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Leadership Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Chick-fil-A

Leadership

Rowland Heights, CA · On-site

$15.75 - $20.75/hr

Leadership Positions: Highly motivated people needed for day and evening leadership positions. Must be: * Team player * Personable * Proactive * Focused * Organized * Great Communication skill * Give ...

Northgate Gonzalez

Store Leadership

Anaheim, CA

$78K/yr

The Assistant Store Team Leader is responsible to assist the Store Team Leader in overseeing daily store operations and provide overall leadership and direction to achieve profitable operation of the ...

Wingstop

$17 - $24/hr

We are looking for excellent leaders to supervise the operations of our restaurants to ensure that food safety, product preparation, cleanliness, and company standards are maintained. This includes ...

Wingstop

$17 - $24/hr

We are looking for excellent leaders to supervise the operations of our restaurants to ensure that food safety, product preparation, cleanliness, and company standards are maintained. This includes ...

Serval Inc

Engineering Leadership

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$250K - $400K/yr

We're backed by leading investors including Sequoia Capital, Redpoint Ventures, Meritech, First Round, General Catalyst, Elad Gil, and others. Role Overview As an engineering leader at Serval, you'll ...

Wingstop

Leadership positions

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$19 - $22/hr

We are looking for excellent leaders to supervise the operations of our restaurants to ensure that food safety, product preparation, cleanliness, and company standards are maintained. This includes ...

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All JobsLeadership JobsLeadership Jobs in California

Leadership information

See California salary details

$61.2K

$141.1K

$240.8K

How much do leadership jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for leadership in California is $141,068.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $90,300.00 and $184,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is leadership?

Leadership is the ability to guide, inspire, and influence individuals or groups to achieve common goals. It involves setting a vision, making strategic decisions, and motivating others to perform at their best. Effective leaders communicate clearly, demonstrate integrity, and foster a positive environment where team members can thrive. Leadership can be exhibited at any level within an organization and is not limited to those in formal management positions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a leadership role?

To thrive in a leadership role, you need a strong foundation in strategic thinking, decision-making, and team management, often supported by relevant experience or a degree in management or business. Familiarity with project management tools, performance tracking systems, and, in some cases, formal leadership certifications like PMP or Six Sigma is valuable. Exceptional communication, emotional intelligence, and the ability to inspire and motivate others set standout leaders apart. These skills and qualifications are crucial for driving organizational success, fostering collaboration, and effectively guiding teams through challenges.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals stepping into a leadership role for the first time?

First-time leaders often face challenges such as balancing the transition from peer to supervisor, managing team dynamics, and delegating tasks effectively. They may also encounter difficulties in providing constructive feedback, setting clear expectations, and motivating diverse team members. Building trust and credibility while learning to handle conflicts diplomatically are essential skills that develop over time. Organizations typically support new leaders with mentorship, training programs, and clear communication channels to help them succeed.

What is the difference between Leadership vs Project Manager?

AspectLeadershipProject Manager
Primary FocusGuiding teams, setting vision, motivatingPlanning, executing, and completing projects
Required SkillsCommunication, vision-setting, motivationOrganization, scheduling, risk management
Work EnvironmentLeadership roles often span multiple projects or departmentsProject-specific teams and timelines
CertificationsLeadership training, sometimes MBA or relatedPMP, PRINCE2, or similar project management certifications

Leadership involves guiding and inspiring teams to achieve goals, focusing on vision and motivation. Project Managers concentrate on planning, executing, and completing specific projects within set parameters. While leadership skills are essential for both roles, Leadership emphasizes strategic vision, whereas Project Managers focus on operational execution.

What jobs are in leadership?

Jobs in leadership include roles such as managers, directors, executives, team leads, and department heads. These positions typically require strong communication, decision-making skills, and experience in managing teams or projects. Leadership roles are found across various industries and often involve strategic planning and organizational oversight.

What are the most commonly searched types of Leadership jobs in California?

The most popular types of Leadership jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Leadership jobs?

Cities in California with the most Leadership job openings:

Leadership jobs near you
Infographic showing various Leadership job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 89% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $141,068 per year, or $67.8 per hour.

Leadership Development Accelerator

Chick-fil-A

Escondido, CA

$24 - $40/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 22 days ago

Chick-fil-A rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 7,612 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

15th of 106 rated fast food restaurants

Job description

Executive Overview: The Path to Ownership

The Chick-fil-A Leadership Accelerator at Chick-fil-A in Escondido on Centre City Parkway is a leadership accelerator designed specifically for high-potential college graduates and emerging leaders who aspire to become a Chick-fil-A Franchisee (Owner/Operator) or Business Owners in the local community.

Becoming a Chick-fil-A Operator is one of the most competitive entrepreneurial opportunities in the business sector. Launching your own business is incredibly challenging and requires experience leading at the highest level to succeed. Our commitment is to provide you with the operational, financial, and relational wisdom required to lead a multi-million dollar business. You will work directly with our local Operator and senior Executive Team to master the Chick-fil-A model from the ground up.

The Developmental Journey

The accelerator is structured as a progression, moving from tactical mastery to strategic influence. Areas of focus include:

  • Operational Excellence: Mastering the \Winning Hearts Every Day\ strategy.
  • Financial Stewardship: P&L management, labor optimization, and food cost gaps.
  • Talent Coaching: Recruitment, \Selecting Top Talent,\ and developing a high-performance culture.
  • Strategic Growth: Leveraging customer data, marketing platforms, and LEAN methodology to scale results.
  • Compliance & Risk: Deep dives into HR, California labor law, and safety protocols.
What We Look For (The Candidate Profile)

We are seeking \Level 5 Leaders\ who possess a rare blend of Humility and Professional Drive.

  • Growth Mindset: You view feedback as a gift and obstacles as opportunities.
  • Mission Alignment: You embody our C.A.R.E. values of Consistency, Accountability, Resiliency, and Empowerment.
  • Servant Leadership: You aren't afraid to get your hands dirty on the front lines while maintaining a strategic bird's-eye view.
  • Emotional Intelligence: You demonstrate high discernment and the ability to navigate complex interpersonal dynamics.
Requirements to Apply
  • Academic Foundation: A completed Bachelor’s degree (preferred) or 3+ years of significant management experience.
  • Full Availability: 40+ hours per week, including Saturdays.
  • Entrepreneurial Spirit: A clear desire to pursue Chick-fil-A ownership or high-level organizational leadership.
  • Integrity: A track record of making ethical decisions under pressure.
  • Mobility: A driver’s license and reliable transportation.
The \Accelerator\ Advantage (Benefits)
  • Direct Mentorship: Monthly 1v1 sessions with the Operator to review goals and performance.
  • Competitive Compensation: A sliding scale that grows as your level of responsibility increases.
  • Educational Resources: Access to the Leadwell Leadership Library and our Leadership Reading Exchange.
  • The Operator Pipeline: Assistance and endorsement for those applying to Chick-fil-A Inc.’s Corporate Leadership Development Program (LDP).
  • Holistic Wellness: Health, Dental, and Vision insurance, 401(k) matching, and tuition reimbursement.
Our Shared Commitment

Throughout this accelerator, you will be challenged. We use the Five Dysfunctions of a Team framework to build trust, engage in healthy conflict, and drive collective results. If you are looking for a \job,\ this isn't it. If you are looking for an opportunity that prepares you to lead an organization at the highest level, we are excited to hear your story.

From our local \Leadership Accelerator\ to your Operator Application

If you are interested in business ownership, joining the local accelerator will equip you with the skills and experience to succeed.

If you want to apply to be a Chick-fil-A Operator, there are two paths to get there.

  • You can apply to be an operator by copying this link here into your browser and beginning your application anytime:

https://cfafranchise.avature.net/candidatecommunityus

  • The application process is highly competitive, with tens of thousands of business leaders applying for about 100 opportunities each year. If you are currently a business leader, military leader, educational leader, or have leadership experience, working at a Chick-fil-A restaurant and getting practical experience in our leadership accelerator (similar to our operator) will strengthen your candidacy when you apply.
  • If you are early in your career and have the flexibility to move around the country for a couple of years, this \Leadership Accelerator\ at Chick-fil-A Centre City, may be the perfect preparation to learn and grow for a couple of years before applying to our corporate \Leadership Development Program\ (similar to our operator). With our \Leadership Accelerator,\ we help you prepare to apply to the highly competitive corporate program where you spend 24-36 months traveling the country and opening new Chick-fil-A restaurants (our operator is featured in the header image for this program).
  • You can learn more about our corporate \Leadership Development Program\ by copying this link here into your browser and reading more:

https://www.chick-fil-a.com/leadership-development-program

No matter your path to ownership, we are here to set you up to achieve your goals and aspirations!

Working at a Chick-fil-A Centre City Drive Thru in Escondido is more than a job – it’s an opportunity for teamwork and leadership development in a positive, people-focused environment.
Scroll down to apply :)

What Chick-fil-A employees say

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About Chick-fil-A

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Chick-fil-A, based in Atlanta, GA, US, is a well-known company in the quick-service restaurant industry. The company's official website is chick-fil-a.com. Chick-fil-A specializes in freshly prepared chicken sandwiches and other delicious chicken meals. It was founded by Truett Cathy in 1946, initially as a diner named 'The Dwarf Grill'. In 1967, the first Chick-fil-A restaurant was established. Today, Chick-fil-A operates more than 2,400 restaurants across the U.S. The core values of the company include integrity, excellence, continuous improvement, and caring. The mission of Chick-fil-A is to "Be America's best quick-service restaurant." The company prides itself on providing high-quality food and service, fostering a positive dining experience, and giving back to the communities they serve. Notable achievements include pioneering in-mall fast food and introducing the original boneless chicken sandwich.

Industry

Restaurants, food services and drinking places and traveler accommodation

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Atlanta, GA, US

Social media

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