Restaurant Manager

Job Description

Job Description

Benefits/Perks

• Flexible Scheduling
• Competitive Compensation
• Career Advancement Opportunities
• Health, vision, and dental insurance available after 90 days
• Employee discounts on food, beverage, and retail
• Closed on 8 Major Holidays:
  • New Year’s Day
  • Easter Sunday
  • Memorial Day
  • July 4th
  • Labor Day
  • Thanksgiving
  • Christmas Eve & Day
• Bonus Opportunities
• Paid Training

Job Summary

Thank you for your interest in being a Restaurant Manager at The River Merchant.

Established in 2019, The River Merchant is Kent's premier riverfront restaurant, known for our hospitable staff, crafted beverage program, curated wine selections, and chef-inspired cuisine. We pride ourselves on delivering a memorable dining experience featuring a well designed interior and seasonal patio that overlooks the Cuyahoga River.

At The River Merchant, we are building a cohesive team and seeking a leader who is fully committed to excellence and our shared vision. Our management team is fair, united, and prioritizes mutual respect and integrity over people-pleasing. We expect our managers to lead by example, hold one another accountable, and foster a positive environment by leading from the front.

We are seeking an experienced full-time Restaurant Manager to join our team at The River Merchant. We are seeking a dependable, diligent, and communicative leader who remains calm under pressure and is committed to our team goals. While we require prior experience, we are dedicated to providing ongoing training to ensure success within our specific system.

We value individuals who take ownership of their mistakes and use them as opportunities for growth and collaborative problem-solving. Success in this role requires a dedication to continuous training, constant communication, and a high level of attention to detail—including the importance of learning the names of our employees, vendors, and regular guests.

While we ask that professional responsibilities remain the focus during work hours, we are committed to supporting your personal growth through open and honest dialogue. 

Position Overview:

• Compensation: Starting hourly rate of $25.00, with room for financial and career growth.
• Schedule: Approximately 40–45 hours per week, with flexibility and mutual support among the management team. Shifts include morning (8:30 AM – 4:30 PM), mid (12:00 PM – 8:00 PM), and night (4:00 PM – 12:00 AM).
• Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Lead team in providing exceptional customer service
  • Adhere to all health and safety rules and regulations
  • Develop and coordinate marketing efforts and community events
  • Create a positive work environment built on teamwork and accountability
  • Overseeing daily operations, including service, food quality, and sanitation standards while ensuring consistent excellence through hands-on leadership
  • Managing shifts and addressing staff and guest inquiries
  • Coordinating with departments (kitchen, bar, etc.) to ensure task completion
  • Overseeing proper service, opening/closing procedures, and shift paperwork
  • Professionally resolve issues for both staff members and guests as they arise
  • Support and coach team members to drive performance and growth
  • Collaborate with leadership to maintain company operational standards

Success Standards:

• Create and implement comprehensive training programs for all front-of-house team members, including hosts, servers, bartenders, barbacks, and support staff
• Develop onboarding systems and training materials for new hires
• Conduct regular training sessions focused on hospitality, service standards, sales, communication, product knowledge, and operational excellence
• Observe service execution and provide real-time coaching and feedback

Team Leadership & Culture:

• Hire, coach, mentor, develop front-of-house team members and conduct periodic performance reviews
• Foster a positive, professional, and accountable culture
• Lead by example through visible, hands-on leadership
• Uphold high standards of professionalism, appearance, urgency, and hospitality

Requirements :

• High school diploma/GED
• Previous restaurant management experience
• Reliable transportation to Kent, OH
• High integrity with an excellent attendance record
• Ability to perform physical tasks, including lifting up to 50 lbs. and working in varying temperatures
• Strong strategic thinking, decision-making, and conflict-resolution skills
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills
• Excellent organization and time management abilities
• Familiarity with Microsoft Office, restaurant management software, and POS software
• Passion for hospitality and delivering exceptional guest service
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment

If you believe your goals align with ours and you want to grow alongside the business, we would love to discuss how you can contribute to our team. We look forward to hearing from you!