Future Restaurant Leader

Job Title: Floor Leader (Management Apprenticeship Program)
Reports to: Management Team
FLSA: Non-Exempt

SUMMARY

Are you ready to take the next step in your restaurant career? The Floor Leader role at Winking Lizard is more than just a shift leader—it's a structured apprenticeship program designed to prepare you for a full-time management position.

As a Floor Leader, you’ll work side-by-side with our seasoned management team to learn the ins and outs of restaurant operations, leadership, and team development. Through hands-on experience, personalized coaching, and real-time training, you'll build the skills and confidence needed to thrive as a future leader within our organization.

WHAT YOU’LL GAIN

• Real-world management training in a high-energy, team-focused environment
• Ongoing leadership development and coaching from experienced managers
• Exposure to every area of restaurant operations—from the kitchen to the front of house
• A clear career path with the opportunity to grow into a full-time salaried management role

CORE RESPONSIBILITIES

Leadership & Training

• Lead by example, promoting a strong service culture and a commitment to excellence
• Coach and mentor team members throughout each shift, developing both technical and leadership skills
• Encourage and recognize strong performance through initiatives like Lizard-2-Lizard recognition
• Help foster a positive, fair, and inclusive workplace where team members feel supported and motivated

Operations & Guest Experience

• Assist in managing daily operations, including opening and closing procedures, staff phasing, and shift transitions
• Confidently step into any role in the restaurant as needed—from hosting to expediting to kitchen support
• Address guest concerns with professionalism and a problem-solving mindset
• Monitor food quality, ticket times, cleanliness, and safety protocols to ensure a top-notch experience for every guest

Manager-In-Training Responsibilities

• Develop proficiency in the POS system for comps, voids, and shift transactions
• Support inventory management, deliveries, and back-office systems under manager guidance
• Help check out closing staff and ensure proper shift wrap-up
• Learn and uphold Winking Lizard standards, policies, and procedures—preparing to one day enforce them as a manager

WHO YOU ARE

You’re ambitious, reliable, and passionate about hospitality. You’re ready to lead but eager to learn. You want more than a job—you want a career. And you’re not afraid to work hard, think big, and grow with a company that’s invested in your future.

WORKING CONDITIONS

• Shift Length: Varies, including 10+ hour shifts
• Environment: Fast-paced with exposure to loud noise, hot/cold temperatures, wet floors
• Movement: Frequent standing, walking, and multitasking in a dynamic team environment

READY TO LEAD?

If you’re looking for a stepping stone into restaurant management, the Floor Leader Apprenticeship Program is your launchpad. Join a company that believes in growing its leaders from within—and start your journey toward a full-time management career at Winking Lizard.

Required qualifications:

• Legally authorized to work in the United States

Preferred qualifications:

• 20 years or older