What are the responsibilities and job description for the Assistant Manager - Restaurant position at Panera Bread?
Lead with Purpose. Grow with Structure. Thrive in a Healthy Culture.
Ready to take your leadership career to the next level in a fast-paced, high-energy environment built on purpose and structure?
At Panera Bread, our mission is simple: “To elevate everyday meals into moments of comfort, connection, and joy”
We believe food should be good and good for you. We believe work should be structured, supportive, and growth focused.
And we believe leaders should be hands-on, present, and committed to building strong teams.
As a Manager in our franchise organization with a strong corporate backbone, every process we follow is intentional. Every system is proven. Every leader is developed with purpose.
If you’re a structured, hands-on leader who thrives in a healthy, organized environment — we want to meet you.
What You’ll Do:
Lead From the Front
Our managers are fully hands-on. You’ll work side-by-side with your team in production, prep, dining, baking, and guest service. We don’t lead from the office — we lead from the floor.
Drive Operational Excellence
- Oversee daily café operations
- Maintain food quality and safety standards
- Keep the team operating at peak performance
Develop People with Purpose
- Provide structured onboarding and training
- Coach and mentor team members
- Deliver clear expectations and consistent feedback
- Build future leaders through accountability and support
Foster a Healthy Work Environment
- Promote positivity, respect, and teamwork
- Maintain a clean, organized café
- Create a culture where people feel supported and valued
- Encourage work-life balance within a structured schedule
Compensation & Schedule:
- Hourly Paid
- Full Time 40-45 hours a week pending on position
- Operating hours: 5 AM – 11 PM
- No overnight shifts
Our leadership roles are designed with balance in mind — structure creates stability.
Why You’ll Love Working Here:
Clear Growth Path
We believe in performance-based growth. Raises and promotions are performance-based.
Upper-Level Support
You’ll never wonder what to do next. Expectations, processes, and tools are clearly defined.
Healthy Brand, Healthy Culture
You’ll represent a company known for clean ingredients, fresh food, and an environment focused on well-being — for both guests and team members.
Hands-On Training
We don’t “throw you in.” We train you thoroughly, support you consistently, and develop you intentionally.
What We’re Looking For:
- Previous management or supervisory experience (restaurant or production-based preferred)
- Strong, structured leadership style
- Hands-on mentality — you enjoy working alongside your team
- Passion for coaching and mentoring
- Open availability within operating hours (5 AM – 11 PM)
- Reliable transportation (valid driver’s license & vehicle)
- Strong communication skills
- Positive mindset
- Must be at least 18 years of age
Our Values at Panera
We live our values every day:
- Own It – Take responsibility and lead with accountability.
- Win Together – Build strong teams and support one another.
- Be Kind – Treat everyone with respect and compassion.
- Rise Above – Stay positive, resilient, and growth-focused.
If you’re looking for a supportive and growth-driven environment where leadership is hands-on and culture truly matters, this is your opportunity. Apply Today
Lead with purpose. Grow with structure. Build something meaningful at Panera.
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Panera Bread is growing with more than 2000 Bakery-Cafes in the US, it's no wonder our company has been an excellent source of career and personal growth opportunities for more than 25 years! As a Franchisee of Panera Bread, Covelli Enterprises owns and operates 300 locations and employs more than 25,000 people! We value our employees and ensure our people are well trained for them to be successful in their roles with our company!