 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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Regional VP

Location: Atlanta

Overview

The Regional Vice President (RVP) is responsible for supporting the mission, vision and values of First Watch through all that s/he does in their role every day. The primary purpose is to develop Directors of Operations, General Managers and restaurant teams, build on the Company's You First culture and create memorable experiences for each and every customer. The RVP is ultimately responsible for the success of all First Watch operations within their span of control. The RVP will typically have 3-5 direct reports and is responsible for a span of control of 250 – 500 employees. The RVP will be responsible for revenue operations in excess of ten to twenty five million dollars. This role will provide operational leadership within the assigned region of First Watch.

 


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.

  • Enhances organizational excellence by establishing operational benchmarks, timelines, and resources needed to achieve strategic goals
  • Proactively drives improvements and sets standards for accountability and measurements of success
  • Communicates effectively with management, hourly employees, and customers, providing positive feedback and promoting a positive / You First culture.
  • Fosters diverse and inclusive teams and working environments
  • Ensures the maintenance of a safe and harassment free workplace in all restaurants
  • Trains, coaches and develops Directors of Operations, General Managers and Operations Managers, through timely performance, observation feedback and evaluations
  • Safeguards the Company assets, including funds and collateral, equipment, and the facilities/building
  • Ensures cost effective and customer oriented openings of new restaurants within the area; and ensures a profitable performance as soon as possible in newly opened restaurants
  • Partners with Talent Acquisition team to ensure appropriate managerial staffing levels are maintained at the restaurants, to include growth and anticipated/unanticipated turnover, effectively plans manpower needs, identifies and develops the next DO and General Manager
  • Takes quick and responsible action in investigating and solving problems and uses reason when dealing with individual or staff performance based issues to include personality conflicts
  • Takes a lead role in administering an appropriate level of disciplinary action through the use of Company policies and procedures
  • Supports the senior leadership team by making consistent and progressive steps toward organizational sustainability; effectively communicating work plans and priorities derived from the organization's strategic plan coordinating accountabilities, objectives, and relevant budgets
  • Performs monthly inspections and administrative audits on each restaurant
  • Ensures smooth implementation of company initiatives, menu revisions, and changes to current programs
  • Acts as the administrative liaison between restaurants and the Home Office. Regularly channels communication up through the Vice President of Operations
  • Acts as a brand ambassador to promote First Watch outside the restaurant
  • Ensures compliance with all Federal, local, and state laws

 


Qualifications

  • High School Diploma required
  • Bachelors of Arts – concentration in food & beverage, business, marketing or management is preferred
  • A minimum five to ten years’ experience in a service-oriented, hospitality industry such as hotel, resort, restaurant, retail, entertainment venue preferred
  • A track record of leadership effectiveness, strong business acumen, and a demonstrated history of achieving results through collaboration, strong influence, and communication
  • Hands-on leadership style and ability to prioritize and deliver results in a fast-moving company
  • Ability to work with a level of ambiguity and still make decisions when not all variables are known
  • Strong project management, strategic communications and/or change management skills
  • Management skills in employee relations, recruiting and retention and employee recognition
  • Collaborative problem-solving, people, and time management skills
  • Solid level of competency in computer skills (Microsoft Office) is required
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to present ideas and suggestions clearly and effectively
  • Highly organized, detail-oriented self-starter, and the ability to exercise discretion and independent judgement without heavy oversight
  • Must hold a valid driver’s license and be able to travel as required for company business
  • Flexible and willing to work a varied schedule that could include nights, weekends and holidays as dictated by the needs of the business
  • Passion for providing excellent service and quality

 


Who We Are

First Watch is an award-winning 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 includes elevated executions of classic favorites along with First Watch specialties such as the Quinoa Power Bowl®, Farm Stand Breakfast Tacos, Avocado Toast, Chickichanga, Morning Meditation (juiced in-house daily), Spiked Lavender Lemonade and its signature Million Dollar Bacon. In 2023, First Watch was named the top restaurant brand in Yelp’s inaugural list of the 50 most loved brands in the U.S. In 2023 and 2022, First Watch was named a Top 100 Most Loved Workplace® in Newsweek by the Best Practice Institute. In 2022, First Watch was awarded a sought-after MenuMasters honor by Nation’s Restaurant News for its seasonal Braised Short Rib Omelet and recognized with ADP’s coveted Culture at Work Award. First Watch operates more than 530 First Watch restaurants in 29 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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Accounting Manager

Location: Bradenton

Overview

The Accounting Manager is a key financial professional responsible for ensuring compliance with accounting standards, implementing accounting policies, and providing technical support on accounting issues to staff. This role involves working closely with cross-functional teams, auditors and accounting team members to maintain accurate and timely financial reporting and internal controls.

 


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.

 

Technical Accounting Expertise

  • Stay abreast of evolving accounting standards (e.g., GAAP) and assess their impact on the organization
  • Research, interpret, and implement new accounting pronouncements or changes in regulations (SEC)
  • Provide guidance on accounting issues, collaborate with other departments to address challenges and document memos on technical / complex accounting issues / transactions (may include debt transactions, impairment analysis, cash flow hedge accounting, etc.)
  • Train and support accounting staff on GAAP accounting issues
  • Prepare/review journal entries, internal schedules, account reconciliations, accounting procedures, process memos

Financial Reporting

  • Preparation/review of schedules supporting the financial statements in compliance with applicable accounting standards
  • Preparation/review of financial statement disclosures to ensure compliance with US GAAP

Policy Development and Implementation

  • Develop and implement accounting policies
  • Work with various departments to communicate and educate teams on accounting policies and procedures
  • Ensure staff on the accounting team are aware of accounting policy updates for compliance
  • Monitor and assess the effectiveness of existing policies and recommend updates as needed

Internal Controls

  • Establish and maintain a strong system of internal controls
  • Collaborate with internal audit to identify and address control deficiencies
  • Implement best practices to enhance the effectiveness of internal controls

Collaboration and Communication

  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including finance, treasury, operations, purchasing, etc. to address accounting-related matters
  • Communicate complex accounting issues in a clear and concise manner
  • Work closely with, train and develop accounting team members

Advisory Role

  • Provide guidance on transactions, mergers and acquisitions, and other business initiatives to ensure compliance with accounting standards
  • Evaluate the financial impact of proposed transactions and provide recommendations

 


Qualifications

  • Strong knowledge of GAAP
  • Bachelor's degree in Accounting
  • CPA preferred
  • Public company experience preferred
  • Extensive experience (typically 5-7 years) in accounting roles, with demonstrated progression
  • Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills
  • Effective communication and interpersonal skills
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a dynamic environment
  • Experience with ERP systems and proficiency in Microsoft Excel

 


Who We Are

First Watch is an award-winning 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 includes elevated executions of classic favorites along with First Watch specialties such as the Quinoa Power Bowl®, Farm Stand Breakfast Tacos, Avocado Toast, Chickichanga, Morning Meditation (juiced in-house daily), Spiked Lavender Lemonade and its signature Million Dollar Bacon. In 2023, First Watch was named the top restaurant brand in Yelp’s inaugural list of the 50 most loved brands in the U.S. In 2023 and 2022, First Watch was named a Top 100 Most Loved Workplace® in Newsweek by the Best Practice Institute. In 2022, First Watch was awarded a sought-after MenuMasters honor by Nation’s Restaurant News for its seasonal Braised Short Rib Omelet and recognized with ADP’s coveted Culture at Work Award. First Watch operates more than 530 First Watch restaurants in 29 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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Training Program Administrator

Location: Bradenton

Overview

The Training Program Administrator will support a variety of operational and administrative functions as it relates to the training and development of all First Watch employees. They will act in support of the mission, vision, and values of First Watch Restaurants through all that they do in their role every day. This position will work towards accomplishing stated goals and objectives to achieve desired results while focusing on the long-term profitability of the company.

 


Responsibilities

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

  • Provides general support to the field, owns thetraining@firstwatch.cominbox and responds to training questions according to our established SOPs
  • Takes notes and shares communication during / after department meetings
  • Maintains the tracking and completion of large-scale projects and departmental goals
  • Monitors compliance completions and reporting in the Learning Management System (Schoox)
  • Partners with Home Office Operations, Culinary, and Training partners to ensure accuracy of related LMS content, as well as shape new features and functionality of the LMS and other learning tools
  • Learns & utilizes “the voice” of First Watch in training materials, such as training guides, videos, policy updates and general operational information
  • Makes suggestions to improve orientation and on-boarding practices as it relates to the LMS or ADP
  • Schedules and facilitates Onboarding / Orientation Sessions and in-restaurant training for Home Office employees
  • Maintains all logistics for the national recognition program, including Legacy Pin Program and other recognition communications
  • Communicates compliance report deficiencies with Ops Leadership in the field
  • Manages the upkeep of training documents located in SharePoint / InfoHub
  • Assists with logistics planning of the Leadership Conference, registration, travel, communication, etc.
  • Works shoulder-to-shoulder with the training team to review and update training content and deploy traning materials (as needed) to existing restaurants
  • Monitors the communication and training process for new Managers-in-Training
  • Coordinates Certified General Manager (CGM) / Certified Training Restaurant communication, including announcements, bonus payouts and evaluation surveys completed by Managers-in-Training
  • Reconciles department expenditures – codes expenses to correct departments and/or restaurants
  • Communicates training feedback and handles complaints in a timely and efficient manner

 


Qualifications

  • Minimum one to three years of experience in a service-oriented, hospitality industry such as hotel, resort, restaurant, retail, entertainment venue preferred
  • First Watch Management experience preferred but not required
  • Strong computer skills (Outlook, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.)
  • A passion for learning and the ongoing development of others
  • Able to understand needed knowledge and skills of every position in the restaurant
  • Team player with excellent interpersonal/communication skills – up, down, and across the organization
  • Has demonstrated credibility (garners respect, acts with integrity and keeps commitments), is proactive (has a point of view and takes initiative) and is a good partner (builds relationships and delivers results)

 


Who We Are

First Watch is an award-winning 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 includes elevated executions of classic favorites along with First Watch specialties such as the Quinoa Power Bowl®, Farm Stand Breakfast Tacos, Avocado Toast, Chickichanga, Morning Meditation (juiced in-house daily), Spiked Lavender Lemonade and its signature Million Dollar Bacon. In 2023, First Watch was named the top restaurant brand in Yelp’s inaugural list of the 50 most loved brands in the U.S. In 2023 and 2022, First Watch was named a Top 100 Most Loved Workplace® in Newsweek by the Best Practice Institute. In 2022, First Watch was awarded a sought-after MenuMasters honor by Nation’s Restaurant News for its seasonal Braised Short Rib Omelet and recognized with ADP’s coveted Culture at Work Award. First Watch operates more than 530 First Watch restaurants in 29 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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Regional Talent Director

Location: Bradenton

Overview

The Regional Talent Director will serve as a key business partner and lead the talent management lifecycle in a designated operations division, focused on attracting and hiring a diverse staff of exceptional people. The Regional Talent Director will be a strategic business partner to the VP and RVPs in a division, providing HR expertise to hire the best talent, support a diverse, inclusive work environment and deliver a robust talent pipeline to drive a high-growth, high-performing business model. This is a remote role supporting the South division, and the ideal candidate will reside in Tampa, Jacksonville, or Atlanta.

 


Responsibilities

The essential functions in this job description are not all-inclusive of this position’s duties and responsibilities.  The percent of time spent on each of the responsibilities below will vary based on the talent strengths and opportunities within each respective division.

 

Talent Acquisition

  • Partner with Operation leaders to meet the company’s high-growth staffing goals and enable a high-performing, inclusive culture. Analyze, develop, and implement creative talent acquisition strategies.
  • Lead and facilitate the management interview and selection process with applicants and RVPs/DOs to ensure proactive staffing levels are met through on-time MIT talent acquisition leveraging a balance of internal and external candidates.
  • Conduct weekly calls with RVPs and Directors within respective division to assess current recruiting needs; provide monthly summary recap to VP.
  • Monitor, maintain and assess management rosters with Operations Leadership for succession planning to identify current & future talent acquisition opportunities.
  • Accurately execute all hiring system responsibilities, resume screening, applicant tracking, background checks, candidate communications and new hire administration. Ensures process compliance to minimize company risk and liability.
  • Manage company career sites and Internet job boards, engage in relevant social media / networking strategies to promote an employer-of-choice branding campaign, recruiting agency management, actively promote manager referral programs and utilize other effective recruiting strategies.
  • Establish and advance positive First Watch image with students/faculty at targeted universities with a hospitality program within Division, attend career fairs, conduct live and virtual classroom presentations and live/video student interviews.
  • Develop and implement diversity recruiting strategies to source diverse talent.
  • Develop strong relationships with and deliver professional talent acquisition services to operations clients.
  • Deliver a positive applicant/candidate experience to promote First Watch/You First brand image & reputation.
  • Convey subject matter knowledge on TA related topics to market leaders (e.g. compensation/benefits, relocation etc.).

 

Talent Identification and Retention

  • Serve as a strategic partner to the VP, RVPs and DOs, focused on talent planning.
  • Conduct monthly calls with all Directors and RVPs within respective division to assess current talent. (development needs, flight risks, etc.); provide monthly summary recap to VP.
  • Aid in identifying talent gaps and offering effective solutions that support business objectives (partnering with Training resources). Recommend training enhancements to continuously improve materials and delivery.
  • Support the Talent Review process within respective division; ensure talent assessments within Division are completed in a thorough and timely manner and utilize information to drive targeted training/development and succession planning support.
  • Ensure clear, thoughtful and current succession planning is in place to keep division pipeline strong.
  • Analyze and understand the turnover trends within a division and partner with appropriate Operations leadership to identify the root cause and address retention issues.
  • Assist with the selection and development of NRO trainers in respective division to ensure a talented, diverse pool of trainers is available to support varying NRO needs.
  • Support and monitor the internal promotion process within a division.
  • Maintain communication with new MITs through training to ensure expectations are being met.
  • Provide additional HR support as needed with key market activity.

 


Qualifications

  • Bachelor's Degree in Business, Education, Human Resources or a related field required.
  • Minimum of 5 years of experience in a Recruiting or HRBP role.
  • Multi-unit restaurant, retail or hospitality experience preferred.
  • Deep knowledge of recruiting practices, principles and methods, including interviewing and assessment skills.
  • Talent advisor behaviors/competencies, supported by a solid understanding of the business, external / internal labor market, competitive landscape, and data analytics.
  • Business partner mindset with the experience, credibility and confidence necessary to work with and influence market leaders, HR colleagues, and employees at all levels to deliver results. 

 


Who We Are

First Watch is an award-winning 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 includes elevated executions of classic favorites along with First Watch specialties such as the Quinoa Power Bowl®, Farm Stand Breakfast Tacos, Avocado Toast, Chickichanga, Morning Meditation (juiced in-house daily), Spiked Lavender Lemonade and its signature Million Dollar Bacon. In 2023, First Watch was named the top restaurant brand in Yelp’s inaugural list of the 50 most loved brands in the U.S. In 2023 and 2022, First Watch was named a Top 100 Most Loved Workplace® in Newsweek by the Best Practice Institute. In 2022, First Watch was awarded a sought-after MenuMasters honor by Nation’s Restaurant News for its seasonal Braised Short Rib Omelet and recognized with ADP’s coveted Culture at Work Award. First Watch operates more than 530 First Watch restaurants in 29 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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Supply Chain Analyst

Location: Bradenton

Overview

The Supply Chain Analyst will be responsible for assembling data, analyzing performance, identifying problems, and developing recommendations which support operations and multiple internal business lines while ensuring a high rate of project communication and completion. This position uses analytical and quantitative methods to understand, predict, improve, forecast and/or support chain operations and distribution processes.Must be a self-starter, detail oriented, analytically minded, use critical thinking and be able to support and lead multiple projects. Be able, motivated, and energized to support a global business operating in multiple time-zones and work cross-functionally and cross-culturally with internal and external clients/partners.

 


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.

  • Provide product information JIT for Procure To Pay and Inventory programs
  • Create, improve, and maintain reporting and analytical capabilities to support decision-making using tools like Excel and business analysis tools like Power BI or Tableau
  • Use current visualization tools for process mapping and problem-solving
  • Analyze and optimize service trends: identify patterns of missed opportunities, measure on-going project success and be able to work on continuous improvement in all areas of the supply chain
  • Support finished goods optimization modeling in distribution centers (SKU level, and by distribution location)
  • Identify savings and value opportunities through data analysis and be able to work with internal and external partners
  • Collect, analyze and recommend action to support NRO’s, LTO’s and other strategic projects.
  • Provide supply chain analysis to first and last mile transportation, distribution and ancillary service costs building an end-to-end cost picture
  • Work with Director of Supply Chain to build various reporting and analytics as required (inventory, spend profile, etc)
  • Report out to business leadership - KPI’s, project updates, and business status as needed with consistent accuracy and a sense of urgency
  • Collaborate within the company including Operations, Finance, Accounting, I.T. and suppliers

 


Qualifications

  • Minimum of 3 years of demonstrated success in Supply Chain or Procurement experience specifically in the areas forecasting, inventory management and/or procurement
  • Four (4) year college degree or equivalent 5 years of industry experience in Foodservice and Supply Chain preferred

Who We Are

First Watch is an award-winning 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 includes elevated executions of classic favorites along with First Watch specialties such as the Quinoa Power Bowl®, Farm Stand Breakfast Tacos, Avocado Toast, Chickichanga, Morning Meditation (juiced in-house daily), Spiked Lavender Lemonade and its signature Million Dollar Bacon. In 2023, First Watch was named the top restaurant brand in Yelp’s inaugural list of the 50 most loved brands in the U.S. In 2023 and 2022, First Watch was named a Top 100 Most Loved Workplace® in Newsweek by the Best Practice Institute. In 2022, First Watch was awarded a sought-after MenuMasters honor by Nation’s Restaurant News for its seasonal Braised Short Rib Omelet and recognized with ADP’s coveted Culture at Work Award. First Watch operates more than 530 First Watch restaurants in 29 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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Payroll Specialist

Location: Bradenton

Overview

The Payroll Specialist is responsible for supporting accurate and timely processing of payroll for First Watch employees as well as the people analytics with the oversight of the Payroll Supervisor. The position requires a basic understanding of payroll systems to carry out the principles and standards that support the Company’s business and human resources related responsibilities.

 


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 in the preparation of the biweekly payroll, reviews and processes employee payroll changes
  • Update payroll records and assist the team in preparing payroll for timely processing
  • Answer inquiries directed to the payroll inbox and respond in a professional and timely manner
  • Run audit reports for the field and reach out to managers to correct data flowing to payroll
  • Maintain pay cards for all company restaurants
  • Send garnishment orders to third party vendors for processing
  • Effectively communicate with all levels to establish and maintain positive working relationships
  • Investigate and issue manual check requests
  • Coordinate questions from the field regarding daily tip out procedures
  • Field PTO requests from the field as it relates to their balances
  • Answer questions about payroll matters which require limited policy interpretation
  • Complete forms requiring payroll data
  • Make recommendations for improvements to payroll procedures
  • Assist with year-end reporting, W-2 processing, and annual pay summaries
  • Support the team with special payroll-related projects as needed, including audits

 


Qualifications

  • The position requires a high school diploma and 2+ years of payroll experience with a medium-large sized organization. Degree in a related and supporting field of study preferred
  • Payroll experience in a multi-unit / multi-state restaurant or retail environment strongly preferred
  • Proficient in using HRIS software such as ADP (preferred), UKG or Workday.
  • Knowledge of payroll processes and regulations, including garnishments, payroll conversions, tax and withholding
  • Strong working knowledge of MS 365, (Excel, Word & Outlook), web-based applications & databases
  • Possess and maintain a high degree of confidentiality and professionalism
  • Customer service orientation toward service and building relationships

 


Who We Are

First Watch is an award-winning 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 includes elevated executions of classic favorites along with First Watch specialties such as the Quinoa Power Bowl®, Farm Stand Breakfast Tacos, Avocado Toast, Chickichanga, Morning Meditation (juiced in-house daily), Spiked Lavender Lemonade and its signature Million Dollar Bacon. In 2023, First Watch was named the top restaurant brand in Yelp’s inaugural list of the 50 most loved brands in the U.S. In 2023 and 2022, First Watch was named a Top 100 Most Loved Workplace® in Newsweek by the Best Practice Institute. In 2022, First Watch was awarded a sought-after MenuMasters honor by Nation’s Restaurant News for its seasonal Braised Short Rib Omelet and recognized with ADP’s coveted Culture at Work Award. First Watch operates more than 530 First Watch restaurants in 29 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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Facilities Manager - Southeast

Location: Bradenton

Overview

The Facilities Manager oversees the maintenance of the building and grounds of approximately 100 restaurant locations, assisting the restaurant management team in the oversight, purchasing and upkeep of equipment and supplies. The Facilities Manager works with the operations teams to make sure the building and grounds are maintained, which includes determining and scheduling regular maintenance, repairs and renovation projects. This position must oversee scheduled work as well as negotiate with outside vendors for supplies, repairs and other measures. Area of responsibility: North Florida, Georgia, Tennessee and Carolinas.

 


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.

  • Oversee building projects, maintenance and repair of all restaurant systems, assets and site improvements, including building, parking areas, HVAC, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, utilities and infrastructure systems
  • Implement and monitor proactive preventative maintenance programs for each facility. Monitor improvements to energy efficiency, HVAC, life safety, equipment, grease traps, landscaping, etc.
  • Schedule vendors to perform work in designated restaurants and provide onsite oversight as needed
  • Continually source and re-qualify suppliers. Perform routine assessment of vendor performance, pricing, on-time delivery, specifications, quality of product, workmanship, responsiveness, and issue resolution for the restaurants and other company assets.
  • Serve as lead contact for contracts, contact negotiation, and warranty oversight
  • Contribute to the development and management of facility maintenance capital projects and budgets for restaurants and other related assets subject to purchase, maintenance and repair
  • Under the direction of the Facilities Director, execute all capital projects with time and cost expectations.  Audit and approve invoices for scheduled and negotiated work
  • Coordinate with restaurant management regarding all facilities activity in the building
  • Provide guidance to operations on basic upkeep and maintenance tasks, repair/replace decisions as well as vendor contact and oversight and emergency procedures
  • Respond to calls on a 24-7 basis to promptly resolve urgent needs of facilities at existing restaurants
  • Regularly visit sites to evaluate conditions and identify potential repairs and facility maintenance projects
  • Inform supervisor by written status report and identification of issues requiring escalation or assistance
  • Ensure that restaurants meet government regulations and environmental, health and security standards
  • Execute equipment audits and record-taking policies

 


Qualifications

  • Bachelor's Degree from an accredited college or university or minimum of 10 years of experience as a Facilities Director or Facilities Manager
  • A minimum of 3 years of experience in the food service industry, multiunit restaurant experience preferred
  • Requires minimum 4-6 years related work experience in a multi-unit, commercial building environment
  • Experience managing a budget, reviewing P&L  and vendor management
  • Proficient in procurement and asset management software applications

 


Who We Are

First Watch is an award-winning 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 includes elevated executions of classic favorites along with First Watch specialties such as the Quinoa Power Bowl®, Farm Stand Breakfast Tacos, Avocado Toast, Chickichanga, Morning Meditation (juiced in-house daily), Spiked Lavender Lemonade and its signature Million Dollar Bacon. In 2023, First Watch was named the top restaurant brand in Yelp’s inaugural list of the 50 most loved brands in the U.S. In 2023 and 2022, First Watch was named a Top 100 Most Loved Workplace® in Newsweek by the Best Practice Institute. In 2022, First Watch was awarded a sought-after MenuMasters honor by Nation’s Restaurant News for its seasonal Braised Short Rib Omelet and recognized with ADP’s coveted Culture at Work Award. First Watch operates more than 530 First Watch restaurants in 29 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: Smyrna

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 an award-winning 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 includes elevated executions of classic favorites along with First Watch specialties such as the Quinoa Power Bowl®, Farm Stand Breakfast Tacos, Avocado Toast, Chickichanga, Morning Meditation (juiced in-house daily), Spiked Lavender Lemonade and its signature Million Dollar Bacon. In 2023, First Watch was named the top restaurant brand in Yelp’s inaugural list of the 50 most loved brands in the U.S. In 2023 and 2022, First Watch was named a Top 100 Most Loved Workplace® in Newsweek by the Best Practice Institute. In 2022, First Watch was awarded a sought-after MenuMasters honor by Nation’s Restaurant News for its seasonal Braised Short Rib Omelet and recognized with ADP’s coveted Culture at Work Award. First Watch operates more than 530 First Watch restaurants in 29 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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Tax Manager

Location: Bradenton

Overview

The Tax Manager is responsible for managing the implementation of tax policies and procedures in each tax jurisdiction in which the company operates while remaining in compliance with tax laws and accounting policies. This position will have primary responsibility for the managing of all tax related functions, as well as interface with outsourced vendor providing tax compliance services.

 


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. This job is based out of the Sarasota, Florida corporate office.

  • Manage the accurate and timely preparation and filing of federal, state, and local sales and use tax returns as well as all other areas of tax compliance in adherence with applicable tax laws.
  • Work closely with our third-party tax advisors to manage the accounting for corporate income taxes throughout the year, including gathering all appropriate information and performing a detailed review of year-end provisions prepared by third-party tax advisors and in house preparation of quarterly provisions with the third-party tax advisors providing consultation services.
  • Prepare quarterly and review year-end financial statement tax disclosures in accordance with US GAAP (ASC 740) for financial reporting.
  • Lead, manage, and develop Tax staff member.
  • Review reconciliations and analysis prepared by tax staff member.
  • Ensure compliance with appropriate internal controls for income taxes.
  • Develop a comprehensive understanding of the Company’s business and proactively work alongside Director of Tax Accounting and outsourced vendor on tax consequences of proposed business flow changes.
  • Liaison with Management, Director of Tax Accounting, Tax staff, and Accounting staff on any tax issues.
  • Manage all federal, state, and local tax audits (e.g., income tax, sales and use tax).
  • Work collaboratively with other corporate functions (e.g., internal audit, treasury, finance, licensing, legal, payroll).
  • Manage the retention of tax records and other required reports.
  • Maintain current knowledge of tax laws, updates/revisions, and inform Director of Tax Accounting of issues affecting First Watch.

 


Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s Degree (B.S.) in Accounting. Master’s Degree in Taxation preferred
  • CPA preferred
  • Six + years of related experience with at least 3 years working in a national public accounting firm and/or in a public corporation
  • At least 2 years of manager experience
  • Strong experience in ASC 740 and SEC reporting required
  • Solid understanding of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and Tax regulations
  • Expert-level ability with MS Excel
  • Experience working with third party service providers
  • Experience with ERP systems; Great Plains is preferred

 


Who We Are

First Watch is an award-winning 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 includes elevated executions of classic favorites along with First Watch specialties such as the Quinoa Power Bowl®, Farm Stand Breakfast Tacos, Avocado Toast, Chickichanga, Morning Meditation (juiced in-house daily), Spiked Lavender Lemonade and its signature Million Dollar Bacon. In 2023, First Watch was named the top restaurant brand in Yelp’s inaugural list of the 50 most loved brands in the U.S. In 2023 and 2022, First Watch was named a Top 100 Most Loved Workplace® in Newsweek by the Best Practice Institute. In 2022, First Watch was awarded a sought-after MenuMasters honor by Nation’s Restaurant News for its seasonal Braised Short Rib Omelet and recognized with ADP’s coveted Culture at Work Award. First Watch operates more than 530 First Watch restaurants in 29 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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Senior Accountant

Location: Bradenton

Overview

The Senior Accountant will support a variety of accounting functions with a primary focus on  lease accounting, sales, use and property taxes across the organization -- including numerous state and local jurisdictions - and assisting with account reconciliations and month-end close to support the integrity of financial statements in accordance with US GAAP. This position will also provide technical accounting support and assist the team in preparing for the Company’s external audits.

 


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.

  • Knowledge of U.S. GAAP, specifically Leases, ASC 842; ensuring compliance with ASC 842 as new leases and amendments are executed
  • Perform accounting for and manage the timely and accurate filing of, sales & use and property taxes
  • Understand changes in sales tax and property tax legislation
  • Facilitate any sales and property tax audits
  • Support the timely completion of month-end close process and reconciliations in compliance with U.S. GAAP
  • Work effectively and alongside third-party service providers (consultants, auditors)
  • Maintain a strong internal control environment
    Work collaboratively with other Corporate functions (Development, Operations, Finance)
  • Implement and develop solutions to drive efficiencies
  • Lead and support other accounting related projects and functions as assigned
  • Adhere to Company policies and procedures

 


Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s Degree with a concentration in Accounting/Finance and CPA license required; Master’s degree is a plus
  • Minimum 4-7 years of progressive accounting experience,
  • Excellent understanding of GAAP and relevant financial accounting regulations, specifically lease accounting (Leases, ASC 842)
  • Knowledge/exposure to sales and use tax, property tax and income tax
  • Experience within the retail, restaurant, or similar industry that includes multiple locations in various tax jurisdictions
  • Experience with and understanding of SEC rules a plus
  • Experience with external auditors
  • Advanced Microsoft Excel skills required
    Previous experience with Great Plains a plus
  • Public Accounting experience strongly preferred

 


Who We Are

First Watch is an award-winning 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 includes elevated executions of classic favorites along with First Watch specialties such as the Quinoa Power Bowl®, Farm Stand Breakfast Tacos, Avocado Toast, Chickichanga, Morning Meditation (juiced in-house daily), Spiked Lavender Lemonade and its signature Million Dollar Bacon. In 2023, First Watch was named the top restaurant brand in Yelp’s inaugural list of the 50 most loved brands in the U.S. In 2023 and 2022, First Watch was named a Top 100 Most Loved Workplace® in Newsweek by the Best Practice Institute. In 2022, First Watch was awarded a sought-after MenuMasters honor by Nation’s Restaurant News for its seasonal Braised Short Rib Omelet and recognized with ADP’s coveted Culture at Work Award. First Watch operates more than 530 First Watch restaurants in 29 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 Training

Location: Bradenton

Overview

The Director of Training is responsible for developing and executing comprehensive training programs that align with company brand standards and operational goals. This role will play a crucial role in ensuring that our staff receives the necessary skills, knowledge, and resources to excel in their roles and deliver exceptional customer experiences. The Director of Training maintains a deep understanding of restaurant operations, exceptional leadership skills and a commitment to fostering our You First culture. 

 


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.

 

Training Program Development:

  • Oversee the design, implementation, and continual refinement of training programs for all restaurant positions, including front-of-house, back-of-house staff and leadership positions
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure training programs align with the company’s goals, brand standards, and operational procedures
  • Lead the creation of training materials, manuals, modules, and resources that are innovative, engaging, effective, and in compliance with industry standards

Leadership and Team Development:

  • Lead and develop a team of trainers and content developers, providing guidance and support in their professional growth
  • Foster a positive training culture that emphasizes continuous improvement and excellence
  • Collaborate with HR to identify and address performance issues and recommend appropriate training interventions

Training Delivery:

  • Lead and conduct training sessions, both in-person and through digital platforms, for restaurant employees, managers and multi-unit operators at various locations
  • Assess training needs and tailor programs to address specific skill gaps.
  • Monitor the progress of trainees, provide feedback, and adapt training methods as needed

Continuous Learning and Development:

  • Establish a culture of continuous learning by providing ongoing training opportunities, workshops, and resources for employees at all levels
  • Identify and address skills gaps through targeted training initiatives and personalized development plans

Training Evaluation and Effectiveness:

  • Implement assessment tools and feedback mechanisms to measure the effectiveness of training programs
  • Analyze training data to identify areas for improvement and adjust programs accordingly

Compliance and Regulatory Training:

  • Ensure that all training programs meet industry-specific compliance requirements and adhere to relevant regulations and that materials remain up-to-date

 


Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field (Hospitality Management, Education, Training & Development). Master’s degree or relevant certifications are a plus
  • Extensive experience in restaurant operations and management
  • Proven track record in designing and implementing effective training programs, preferably in the restaurant or hospitality industry
  • Excellent communication and presentation abilities, with a focus on creating engaging and interactive training experiences
  • Proficiency in learning management systems (LMS) and other training-related technology

 


Who We Are

First Watch is an award-winning 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 includes elevated executions of classic favorites along with First Watch specialties such as the Quinoa Power Bowl®, Farm Stand Breakfast Tacos, Avocado Toast, Chickichanga, Morning Meditation (juiced in-house daily), Spiked Lavender Lemonade and its signature Million Dollar Bacon. In 2023, First Watch was named the top restaurant brand in Yelp’s inaugural list of the 50 most loved brands in the U.S. In 2023 and 2022, First Watch was named a Top 100 Most Loved Workplace® in Newsweek by the Best Practice Institute. In 2022, First Watch was awarded a sought-after MenuMasters honor by Nation’s Restaurant News for its seasonal Braised Short Rib Omelet and recognized with ADP’s coveted Culture at Work Award. First Watch operates more than 530 First Watch restaurants in 29 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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Regional VP

Location: Atlanta

Overview

The Regional Vice President (RVP) is responsible for supporting the mission, vision and values of First Watch through all that s/he does in their role every day. The primary purpose is to develop Directors of Operations, General Managers and restaurant teams, build on the Company's You First culture and create memorable experiences for each and every customer. The RVP is ultimately responsible for the success of all First Watch operations within their span of control. The RVP will typically have 3-5 direct reports and is responsible for a span of control of 250 – 500 employees. The RVP will be responsible for revenue operations in excess of ten to twenty five million dollars. This role will provide operational leadership within the assigned region of First Watch.

 


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.

  • Enhances organizational excellence by establishing operational benchmarks, timelines, and resources needed to achieve strategic goals
  • Proactively drives improvements and sets standards for accountability and measurements of success
  • Communicates effectively with management, hourly employees, and customers, providing positive feedback and promoting a positive / You First culture.
  • Fosters diverse and inclusive teams and working environments
  • Ensures the maintenance of a safe and harassment free workplace in all restaurants
  • Trains, coaches and develops Directors of Operations, General Managers and Operations Managers, through timely performance, observation feedback and evaluations
  • Safeguards the Company assets, including funds and collateral, equipment, and the facilities/building
  • Ensures cost effective and customer oriented openings of new restaurants within the area; and ensures a profitable performance as soon as possible in newly opened restaurants
  • Partners with Talent Acquisition team to ensure appropriate managerial staffing levels are maintained at the restaurants, to include growth and anticipated/unanticipated turnover, effectively plans manpower needs, identifies and develops the next DO and General Manager
  • Takes quick and responsible action in investigating and solving problems and uses reason when dealing with individual or staff performance based issues to include personality conflicts
  • Takes a lead role in administering an appropriate level of disciplinary action through the use of Company policies and procedures
  • Supports the senior leadership team by making consistent and progressive steps toward organizational sustainability; effectively communicating work plans and priorities derived from the organization's strategic plan coordinating accountabilities, objectives, and relevant budgets
  • Performs monthly inspections and administrative audits on each restaurant
  • Ensures smooth implementation of company initiatives, menu revisions, and changes to current programs
  • Acts as the administrative liaison between restaurants and the Home Office. Regularly channels communication up through the Vice President of Operations
  • Acts as a brand ambassador to promote First Watch outside the restaurant
  • Ensures compliance with all Federal, local, and state laws

 


Qualifications

  • High School Diploma required
  • Bachelors of Arts – concentration in food & beverage, business, marketing or management is preferred
  • A minimum five to ten years’ experience in a service-oriented, hospitality industry such as hotel, resort, restaurant, retail, entertainment venue preferred
  • A track record of leadership effectiveness, strong business acumen, and a demonstrated history of achieving results through collaboration, strong influence, and communication
  • Hands-on leadership style and ability to prioritize and deliver results in a fast-moving company
  • Ability to work with a level of ambiguity and still make decisions when not all variables are known
  • Strong project management, strategic communications and/or change management skills
  • Management skills in employee relations, recruiting and retention and employee recognition
  • Collaborative problem-solving, people, and time management skills
  • Solid level of competency in computer skills (Microsoft Office) is required
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to present ideas and suggestions clearly and effectively
  • Highly organized, detail-oriented self-starter, and the ability to exercise discretion and independent judgement without heavy oversight
  • Must hold a valid driver’s license and be able to travel as required for company business
  • Flexible and willing to work a varied schedule that could include nights, weekends and holidays as dictated by the needs of the business
  • Passion for providing excellent service and quality

 


Who We Are

First Watch is an award-winning 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 includes elevated executions of classic favorites along with First Watch specialties such as the Quinoa Power Bowl®, Farm Stand Breakfast Tacos, Avocado Toast, Chickichanga, Morning Meditation (juiced in-house daily), Spiked Lavender Lemonade and its signature Million Dollar Bacon. In 2023, First Watch was named the top restaurant brand in Yelp’s inaugural list of the 50 most loved brands in the U.S. In 2023 and 2022, First Watch was named a Top 100 Most Loved Workplace® in Newsweek by the Best Practice Institute. In 2022, First Watch was awarded a sought-after MenuMasters honor by Nation’s Restaurant News for its seasonal Braised Short Rib Omelet and recognized with ADP’s coveted Culture at Work Award. First Watch operates more than 530 First Watch restaurants in 29 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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Accounting Manager

Location: Bradenton

Overview

The Accounting Manager is a key financial professional responsible for ensuring compliance with accounting standards, implementing accounting policies, and providing technical support on accounting issues to staff. This role involves working closely with cross-functional teams, auditors and accounting team members to maintain accurate and timely financial reporting and internal controls.

 


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.

 

Technical Accounting Expertise

  • Stay abreast of evolving accounting standards (e.g., GAAP) and assess their impact on the organization
  • Research, interpret, and implement new accounting pronouncements or changes in regulations (SEC)
  • Provide guidance on accounting issues, collaborate with other departments to address challenges and document memos on technical / complex accounting issues / transactions (may include debt transactions, impairment analysis, cash flow hedge accounting, etc.)
  • Train and support accounting staff on GAAP accounting issues
  • Prepare/review journal entries, internal schedules, account reconciliations, accounting procedures, process memos

Financial Reporting

  • Preparation/review of schedules supporting the financial statements in compliance with applicable accounting standards
  • Preparation/review of financial statement disclosures to ensure compliance with US GAAP

Policy Development and Implementation

  • Develop and implement accounting policies
  • Work with various departments to communicate and educate teams on accounting policies and procedures
  • Ensure staff on the accounting team are aware of accounting policy updates for compliance
  • Monitor and assess the effectiveness of existing policies and recommend updates as needed

Internal Controls

  • Establish and maintain a strong system of internal controls
  • Collaborate with internal audit to identify and address control deficiencies
  • Implement best practices to enhance the effectiveness of internal controls

Collaboration and Communication

  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including finance, treasury, operations, purchasing, etc. to address accounting-related matters
  • Communicate complex accounting issues in a clear and concise manner
  • Work closely with, train and develop accounting team members

Advisory Role

  • Provide guidance on transactions, mergers and acquisitions, and other business initiatives to ensure compliance with accounting standards
  • Evaluate the financial impact of proposed transactions and provide recommendations

 


Qualifications

  • Strong knowledge of GAAP
  • Bachelor's degree in Accounting
  • CPA preferred
  • Public company experience preferred
  • Extensive experience (typically 5-7 years) in accounting roles, with demonstrated progression
  • Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills
  • Effective communication and interpersonal skills
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a dynamic environment
  • Experience with ERP systems and proficiency in Microsoft Excel

 


Who We Are

First Watch is an award-winning 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 includes elevated executions of classic favorites along with First Watch specialties such as the Quinoa Power Bowl®, Farm Stand Breakfast Tacos, Avocado Toast, Chickichanga, Morning Meditation (juiced in-house daily), Spiked Lavender Lemonade and its signature Million Dollar Bacon. In 2023, First Watch was named the top restaurant brand in Yelp’s inaugural list of the 50 most loved brands in the U.S. In 2023 and 2022, First Watch was named a Top 100 Most Loved Workplace® in Newsweek by the Best Practice Institute. In 2022, First Watch was awarded a sought-after MenuMasters honor by Nation’s Restaurant News for its seasonal Braised Short Rib Omelet and recognized with ADP’s coveted Culture at Work Award. First Watch operates more than 530 First Watch restaurants in 29 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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Training Program Administrator

Location: Bradenton

Overview

The Training Program Administrator will support a variety of operational and administrative functions as it relates to the training and development of all First Watch employees. They will act in support of the mission, vision, and values of First Watch Restaurants through all that they do in their role every day. This position will work towards accomplishing stated goals and objectives to achieve desired results while focusing on the long-term profitability of the company.

 


Responsibilities

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

  • Provides general support to the field, owns thetraining@firstwatch.cominbox and responds to training questions according to our established SOPs
  • Takes notes and shares communication during / after department meetings
  • Maintains the tracking and completion of large-scale projects and departmental goals
  • Monitors compliance completions and reporting in the Learning Management System (Schoox)
  • Partners with Home Office Operations, Culinary, and Training partners to ensure accuracy of related LMS content, as well as shape new features and functionality of the LMS and other learning tools
  • Learns & utilizes “the voice” of First Watch in training materials, such as training guides, videos, policy updates and general operational information
  • Makes suggestions to improve orientation and on-boarding practices as it relates to the LMS or ADP
  • Schedules and facilitates Onboarding / Orientation Sessions and in-restaurant training for Home Office employees
  • Maintains all logistics for the national recognition program, including Legacy Pin Program and other recognition communications
  • Communicates compliance report deficiencies with Ops Leadership in the field
  • Manages the upkeep of training documents located in SharePoint / InfoHub
  • Assists with logistics planning of the Leadership Conference, registration, travel, communication, etc.
  • Works shoulder-to-shoulder with the training team to review and update training content and deploy traning materials (as needed) to existing restaurants
  • Monitors the communication and training process for new Managers-in-Training
  • Coordinates Certified General Manager (CGM) / Certified Training Restaurant communication, including announcements, bonus payouts and evaluation surveys completed by Managers-in-Training
  • Reconciles department expenditures – codes expenses to correct departments and/or restaurants
  • Communicates training feedback and handles complaints in a timely and efficient manner

 


Qualifications

  • Minimum one to three years of experience in a service-oriented, hospitality industry such as hotel, resort, restaurant, retail, entertainment venue preferred
  • First Watch Management experience preferred but not required
  • Strong computer skills (Outlook, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.)
  • A passion for learning and the ongoing development of others
  • Able to understand needed knowledge and skills of every position in the restaurant
  • Team player with excellent interpersonal/communication skills – up, down, and across the organization
  • Has demonstrated credibility (garners respect, acts with integrity and keeps commitments), is proactive (has a point of view and takes initiative) and is a good partner (builds relationships and delivers results)

 


Who We Are

First Watch is an award-winning 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 includes elevated executions of classic favorites along with First Watch specialties such as the Quinoa Power Bowl®, Farm Stand Breakfast Tacos, Avocado Toast, Chickichanga, Morning Meditation (juiced in-house daily), Spiked Lavender Lemonade and its signature Million Dollar Bacon. In 2023, First Watch was named the top restaurant brand in Yelp’s inaugural list of the 50 most loved brands in the U.S. In 2023 and 2022, First Watch was named a Top 100 Most Loved Workplace® in Newsweek by the Best Practice Institute. In 2022, First Watch was awarded a sought-after MenuMasters honor by Nation’s Restaurant News for its seasonal Braised Short Rib Omelet and recognized with ADP’s coveted Culture at Work Award. First Watch operates more than 530 First Watch restaurants in 29 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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Regional Talent Director

Location: Bradenton

Overview

The Regional Talent Director will serve as a key business partner and lead the talent management lifecycle in a designated operations division, focused on attracting and hiring a diverse staff of exceptional people. The Regional Talent Director will be a strategic business partner to the VP and RVPs in a division, providing HR expertise to hire the best talent, support a diverse, inclusive work environment and deliver a robust talent pipeline to drive a high-growth, high-performing business model. This is a remote role supporting the South division, and the ideal candidate will reside in Tampa, Jacksonville, or Atlanta.

 


Responsibilities

The essential functions in this job description are not all-inclusive of this position’s duties and responsibilities.  The percent of time spent on each of the responsibilities below will vary based on the talent strengths and opportunities within each respective division.

 

Talent Acquisition

  • Partner with Operation leaders to meet the company’s high-growth staffing goals and enable a high-performing, inclusive culture. Analyze, develop, and implement creative talent acquisition strategies.
  • Lead and facilitate the management interview and selection process with applicants and RVPs/DOs to ensure proactive staffing levels are met through on-time MIT talent acquisition leveraging a balance of internal and external candidates.
  • Conduct weekly calls with RVPs and Directors within respective division to assess current recruiting needs; provide monthly summary recap to VP.
  • Monitor, maintain and assess management rosters with Operations Leadership for succession planning to identify current & future talent acquisition opportunities.
  • Accurately execute all hiring system responsibilities, resume screening, applicant tracking, background checks, candidate communications and new hire administration. Ensures process compliance to minimize company risk and liability.
  • Manage company career sites and Internet job boards, engage in relevant social media / networking strategies to promote an employer-of-choice branding campaign, recruiting agency management, actively promote manager referral programs and utilize other effective recruiting strategies.
  • Establish and advance positive First Watch image with students/faculty at targeted universities with a hospitality program within Division, attend career fairs, conduct live and virtual classroom presentations and live/video student interviews.
  • Develop and implement diversity recruiting strategies to source diverse talent.
  • Develop strong relationships with and deliver professional talent acquisition services to operations clients.
  • Deliver a positive applicant/candidate experience to promote First Watch/You First brand image & reputation.
  • Convey subject matter knowledge on TA related topics to market leaders (e.g. compensation/benefits, relocation etc.).

 

Talent Identification and Retention

  • Serve as a strategic partner to the VP, RVPs and DOs, focused on talent planning.
  • Conduct monthly calls with all Directors and RVPs within respective division to assess current talent. (development needs, flight risks, etc.); provide monthly summary recap to VP.
  • Aid in identifying talent gaps and offering effective solutions that support business objectives (partnering with Training resources). Recommend training enhancements to continuously improve materials and delivery.
  • Support the Talent Review process within respective division; ensure talent assessments within Division are completed in a thorough and timely manner and utilize information to drive targeted training/development and succession planning support.
  • Ensure clear, thoughtful and current succession planning is in place to keep division pipeline strong.
  • Analyze and understand the turnover trends within a division and partner with appropriate Operations leadership to identify the root cause and address retention issues.
  • Assist with the selection and development of NRO trainers in respective division to ensure a talented, diverse pool of trainers is available to support varying NRO needs.
  • Support and monitor the internal promotion process within a division.
  • Maintain communication with new MITs through training to ensure expectations are being met.
  • Provide additional HR support as needed with key market activity.

 


Qualifications

  • Bachelor's Degree in Business, Education, Human Resources or a related field required.
  • Minimum of 5 years of experience in a Recruiting or HRBP role.
  • Multi-unit restaurant, retail or hospitality experience preferred.
  • Deep knowledge of recruiting practices, principles and methods, including interviewing and assessment skills.
  • Talent advisor behaviors/competencies, supported by a solid understanding of the business, external / internal labor market, competitive landscape, and data analytics.
  • Business partner mindset with the experience, credibility and confidence necessary to work with and influence market leaders, HR colleagues, and employees at all levels to deliver results. 

 


Who We Are

First Watch is an award-winning 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 includes elevated executions of classic favorites along with First Watch specialties such as the Quinoa Power Bowl®, Farm Stand Breakfast Tacos, Avocado Toast, Chickichanga, Morning Meditation (juiced in-house daily), Spiked Lavender Lemonade and its signature Million Dollar Bacon. In 2023, First Watch was named the top restaurant brand in Yelp’s inaugural list of the 50 most loved brands in the U.S. In 2023 and 2022, First Watch was named a Top 100 Most Loved Workplace® in Newsweek by the Best Practice Institute. In 2022, First Watch was awarded a sought-after MenuMasters honor by Nation’s Restaurant News for its seasonal Braised Short Rib Omelet and recognized with ADP’s coveted Culture at Work Award. First Watch operates more than 530 First Watch restaurants in 29 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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Supply Chain Analyst

Location: Bradenton

Overview

The Supply Chain Analyst will be responsible for assembling data, analyzing performance, identifying problems, and developing recommendations which support operations and multiple internal business lines while ensuring a high rate of project communication and completion. This position uses analytical and quantitative methods to understand, predict, improve, forecast and/or support chain operations and distribution processes.Must be a self-starter, detail oriented, analytically minded, use critical thinking and be able to support and lead multiple projects. Be able, motivated, and energized to support a global business operating in multiple time-zones and work cross-functionally and cross-culturally with internal and external clients/partners.

 


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.

  • Provide product information JIT for Procure To Pay and Inventory programs
  • Create, improve, and maintain reporting and analytical capabilities to support decision-making using tools like Excel and business analysis tools like Power BI or Tableau
  • Use current visualization tools for process mapping and problem-solving
  • Analyze and optimize service trends: identify patterns of missed opportunities, measure on-going project success and be able to work on continuous improvement in all areas of the supply chain
  • Support finished goods optimization modeling in distribution centers (SKU level, and by distribution location)
  • Identify savings and value opportunities through data analysis and be able to work with internal and external partners
  • Collect, analyze and recommend action to support NRO’s, LTO’s and other strategic projects.
  • Provide supply chain analysis to first and last mile transportation, distribution and ancillary service costs building an end-to-end cost picture
  • Work with Director of Supply Chain to build various reporting and analytics as required (inventory, spend profile, etc)
  • Report out to business leadership - KPI’s, project updates, and business status as needed with consistent accuracy and a sense of urgency
  • Collaborate within the company including Operations, Finance, Accounting, I.T. and suppliers

 


Qualifications

  • Minimum of 3 years of demonstrated success in Supply Chain or Procurement experience specifically in the areas forecasting, inventory management and/or procurement
  • Four (4) year college degree or equivalent 5 years of industry experience in Foodservice and Supply Chain preferred

Who We Are

First Watch is an award-winning 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 includes elevated executions of classic favorites along with First Watch specialties such as the Quinoa Power Bowl®, Farm Stand Breakfast Tacos, Avocado Toast, Chickichanga, Morning Meditation (juiced in-house daily), Spiked Lavender Lemonade and its signature Million Dollar Bacon. In 2023, First Watch was named the top restaurant brand in Yelp’s inaugural list of the 50 most loved brands in the U.S. In 2023 and 2022, First Watch was named a Top 100 Most Loved Workplace® in Newsweek by the Best Practice Institute. In 2022, First Watch was awarded a sought-after MenuMasters honor by Nation’s Restaurant News for its seasonal Braised Short Rib Omelet and recognized with ADP’s coveted Culture at Work Award. First Watch operates more than 530 First Watch restaurants in 29 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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Payroll Specialist

Location: Bradenton

Overview

The Payroll Specialist is responsible for supporting accurate and timely processing of payroll for First Watch employees as well as the people analytics with the oversight of the Payroll Supervisor. The position requires a basic understanding of payroll systems to carry out the principles and standards that support the Company’s business and human resources related responsibilities.

 


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 in the preparation of the biweekly payroll, reviews and processes employee payroll changes
  • Update payroll records and assist the team in preparing payroll for timely processing
  • Answer inquiries directed to the payroll inbox and respond in a professional and timely manner
  • Run audit reports for the field and reach out to managers to correct data flowing to payroll
  • Maintain pay cards for all company restaurants
  • Send garnishment orders to third party vendors for processing
  • Effectively communicate with all levels to establish and maintain positive working relationships
  • Investigate and issue manual check requests
  • Coordinate questions from the field regarding daily tip out procedures
  • Field PTO requests from the field as it relates to their balances
  • Answer questions about payroll matters which require limited policy interpretation
  • Complete forms requiring payroll data
  • Make recommendations for improvements to payroll procedures
  • Assist with year-end reporting, W-2 processing, and annual pay summaries
  • Support the team with special payroll-related projects as needed, including audits

 


Qualifications

  • The position requires a high school diploma and 2+ years of payroll experience with a medium-large sized organization. Degree in a related and supporting field of study preferred
  • Payroll experience in a multi-unit / multi-state restaurant or retail environment strongly preferred
  • Proficient in using HRIS software such as ADP (preferred), UKG or Workday.
  • Knowledge of payroll processes and regulations, including garnishments, payroll conversions, tax and withholding
  • Strong working knowledge of MS 365, (Excel, Word & Outlook), web-based applications & databases
  • Possess and maintain a high degree of confidentiality and professionalism
  • Customer service orientation toward service and building relationships

 


Who We Are

First Watch is an award-winning 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 includes elevated executions of classic favorites along with First Watch specialties such as the Quinoa Power Bowl®, Farm Stand Breakfast Tacos, Avocado Toast, Chickichanga, Morning Meditation (juiced in-house daily), Spiked Lavender Lemonade and its signature Million Dollar Bacon. In 2023, First Watch was named the top restaurant brand in Yelp’s inaugural list of the 50 most loved brands in the U.S. In 2023 and 2022, First Watch was named a Top 100 Most Loved Workplace® in Newsweek by the Best Practice Institute. In 2022, First Watch was awarded a sought-after MenuMasters honor by Nation’s Restaurant News for its seasonal Braised Short Rib Omelet and recognized with ADP’s coveted Culture at Work Award. First Watch operates more than 530 First Watch restaurants in 29 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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Facilities Manager - Southeast

Location: Bradenton

Overview

The Facilities Manager oversees the maintenance of the building and grounds of approximately 100 restaurant locations, assisting the restaurant management team in the oversight, purchasing and upkeep of equipment and supplies. The Facilities Manager works with the operations teams to make sure the building and grounds are maintained, which includes determining and scheduling regular maintenance, repairs and renovation projects. This position must oversee scheduled work as well as negotiate with outside vendors for supplies, repairs and other measures. Area of responsibility: North Florida, Georgia, Tennessee and Carolinas.

 


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.

  • Oversee building projects, maintenance and repair of all restaurant systems, assets and site improvements, including building, parking areas, HVAC, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, utilities and infrastructure systems
  • Implement and monitor proactive preventative maintenance programs for each facility. Monitor improvements to energy efficiency, HVAC, life safety, equipment, grease traps, landscaping, etc.
  • Schedule vendors to perform work in designated restaurants and provide onsite oversight as needed
  • Continually source and re-qualify suppliers. Perform routine assessment of vendor performance, pricing, on-time delivery, specifications, quality of product, workmanship, responsiveness, and issue resolution for the restaurants and other company assets.
  • Serve as lead contact for contracts, contact negotiation, and warranty oversight
  • Contribute to the development and management of facility maintenance capital projects and budgets for restaurants and other related assets subject to purchase, maintenance and repair
  • Under the direction of the Facilities Director, execute all capital projects with time and cost expectations.  Audit and approve invoices for scheduled and negotiated work
  • Coordinate with restaurant management regarding all facilities activity in the building
  • Provide guidance to operations on basic upkeep and maintenance tasks, repair/replace decisions as well as vendor contact and oversight and emergency procedures
  • Respond to calls on a 24-7 basis to promptly resolve urgent needs of facilities at existing restaurants
  • Regularly visit sites to evaluate conditions and identify potential repairs and facility maintenance projects
  • Inform supervisor by written status report and identification of issues requiring escalation or assistance
  • Ensure that restaurants meet government regulations and environmental, health and security standards
  • Execute equipment audits and record-taking policies

 


Qualifications

  • Bachelor's Degree from an accredited college or university or minimum of 10 years of experience as a Facilities Director or Facilities Manager
  • A minimum of 3 years of experience in the food service industry, multiunit restaurant experience preferred
  • Requires minimum 4-6 years related work experience in a multi-unit, commercial building environment
  • Experience managing a budget, reviewing P&L  and vendor management
  • Proficient in procurement and asset management software applications

 


Who We Are

First Watch is an award-winning 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 includes elevated executions of classic favorites along with First Watch specialties such as the Quinoa Power Bowl®, Farm Stand Breakfast Tacos, Avocado Toast, Chickichanga, Morning Meditation (juiced in-house daily), Spiked Lavender Lemonade and its signature Million Dollar Bacon. In 2023, First Watch was named the top restaurant brand in Yelp’s inaugural list of the 50 most loved brands in the U.S. In 2023 and 2022, First Watch was named a Top 100 Most Loved Workplace® in Newsweek by the Best Practice Institute. In 2022, First Watch was awarded a sought-after MenuMasters honor by Nation’s Restaurant News for its seasonal Braised Short Rib Omelet and recognized with ADP’s coveted Culture at Work Award. First Watch operates more than 530 First Watch restaurants in 29 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: Smyrna

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 an award-winning 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 includes elevated executions of classic favorites along with First Watch specialties such as the Quinoa Power Bowl®, Farm Stand Breakfast Tacos, Avocado Toast, Chickichanga, Morning Meditation (juiced in-house daily), Spiked Lavender Lemonade and its signature Million Dollar Bacon. In 2023, First Watch was named the top restaurant brand in Yelp’s inaugural list of the 50 most loved brands in the U.S. In 2023 and 2022, First Watch was named a Top 100 Most Loved Workplace® in Newsweek by the Best Practice Institute. In 2022, First Watch was awarded a sought-after MenuMasters honor by Nation’s Restaurant News for its seasonal Braised Short Rib Omelet and recognized with ADP’s coveted Culture at Work Award. First Watch operates more than 530 First Watch restaurants in 29 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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Tax Manager

Location: Bradenton

Overview

The Tax Manager is responsible for managing the implementation of tax policies and procedures in each tax jurisdiction in which the company operates while remaining in compliance with tax laws and accounting policies. This position will have primary responsibility for the managing of all tax related functions, as well as interface with outsourced vendor providing tax compliance services.

 


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. This job is based out of the Sarasota, Florida corporate office.

  • Manage the accurate and timely preparation and filing of federal, state, and local sales and use tax returns as well as all other areas of tax compliance in adherence with applicable tax laws.
  • Work closely with our third-party tax advisors to manage the accounting for corporate income taxes throughout the year, including gathering all appropriate information and performing a detailed review of year-end provisions prepared by third-party tax advisors and in house preparation of quarterly provisions with the third-party tax advisors providing consultation services.
  • Prepare quarterly and review year-end financial statement tax disclosures in accordance with US GAAP (ASC 740) for financial reporting.
  • Lead, manage, and develop Tax staff member.
  • Review reconciliations and analysis prepared by tax staff member.
  • Ensure compliance with appropriate internal controls for income taxes.
  • Develop a comprehensive understanding of the Company’s business and proactively work alongside Director of Tax Accounting and outsourced vendor on tax consequences of proposed business flow changes.
  • Liaison with Management, Director of Tax Accounting, Tax staff, and Accounting staff on any tax issues.
  • Manage all federal, state, and local tax audits (e.g., income tax, sales and use tax).
  • Work collaboratively with other corporate functions (e.g., internal audit, treasury, finance, licensing, legal, payroll).
  • Manage the retention of tax records and other required reports.
  • Maintain current knowledge of tax laws, updates/revisions, and inform Director of Tax Accounting of issues affecting First Watch.

 


Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s Degree (B.S.) in Accounting. Master’s Degree in Taxation preferred
  • CPA preferred
  • Six + years of related experience with at least 3 years working in a national public accounting firm and/or in a public corporation
  • At least 2 years of manager experience
  • Strong experience in ASC 740 and SEC reporting required
  • Solid understanding of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and Tax regulations
  • Expert-level ability with MS Excel
  • Experience working with third party service providers
  • Experience with ERP systems; Great Plains is preferred

 


Who We Are

First Watch is an award-winning 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 includes elevated executions of classic favorites along with First Watch specialties such as the Quinoa Power Bowl®, Farm Stand Breakfast Tacos, Avocado Toast, Chickichanga, Morning Meditation (juiced in-house daily), Spiked Lavender Lemonade and its signature Million Dollar Bacon. In 2023, First Watch was named the top restaurant brand in Yelp’s inaugural list of the 50 most loved brands in the U.S. In 2023 and 2022, First Watch was named a Top 100 Most Loved Workplace® in Newsweek by the Best Practice Institute. In 2022, First Watch was awarded a sought-after MenuMasters honor by Nation’s Restaurant News for its seasonal Braised Short Rib Omelet and recognized with ADP’s coveted Culture at Work Award. First Watch operates more than 530 First Watch restaurants in 29 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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Senior Accountant

Location: Bradenton

Overview

The Senior Accountant will support a variety of accounting functions with a primary focus on  lease accounting, sales, use and property taxes across the organization -- including numerous state and local jurisdictions - and assisting with account reconciliations and month-end close to support the integrity of financial statements in accordance with US GAAP. This position will also provide technical accounting support and assist the team in preparing for the Company’s external audits.

 


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.

  • Knowledge of U.S. GAAP, specifically Leases, ASC 842; ensuring compliance with ASC 842 as new leases and amendments are executed
  • Perform accounting for and manage the timely and accurate filing of, sales & use and property taxes
  • Understand changes in sales tax and property tax legislation
  • Facilitate any sales and property tax audits
  • Support the timely completion of month-end close process and reconciliations in compliance with U.S. GAAP
  • Work effectively and alongside third-party service providers (consultants, auditors)
  • Maintain a strong internal control environment
    Work collaboratively with other Corporate functions (Development, Operations, Finance)
  • Implement and develop solutions to drive efficiencies
  • Lead and support other accounting related projects and functions as assigned
  • Adhere to Company policies and procedures

 


Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s Degree with a concentration in Accounting/Finance and CPA license required; Master’s degree is a plus
  • Minimum 4-7 years of progressive accounting experience,
  • Excellent understanding of GAAP and relevant financial accounting regulations, specifically lease accounting (Leases, ASC 842)
  • Knowledge/exposure to sales and use tax, property tax and income tax
  • Experience within the retail, restaurant, or similar industry that includes multiple locations in various tax jurisdictions
  • Experience with and understanding of SEC rules a plus
  • Experience with external auditors
  • Advanced Microsoft Excel skills required
    Previous experience with Great Plains a plus
  • Public Accounting experience strongly preferred

 


Who We Are

First Watch is an award-winning 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 includes elevated executions of classic favorites along with First Watch specialties such as the Quinoa Power Bowl®, Farm Stand Breakfast Tacos, Avocado Toast, Chickichanga, Morning Meditation (juiced in-house daily), Spiked Lavender Lemonade and its signature Million Dollar Bacon. In 2023, First Watch was named the top restaurant brand in Yelp’s inaugural list of the 50 most loved brands in the U.S. In 2023 and 2022, First Watch was named a Top 100 Most Loved Workplace® in Newsweek by the Best Practice Institute. In 2022, First Watch was awarded a sought-after MenuMasters honor by Nation’s Restaurant News for its seasonal Braised Short Rib Omelet and recognized with ADP’s coveted Culture at Work Award. First Watch operates more than 530 First Watch restaurants in 29 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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