ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Food Operations Manager Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Crying Tiger

Restaurant Operations Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$60K - $90K/yr

RESTAURANT OPERATIONS MANAGER! Lettuce Entertain You Restaurants is looking for a Restaurant ... Lead the opening shift process and perform food ordering, inventory, price updates and recipe build ...

Crying Tiger

Restaurant Operations Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$60K - $90K/yr

RESTAURANT OPERATIONS MANAGER! Lettuce Entertain You Restaurants is looking for a Restaurant ... Lead the opening shift process and perform food ordering, inventory, price updates and recipe build ...

Crying tiger

Restaurant Operations Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$60 - $90/hr

RESTAURANT OPERATIONS MANAGER! Lettuce Entertain You Restaurants is looking for a Restaurant ... Lead the opening shift process and perform food ordering, inventory, price updates and recipe build ...

SSA Group

Food Service - Bartender

Brookfield, IL · On-site

$17/hr

Food Operations Supervisor(s) and Food Operations Manager(s) Responsibilities * Live out 452 Hospitality by delivering warm, welcoming, and memorable experiences for every guest and client. * Oversee ...

Batory Foods

Operations Manager - Oakley

Chicago, IL · On-site

Manages the development and delivery of operational policies, programs and systems including but not limited to Quality, Safety, and food safety regulatory bodies within functional areas. * Develops ...

ViziRecruiter,LLC.

Ad Operations Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$86.32 - $129.48/hr

Introduction Ahold Delhaize USA, a division of global food retailer Ahold Delhaize, is part of the ... Overview The Ad Operations Manager is a critical part of the team; responsible for the strategic ...

16 On Center LLC

Bar & Operations Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$65K - $75K/yr

... and food halls across Chicago and New York. Join the team of one of the country's leading ... Position Summary As the Bar & Operations Manager at Elston Electric , you are responsible for ...

previous page

Showing results 41-60

All JobsFood Operations JobsFood Operations Manager JobsFood Operations Manager Jobs in Chicago, IL

Food Operations Manager information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$33K

$61.5K

$115.9K

How much do food operations manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for food operations manager in Chicago, IL is $61,496.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,900.00 and $63,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a food operations manager do?

A Food Operations Manager oversees the daily operations of food service establishments, such as restaurants, cafeterias, or catering companies. Their responsibilities include managing staff, ensuring food safety and quality, handling budgets, and optimizing operational efficiency. They also coordinate with suppliers, monitor inventory, and ensure compliance with health regulations. Ultimately, they work to deliver excellent customer service while maintaining profitability.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a food operations manager?

To thrive as a Food Operations Manager, you need expertise in food safety, inventory management, budgeting, and staff supervision, often supported by a degree in hospitality or business management. Familiarity with point-of-sale (POS) systems, food safety certifications (such as ServSafe), and scheduling software is typically required. Strong leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills help you motivate teams and resolve operational challenges. These skills ensure efficient operations, regulatory compliance, and high customer satisfaction in a fast-paced food service environment.

What are some common challenges food operations managers face when overseeing multiple locations?

Food Operations Managers who oversee multiple locations often encounter challenges such as maintaining consistent quality standards, ensuring effective communication across teams, and adapting to the unique needs of each site. Balancing inventory, staffing, and compliance with health and safety regulations can also be demanding. Successful managers develop strong organizational systems and foster a culture of accountability to overcome these hurdles and ensure smooth operations.

What is the difference between Food Operations Manager vs Food Service Supervisor?

AspectFood Operations ManagerFood Service Supervisor
CredentialsRelevant certifications (e.g., ServSafe, food safety management)Food safety certifications often required, but less comprehensive
Work EnvironmentOversees multiple locations or departments, strategic planningManages daily operations at a specific location or shift
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in restaurants, catering, hospitality, institutional food servicesCommon in restaurants, cafeterias, catering services
Search & Comparison IntentFocuses on managerial responsibilities, strategic oversightFocuses on operational, staff supervision

The Food Operations Manager typically handles broader strategic planning and oversees multiple units, requiring relevant certifications and experience. The Food Service Supervisor focuses on daily operational management and staff supervision at a specific location. Both roles are essential in the food service industry but differ mainly in scope and responsibilities.

Is a food operations manager a high paying job?

Food operations managers typically earn a competitive salary that varies based on experience, location, and the size of the operation. In general, they earn above average wages compared to many entry-level roles in the food service industry, with higher earnings possible for those managing large or multiple locations. Certifications in management and strong leadership skills can also influence earning potential.

What is a food operations manager?

A food operations manager oversees the daily activities of food service establishments, such as restaurants or cafeterias. They manage staff, ensure food quality and safety standards, control inventory, and optimize operational efficiency, often requiring knowledge of food safety regulations and management skills.

What is the role of a food operations manager in a food operation?

A food operations manager oversees daily food service activities, ensuring quality, safety, and efficiency in food preparation and delivery. They manage staff, control inventory, implement policies, and may use tools like POS systems to optimize operations.

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Food Operations Manager jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Food Operations Manager job openings:

Food Operations Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Food Operations Manager job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,496 per year, or $29.6 per hour.

Restaurant Operations Manager

Crying Tiger

Chicago, IL • On-site

$60K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

About US
Crying Tiger is the celebrated new Southeast Asian concept from James Beard Award Finalist Chef Thai Dang (HaiSous) and Lettuce Entertain You Restaurants. Located in the heart of River North at 51 W. Hubbard Street, Crying Tiger was recently named #1 on Chicago Magazine's Hot List and has earned accolades from Eater, Time Out, and The Infatuation. Our culinary program explores the vibrant flavors of Thailand, Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia and Southeast Asia, featuring a world-class beverage program by Partner Kevin Beary (of Three Dots and a Dash and Gus' Sip & Dip) and desserts by Netflix's School of Chocolate winner, Executive Chef Juan Gutierrez. Join a team dedicated to excellence in one of Chicago's most talked-about new openings.
Overview
Crying Tiger and Gus's Sip and Dip are Hiring Now: RESTAURANT OPERATIONS MANAGER!
Lettuce Entertain You Restaurants is looking for a Restaurant Operations Manager with 2 years of restaurant operations manager experience and a strong understanding of exceptional service standards. We reward our teams with benefits, career-long training and growth opportunities.
A Few of Our Benefits:
  • Competitive Salary
  • Quarterly Bonus
  • Paid Time Off - including Paid Holidays, Personal Days & Vacation
  • 401(k)
  • Blue Cross Blue Shield Medical Insurance
  • Dental & Vision Insurance
  • Life, Accident Protection & Critical Illness Insurance
  • Domestic Partner Benefits
  • Restaurant Discounts
  • Employee Assistance Program - focusing on a commitment to mental health & wellness

Why Work With Lettuce?
Lettuce is a culinary-driven restaurant company with a genuine commitment to our people: we welcome unique perspectives and nurture diverse talents at 130+ locations, supported by our Culture of Caring. If you're ready to be a part of what we do next, then explore your possibilities at Lettuce and apply today!
We participate in E-Verify / Participamos en E-Verify
Responsibilities
  • Lead the opening shift process and perform food ordering, inventory, price updates and recipe build maintenance
  • Oversee and ensure effective back of house systems, receiving and storage including sidework and organization of those areas
  • Organize, run and supervise smooth and efficient daily opening and closing shifts, ensuring an exceptional guest and employee experience
  • Provide guidance and leadership to hourly and management teams while fostering our Culture of Caring
  • Respond immediately and effectively to guest and employee needs and feedback
  • Assist GM in managing costs, driving sales and growing the business in support of financial goals
  • Partner with GM and management team to interview, hire, onboard, train, supervise and develop all BOH employees and teams as needed
  • Perform regular and ad hoc inventories of food, beverage and restaurant supplies and track high cost items; place food, beverage and restaurant supply orders; and accept and inspect deliveries
  • Model and promote teamwork across all teams
  • Use tact and good judgment when dealing with challenges pertaining to guests, vendors and employees, and respond with patience and courtesy
  • Work a variety of days and shifts (including early mornings, late nights and weekends) at multiple sites with or without overnight travel, as needed
  • Move and lift up to 10 pounds, frequently move and/or lift up to 25 pounds, occasionally move and/or lift up to 50 pounds

Qualifications
  • 5+ years of restaurant management experience in a high-volume full-service restaurant
  • 2+ years of experience in back of the house systems and food costing
  • Demonstrates a strong understanding of service excellence
  • Skilled in leading and developing teams
  • Experienced with inventory and BOH systems

Salary Range
USD $60,000.00 - USD $90,000.00 /Yr.

Apply