General Manager

General Manager
Job Type: Full-Time | 50–55 Hours per Week
Industry: Quick Service Restaurant (QSR)
Opportunity: Eligible for Franchise Partner Program   Compensation up to $65k with path to ownership. 

Lead a Restaurant at the Forefront of QSR Innovation

At Steak 'n Shake, we’re blending our rich heritage with bold innovation to redefine what a quick-service experience can be with a relentless focus on hospitality, ensuring every guest feels welcome, valued, and cared for.  As a General Manager, you won’t just manage, you’ll lead from the front. This is a hands-on leadership role for those who take pride in operational excellence, team development, change management and getting results through doing the work, not just directing it.

If you’re a seasoned QSR leader looking to grow into ownership, this could be your pathway. Top-performing GMs are eligible to join our Franchise Partner Program—an opportunity to own and operate your own Steak 'n Shake with long-term financial and personal rewards.

What You’ll Do

Restaurant Leadership & Operations

• Lead by example—actively working the line, prepping food, maintaining cleanliness, and serving guests.
• Wear a professional uniform daily—shirt and tie or collared blouse—setting the tone for team presentation.
• Ensure operational excellence across all shifts: opening, mid-day, and closing.
• Uphold all brand standards, food safety practices, and service protocols.

Financial Performance

• Own the P&L: manage food costs, control inventory, verify invoices, and eliminate waste.
• Drive labor efficiency with smart scheduling, cross-training, and station versatility.
• Proactively monitor and reduce shrinkage through strong controls and real-time coaching.

Inventory & Supply Chain Control

• Oversee inventory from the back door to the front line.
• Conduct regular inventory counts with attention to accuracy and waste reduction.
• Maintain strong vendor relationships and ensure tight invoice and delivery protocols.

Team Building & Development

• Recruit, train, and retain top hourly talent.
• Build a cross-functional team trained across multiple stations to maximize labor productivity.
• Inspire a high-performing culture centered on hospitality, accountability, and consistency.
• Provide clear feedback and coaching tied to operational standards and results.

Performance & Process Management

• Use metrics to drive decision-making: speed of service, food quality, guest satisfaction, and labor costs.
• Reinforce systems and SOPs that create repeatable success.
• Take pride in developing a restaurant that’s clean, efficient, and welcoming.

Job Requirements

• 3 years of QSR or fast-casual restaurant management experience required.
• Proven history of consistent work tenure and reliable leadership.
• Deep understanding of food cost management, labor optimization, and operational KPIs.
• Hands-on leadership—comfortable working the drive through or grill when needed.
• Tech-savvy with POS systems, inventory platforms, and invoice tools.
• Strong physical stamina: can lift 50 lbs., stay on your feet all day, and thrive in a fast-paced kitchen.
• Professionalism that extends to your LinkedIn profile (if you have one) and resume—both should tell the same story.
• Track record in driving hospitality excellence and navigating change in a team setting.

What Success Looks Like

• Your restaurant consistently exceeds goals for costs, guest satisfaction, and cleanliness.
• Your team is engaged, well-trained, and delivers fast, friendly service with pride.
• You maintain a polished, energetic presence—setting the tone every shift.
• Your store becomes a top performer and you’re invited into the Franchise Partner Program.