Assistant Manager

Assistant ManagerJoin the Playa Bowls team in Bay Head, NJ. This is an on-site, full-time, non-exempt position with minimal local travel. The Assistant Manager supports daily shop operations and helps create a vibrant, welcoming environment for both team members and guests.Role PurposeWe're looking for a positive, enthusiastic, people-oriented Assistant Manager who brings a passion for superfoods, healthy living, and fruit. Working closely with the General Manager, the Assistant Manager supports daily shop operations and helps create a vibrant, welcoming environment for both team members and guests, from training and mentoring new staff to resolving operational challenges with a strategic, solutions-focused mindset.Key ResponsibilitiesChecks products to ensure consistency, palatability, and quality.Investigates and resolves complaints regarding food quality, service, and accommodations.Monitors food preparation methods, portion sizes, garnishing, and presentation to ensure alignment with company standards.Performs food preparation or service tasks as needed, including prepping, clearing tables, and serving food and drinks.Schedules staff hours using appropriate systems/software and assigns duties to ensure economical use of food and timely preparation.Organizes and directs worker training programs, resolves personnel problems, and evaluates employee performance.Assesses staffing needs and recruits new hires using company methods such as ADP WFN, advertisements, or job fairs.Fills in for the General Manager during extended absences.Reviews work procedures and operational problems to identify ways to improve service, performance, or safety.Schedules and receives food and beverage deliveries, verifying product quality and quantity.Maintains food and equipment inventories and keeps inventory records.Monitors compliance with health and fire regulations related to food preparation, service, and building maintenance.Adheres to company opening and closing procedures and maintains accompanying records.Orders and purchases product, equipment, and supplies.Arranges for equipment maintenance and repairs, and coordinates services such as waste removal and pest control.Utilizes the POS system, operates the cash register, and makes bank deposits.Completes business or government forms, and maintains records, reports, and safety files.Key RelationshipsInternal Partners: General Manager, Shift Leaders, Team Members, Area Manager. External Partners: Vendors & Suppliers, Guests.Measures of SuccessProduct quality: Food consistently meets Playa Bowls' standards for taste, presentation, and portioning.Team development: Staff are trained, scheduled effectively, and supported in their growth.Compliance: Shop consistently meets health, fire, and food safety regulations.Operational continuity: Shop runs smoothly in the General Manager's absence.Inventory & vendor management: Supplies and equipment are ordered, maintained, and tracked accurately.Experience & QualificationsRequiredProven experience in a supervisory or managerial role, preferably in a fast-paced food service or retail environment.A valid driver's license and reliable transportation.Strong customer service skills, with a passion for creating positive guest experiences.Working knowledge of supply chain and inventory processes.Familiarity with personnel management and basic human resources responsibilities.Excellent communication and active listening skills.Strong critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.Must pass the ServSafe certification within 3 months of employment.PreferredA collaborative, team-first mindset with a willingness to jump in wherever needed.A positive attitude and a great sense of fun.Role-Specific ExpertiseFood quality and presentation standardsStaff scheduling and trainingInventory and vendor managementPOS operation and cash handlingHealth and safety complianceRecruiting and onboarding supportPosition RequirementsMust pass the ServSafe certification within 3 months of employment.Must be able to work a minimum of 30 hours per week.Must be available to work weekends.Must be able to remain in a stationary position for prolonged periods of time.Must be able to lift or otherwise move 25–40 pounds occasionally.Must be able to retrieve items from high and low shelving, the fridge/freezer, and under counters.About Playa BowlsPlaya Bowls is New Jersey's Original Acai Shop, founded in 2014. Our mission is to bring superfruit bowls to the masses using only the freshest, highest-quality ingredients while providing a fantastic in-store brand experience. What began with a pair of blenders, a patio table, and a fridge has flourished into a 400+ unit operator and franchisor of a leading fast-casual restaurant concept. Playa Bowls added 85 locations in 2025 and is on target to add 90+ new locations in 2026. Our continued rapid growth has created an opportunity for a leader who will help us continue to grow our brand.OUR MISSION: Inspire and support our communities one bowl at a time.OUR VALUES: Real Deal • Playa Passion • Powerhouse • Big Wave Chaser • Dawn PatrolUnique Benefits of Working at Playa BowlsA cleaner, more refreshing shift: Playa Bowls shops run on blenders, refrigerators, and freezers instead of fryers and grills.A different kind of environment: Bright, casual shops with a relaxed dress code — more oasis than traditional fast-food kitchen.Real growth potential: Hands-on leadership experience and a clear path toward General Manager and beyond.Real, comprehensive benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision, a 401(k) with company match for employees that work a minimum of 30 hours a week, not something every QSR concept offers its shop leaders. At Playa, it's built in from day one.Playa Perks: Shift and off-the-clock discounts, a competitive hourly wage plus credit card and cash tips, and a fun, high-energy culture where you can work hard, have fun, and be part of a great team.Equal Opportunity EmployerPlaya Bowls is an equal opportunity employer, and all aspects of employment, including the decision to hire, promote, discipline, or discharge, will be based on merit, competence, performance, and business needs. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, marital status, age, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, pregnancy, genetic information, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran status, or any other status protected under federal, state, or local law.