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 $65k 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.
What You’ll Do
Restaurant Leadership & Operations
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.Financial Performance
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.Inventory & Supply Chain Control
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.Team Building & Development
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.Performance & Process Management
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.Job Requirements
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 LinkedIn 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.What Success Looks Like
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. We use eVerify to confirm U.S. Employment eligibility. Read LessTeam Member – Steak ’n Shake - Paying up to $16.25 per hour!
More Than a Job – Be Part of the Steak ’n Shake Legacy
At Steak ’n Shake, being a Team Member means more than serving fresh burgers and hand-dipped milkshakes—it’s about delivering genuine hospitality, bringing energy to every shift, and being part of a team that’s shaping the future of quick-service dining. We’ve been perfecting our craft since 1934, and today we’re blending tradition with innovation—self-order kiosks, controlled pour beverage systems, Bitcoin payment, and a return to beef tallow cooking for unbeatable flavor.
When you join Steak ’n Shake, you join a team where every guest matters, every meal matters, and every team member matters.
Why You’ll Love Working Here
A fun, high-energy environment where your work makes a real differenceFlexible scheduling optionsLearn first-hand from experienced LeadersCareer growth and development opportunitiesWe are a Maximum Wage Employer—we hire the best and pay the bestBenefits*
Medical/RxHSA with Employer ContributionDentalVisionLife & DisabilityHospital IndemnityCritical IllnessAccident401(k) with 4% Employer Safe-Harbor Match (age 18 & older)Perks
Flexible SchedulingMeal DiscountsEmployee Assistance ProgramPaid TrainingDiscount ProgramAssociate Emergency Foundation* Benefits are subject to service and/or ACA eligibility requirements
What You’ll Do
Greet every guest with a genuine smileCreate and maintain friendly eye contactSpeak with enthusiasm and warmthBuild real connections with guests to make them feel valuedRepresent and uphold the vision and values of Steak ’n ShakeTake orders accurately and efficiently (including kiosk assistance)Work well with your team to keep service fast and friendlyStay adaptable, dependable, and focused during busy shiftsFollow all brand standards for food safety, cleanliness, and dress codeStand and work on your feet for several hours at a timeWhat We’re Looking For
Consistency and reliability—you show up ready to work every shiftPositive, cheerful attitudePassion for serving and helping othersStrong customer service skillsTeam-oriented mindset with great interpersonal skillsDetail-oriented and able to multitaskWorks well independently and in a fast-paced team settingFlexible schedule availabilityAbility to lift and carry up to 50 lbs regularlyAbility to stand for extended periodsIf you’re ready to bring great food, great service, and great energy to every shift, apply today and see why Steak ’n Shake continues to set the standard in premium burgers and shakes.
We use eVerify to confirm U.S. Employment eligibility. Read LessSTEAK N SHAKE IS HIRING MANAGERS looking to MAKE A DIFFERENCE! Paying up to $17.25 per hour!
We have exciting times ahead! What we sell is an experience. We are looking for passionate people with a fun-loving attitude who provide a hospitable service.
YOU:
Demonstrate the Golden Rule
Have a competitive spirit and desire to win
A track record of proven leadership
Possess high character and high competence
Desire to improve the lives of others
US:
Desire to improve the lives of employees, customers, franchisees
Committed to you and your successful journey
We place trust above all else. This builds loyalty
Determined to be the employer of choice, placing employees first. We seek to be the maximum wage employer.
Desire to lead and dominate the premium burger segment of the restaurant industry
Our pace is fast, focused, and effective
STEAK N SHAKE SHIFT MANAGER DESCRIPTION:
The Shift Manager reports directly to the General Manager. They assist in the day-to-day responsibilities of managing the restaurant, directing the employees, ensuring guest satisfaction and thereby demonstrating the Gold Standard in service. They will partner with the General Manager to meet the business and strategic objectives of the organization. The sky is the limit for those seeking to make a difference in this world!
Benefits & Perks
Employee discount, Employee assistance program, Paid Training
Qualifications
US work authorization (Required)
High school or equivalent (Preferred)
Driver's License (Preferred)
SOUND LIKE A GREAT PARTNERSHIP? CLICK NOW TO APPLY!!
