General Manager

Overview

General Manager
Job Type: Full-Time | 50–55 Hours per Week
Industry: Quick Service Restaurant (QSR)
Opportunity: Eligible for Franchise Partner Program Compensation up to $70k with path to ownership

Lead a Restaurant at the Forefront of QSR Innovation

At Steak 'n Shake
, we’re blending our rich heritage with bold innovation to redefine what a quick-service experience can be with a relentless focus on hospitality, ensuring every guest feels welcome, valued, and cared for. As a General Manager
, you won’t just manage, you’ll lead from the front. This is a hands-on leadership role for those who take pride in operational excellence, team development, change management and getting results through doing the work, not just directing it.

If you’re a seasoned QSR leader looking to grow into ownership, this could be your pathway. Top-performing GMs are eligible to join our Franchise Partner Program
—an opportunity to own and operate your own Steak 'n Shake with long-term financial and personal rewards.

• Lead by example—actively working the line, prepping food, maintaining cleanliness, and serving guests.
• Wear a professional uniform daily—shirt and tie or collared blouse—setting the tone for team presentation.
• Ensure operational excellence across all shifts:
  opening, mid-day, and closing.
• Uphold all brand standards, food safety practices, and service protocols.

• Own the P&L: manage food costs, control inventory, verify invoices, and eliminate waste.
• Drive labor efficiency with smart scheduling, cross-training, and station versatility.
• Proactively monitor and reduce shrinkage through strong controls and real-time coaching.

• Oversee inventory from the back door to the front line
  .
• Conduct regular inventory counts with attention to accuracy and waste reduction.
• Maintain strong vendor relationships and ensure tight invoice and delivery protocols.

• Recruit, train, and retain top hourly talent
  .
• Build a cross-functional team trained across multiple stations to maximize labor productivity.
• Inspire a high-performing culture centered on hospitality, accountability, and consistency
  .
• Provide clear feedback and coaching tied to operational standards and results.

• Use metrics to drive decision-making:
  speed of service, food quality, guest satisfaction
  , and labor costs
  .
• Reinforce systems and SOPs that create repeatable success.
• Take pride in developing a restaurant that’s clean, efficient, and welcoming.

• 3+ years of QSR or fast-casual restaurant management experience required.
• Proven history of consistent work tenure and reliable leadership.
• Deep understanding of food cost management
  , labor optimization
  , and operational KPIs.
• Hands-on leadership—comfortable working the drive through or grill when needed.
• Tech-savvy with POS systems
  , inventory platforms, and invoice tools.
• Strong physical stamina: can lift 50 lbs., stay on your feet all day, and thrive in a fast-paced kitchen.
• Professionalism that extends to your Linked In profile (if you have one) and resume
  —both should tell the same story.
• Track record in driving hospitality excellence and navigating change in a team setting.

• Your restaurant consistently exceeds goals for costs, guest satisfaction, and cleanliness
  .
• Your team is engaged, well-trained, and delivers fast, friendly service with pride.
• You maintain a polished, energetic presence
  —setting the tone every shift.
• Your store becomes a top performer and you’re invited into the Franchise Partner Program
  .

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