A Restaurant or Food Service Manager oversees daily operations at a restaurant or an institution that serves meals such as a college or hospital. Hires, trains and supervises food service workers, manages meal and work schedules, supervises supply orders, food preparation and the quality of food and service, and monitors compliance with health regulations.
Full-time Job Overview Santa Maria Latin Tapas is seeking an experienced, proactive, and team-oriented Assistant Restaurant Manager to support daily operations in our casual fine dining dining room. Working closely with the General Manager and executive kitchen staff, you will help lead floor operations, elevate service standards, and foster a warm, high-energy environment centered around Latin hospitality, craft cocktails, and small-plate dining. Key Responsibilities Oversee floor operations during meal services to ensure smooth pacing, elevated hospitality, and prompt resolution of guest needs. Support the recruitment, onboarding, and continuous training of front-of-house staff (servers, bartenders, hosts, and bussers). Maintain high standards of service, cleanliness, and food safety throughout the restaurant. Assist with administrative duties, including staff scheduling, inventory management, labor tracking, and daily POS cash reconciliation. Conduct pre-shift team meetings to review daily specials, menu changes, wine pairings, and service goals. Build strong guest relationships and handle feedback professionally to drive repeat business and positive community engagement. Manage vendor orders, bar inventory control, and floor supplies alongside leadership. Qualifications & Skills 2+ years of management or supervisory experience in casual fine dining or upscale full-service concepts. Proven track record in team leadership, staff development, and maintaining floor presence during peak hours. Solid understanding of restaurant operational metrics (labor management, beverage cost control, inventory). Familiarity with Latin cuisine, craft cocktail programs, and wine service is highly preferred. Proficiency with modern POS systems (e.g., Toast) and reservation software (OpenTable) is beneficial. Strong problem-solving abilities, communication skills, and emotional intelligence. Availability to work full-time hours, including late evenings, weekends, and holidays. Physical Requirements Ability to stand, walk, and navigate a busy floor for shifts of 8+ hours. Capability to lift or move equipment, wine cases, or supplies up to 40 lbs.
