What are the responsibilities and job description for the Operations Manager position at Waffle House, Inc.?
Company Description Waffle House, Inc. has been serving Good Food Fast® since 1955, growing from a single restaurant in Avondale Estates, GA into a national brand with more than 1,900 locations across 25 states. The company provides career paths for over 40,000 team members and is known for its strong, loyal customer base. Waffle House is committed to serving great food while caring for people on both sides of the counter—customers and associates. The restaurants are open 24/7, offering consistent opportunities for growth in both restaurant operations and corporate support. A strong promote-from-within culture creates long-term career possibilities for individuals who want to build a future in the hospitality industry.
Role Description The Operations Manager is a full-time, on-site role based in Newark, DE, responsible for overseeing daily restaurant operations and ensuring a consistent guest experience across assigned locations. This role includes managing and coaching restaurant leadership and associates, monitoring service quality, food safety, and cleanliness, and enforcing company standards and operating procedures. The Operations Manager will analyze sales, labor, and inventory reports, implement action plans to meet financial targets, and support staffing, scheduling, and training initiatives. The role also involves resolving customer concerns, supporting local marketing efforts, and collaborating with senior leadership on operational improvements. This position requires regular presence in restaurants across the assigned territory, including early mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.
Qualifications
- Proven experience in multi-unit or high-volume restaurant, hospitality, or retail operations management, with the ability to lead and develop diverse teams.
- Strong skills in scheduling, labor management, inventory control, and basic financial analysis (P&L review, budgeting, and cost management).
- Excellent communication, conflict resolution, and customer service skills, with a focus on building positive relationships with guests and team members.
- Ability to train, coach, and mentor supervisors and associates to meet performance, safety, and quality standards.
- Demonstrated strength in problem-solving, decision-making under pressure, and handling fast-paced, changing environments.
- Familiarity with food safety, regulatory compliance, and workplace safety practices in a restaurant or foodservice setting.
- High school diploma or equivalent required; associate’s or bachelor’s degree in Business, Hospitality Management, or a related field is preferred.
- Comfort with basic technology tools (point-of-sale systems, scheduling software, and standard office applications).
- Ability to work a flexible schedule, including nights, weekends, and holidays, and to travel between locations in the Newark, DE area as needed.
- Valid driver’s license and reliable