Restaurant Manager Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the thriving food service industry, the role of restaurant managers has never been more crucial.

As the culinary landscape evolves, the need for skilled individuals who can lead, organize, and maintain our dining establishments grows ever stronger.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a restaurant manager?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to comprehend the true nature of this role,
• A hiring manager formulating the ideal candidate profile,
• Or simply fascinated by the behind-the-scenes of restaurant management,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable restaurant manager job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Restaurant Manager Duties and Responsibilities

Restaurant Managers oversee the daily operations of a restaurant, ensuring that the business runs smoothly and efficiently.

They are often responsible for hiring and training staff, maintaining high standards of food, service, health, and safety, and managing budgets.

The duties and responsibilities of a Restaurant Manager include:

• Recruit, train, supervise and appraise restaurant staff
• Organize and supervise shifts to ensure smooth operations
• Oversee food preparation and presentation to ensure high standards of quality
• Communicate with customers to receive feedback and manage complaints
• Ensure compliance with licensing, hygiene, health and safety regulations/guidelines
• Monitor and control restaurant expenses to ensure profitability
• Manage relationships with suppliers and vendors
• Create detailed reports on weekly, monthly and annual revenues and expenses
• Promote the restaurant through various marketing activities
• Plan menus in consultation with chefs
• Ensure that the restaurant is stocked with necessary supplies at all times

 

Restaurant Manager Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are searching for a dedicated and customer service-oriented Restaurant Manager to join our team.

The Restaurant Manager responsibilities include maintaining the restaurant’s revenue, profitability and quality goals, ensuring efficient restaurant operation, as well as maintaining high production, productivity, quality, and customer-service standards.

Our ideal candidate will have proven work experience in the hospitality industry, be able to manage staff, and ensure customer satisfaction.

The goal is to increase sales and profitability, while maintaining our standards and reputation.

 

Responsibilities

• Coordinate daily front of the house and back of the house restaurant operations
• Deliver superior service and maximize customer satisfaction
• Respond efficiently and accurately to customer complaints
• Regularly review product quality and research new vendors
• Organize and supervise shifts
• Appraise staff performance and provide feedback to improve productivity
• Estimate future needs for goods, kitchen utensils and cleaning products
• Ensure compliance with sanitation and safety regulations
• Manage restaurant’s good image and suggest ways to improve it
• Control operational costs and identify measures to cut waste
• Create detailed reports on weekly, monthly and annual revenues and expenses

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a Restaurant Manager, Restaurant General Manager, Hospitality Manager or similar role
• Proven customer service experience as a manager
• Extensive food and beverage (F&B) knowledge
• Strong leadership, motivational and people skills
• Acute financial management skills
• BS degree in Business Administration; hospitality management or culinary schooling is a plus

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Restaurant Manager
• Work Environment: This role requires a mix of working hours, including weekends, evenings and holidays, in a bustling restaurant environment.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Restaurant Owner or Area Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $45,000 minimum to $60,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Restaurant Manager Do?

Restaurant Managers are responsible for overseeing the efficient running of a restaurant and ensuring customer satisfaction.

They work in establishments that serve food and beverages, which can range from fast-food chains to fine dining restaurants.

Their duties include managing staff, ensuring high-quality food and service, managing budgets, and maintaining safety and hygiene regulations.

They are also in charge of recruiting, training, and supervising staff, which includes chefs, waitstaff, and bartenders.

Restaurant Managers also manage daily operations like ordering supplies and ingredients, planning menus, and dealing with any customer complaints or issues.

They need to ensure that the restaurant meets its profitability and revenue goals, while maintaining a welcoming and satisfactory environment for customers.

They often liaise with suppliers and sales representatives, and may also be involved in marketing and promotional activities for the restaurant.

In addition, Restaurant Managers need to ensure compliance with licensing, hygiene, and health and safety legislation/guidelines.

They also analyze and plan restaurant sales levels and profitability, preparing reports at the end of the shift/week, including staff control, food control, and sales.

Overall, their goal is to ensure a high-quality dining experience that encourages customers to return.

 

Restaurant Manager Qualifications and Skills

An effective restaurant manager should possess a balance of industry experience, technical skills, and interpersonal strengths.

Here are some critical qualifications and skills for the role:

• Leadership and management skills to coordinate restaurant operations, including staff work schedules, quality of service, and inventory management.
• Strong understanding of business management principles, including budgeting, forecasting, and strategic planning.
• Excellent customer service skills to ensure customer satisfaction and handle customer complaints professionally.
• Interpersonal and communication skills to interact with staff, customers, and vendors, as well as to create a positive and productive work environment.
• Problem-solving abilities to handle any operational or staff-related issues that may arise.
• Knowledge of health and safety regulations to ensure the restaurant maintains the highest standards of cleanliness and safety.
• Ability to work under pressure and handle stressful situations effectively, especially during peak dining hours.
• Experience with restaurant management software for scheduling, inventory control, payroll, and reporting.
• Physical stamina to work long hours, often on feet, and ability to handle the physical demands of the job, including lifting heavy items and cleaning.

 

Restaurant Manager Experience Requirements

The position of a Restaurant Manager usually requires a significant amount of experience in the restaurant industry.

Entry-level candidates may have 1 to 2 years of experience, often gained through part-time roles or internships in the restaurant or hospitality sector.

These individuals may have previously held positions such as Server, Host/Hostess, or Assistant Manager, where they gained insights into restaurant operations, customer service, and team management.

This gives them a solid foundation to transition into a Restaurant Manager role.

Candidates with 3 to 5 years of experience in the industry are often considered for Restaurant Manager positions.

They typically have developed their skills in areas such as staff training, inventory management, and customer relations, and may have undertaken some supervisory duties in previous roles.

Those with more than 5 years of experience often have a strong background in restaurant management, including food and beverage knowledge, financial management, and a track record in leading a successful restaurant team.

Candidates with this level of experience may have held the title of Restaurant Manager or Assistant Manager previously and are usually well-prepared for the demands of a managerial role within the restaurant industry.

 

Restaurant Manager Education and Training Requirements

Restaurant Managers generally hold a high school diploma or equivalent, but many establishments prefer candidates with a bachelor’s degree in hospitality, restaurant management, or a related field.

These programs provide students with a strong understanding of the restaurant industry, food safety regulations, customer service principles, and budgeting concepts.

Many universities and colleges also offer certificate and degree programs in restaurant management that can help prospective Restaurant Managers to develop their skills.

In addition to formal education, hands-on experience in the foodservice industry is a crucial requirement for this position.

Many Restaurant Managers start their careers in entry-level roles, such as wait staff or kitchen staff, and gradually move up the ranks.

Some larger restaurant chains also offer management training programs which include a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on training.

While it’s not mandatory, obtaining a certification, such as the Foodservice Management Professional (FMP) certification, can help to show a dedication to the profession and a commitment to staying current on industry trends.

Finally, a successful Restaurant Manager must possess excellent leadership, communication, problem-solving, and customer service skills, which are often honed through practical experience.

 

Restaurant Manager Salary Expectations

A Restaurant Manager can expect to earn an average salary of $54,411 (USD) per year.

The actual income may vary depending on the size of the restaurant, location, years of experience, and the employing company.

 

Restaurant Manager Job Description FAQs

What skills does a restaurant manager need?

Restaurant managers should have excellent leadership and organizational skills, as they are in charge of overseeing all aspects of a restaurant’s operations.

They must also have good communication and interpersonal skills, as they interact with customers, employees, and suppliers.

Problem-solving and decision-making skills are also key, as they must handle any issues that arise during service.

Finally, they should have a good understanding of the food industry and customer service.

 

Do restaurant managers need a degree?

Although not always required, a bachelor’s degree in restaurant or hospitality management can be beneficial.

There are also associate’s degree programs and certifications available in these fields.

However, many restaurant managers work their way up from lower-level positions, gaining experience and learning on the job.

 

What should you look for in a restaurant manager resume?

When reviewing a restaurant manager’s resume, look for previous experience in restaurant or hospitality management.

Look for evidence of leadership abilities, such as managing teams or overseeing operations.

Also, check for any certifications or degrees in related fields.

Skills in customer service, problem-solving, and communication should also be highlighted.

 

What qualities make a good restaurant manager?

A good restaurant manager is a strong leader who can motivate a team and handle stressful situations with ease.

They should be customer-focused, striving to provide the best dining experience possible.

They should also have an eye for detail, as they are responsible for ensuring that every aspect of the restaurant runs smoothly.

Good organization and time-management skills are also key, as the role often involves juggling multiple tasks at once.

 

Is it difficult to hire restaurant managers?

Hiring restaurant managers can be challenging due to the specific set of skills and experience needed for the role.

It’s important to have a clear and detailed job description to attract the right candidates.

Offering competitive salaries and benefits can also help attract qualified candidates.

It’s also beneficial to promote from within, as current employees already know the workings of the restaurant and have proven their dedication and capability.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve unveiled the true essence of being a restaurant manager.

Guess what?

It’s not only about serving dishes.

It’s about orchestrating culinary experiences, one table at a time.

With our comprehensive restaurant manager job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to step up to the plate.

But why hold back?

Plunge further with our job description generator. It’s your next move to creating precisely-worded listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every dish served is a part of the bigger dining experience.

Let’s shape that experience. Together.

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