Assistant Manager

1519 W Chapman Ave, Orange, CA 92868, USA Job Description Posted Monday, June 22, 2026 at 7:00 AM As an Assistant Manager at El Pollo Loco, you’ll be a key player in turning up the heat and driving the fire-grilled experience from behind the scenes. You’ll ensure the restaurant runs smoothly, delivering exceptional service and quality while guiding your team to success and growing yourself as a people leader. Ready to ignite your flamin’ good career? Apply now! POSITION PURPOSE The Assistant Manager works closely with the General Manager to maintain high standards of quality, cleanliness, and customer satisfaction. This position is an important step in the journey toward assuming the responsibilities of a General Manager. It requires a proactive and hands‑on approach, along with a willingness to cross‑train and support various aspects of restaurant operations. Duties include ensuring the restaurant is operated according to all EPL policies, procedures, and standards, as well training and developing restaurant team members. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES In collaboration with the General Manager, monitor and control labor costs through effective labor scheduling, cross‑training, and team member retention initiatives. Responsible for restaurant opening and closing procedures, including security protocols. Coordinate crew tasks for setup, food prep, and cleaning. Conduct inventory checks and update the inventory system. Handle food deliveries, ensuring accuracy in inventory records. Ensure customer service and speed of service metrics meet company goals and standards. Maintain restaurant cleanliness according to EPL and health/food safety standards. Ensure adherence to safety practices and Quality, Service, Cleanliness (QSC) standards. Direct and prioritize team members' tasks during shift. Cover workstations and fill in during team member breaks, as needed. Adjust shift staffing based on sales volume for productivity. Monitor and adjust food production as needed. Welcome customer feedback and address any comments or concerns they may have, using EPL’s Just Say Yes Policy. Ensure that all feedback is communicated promptly to the restaurant management team for swift resolution and continuous improvement. Performs other duties as assigned by management to support restaurant operations. QUALIFICATIONS – EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE, LICENSE/CERTIFICATIONS To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to satisfactorily perform the essential functions of the job. Reasonable accommodation will be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job. The requirements listed below are representative of the education and/or experience required. Education/Work Experience Must be at least 18 years old. High school diploma or equivalent (GED) preferred. Must be certified on all EPL SPECS positions or must have 2‑4 or more years of restaurant supervisory experience. License/Certifications Possess and maintain a valid driver’s license and a reliable vehicle that may be used for company business. Must obtain Serve Safe Certification and pass the EPL Food Safety Audit (FSA) class upon hire. What’s in it for you? Strong culture recognized as a Great Place to Work and driven by our core values: Simple. Together. Relentless. Ownership. Nimble. Growth Competitive pay and quarterly bonuses Great work‑life balance, no overnight shifts Free meal during your shift Employee discount on food Flexible Schedule: Full‑Time Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance* Paid vacation and sick time* Employee Assistance Program Flexible spending, Life Insurance, Legal Insurance, and Pet Insurance* 401(K) Retirement benefit plan with match and immediate vesting* #J-18808-Ljbffr