Program Director Jobs in Athens, GA (NOW HIRING)

Accelerated Training Program

Location: Chick-fil-A Hamilton Mill & Dacula

Position Type: Full-Time, 2-Year Leadership Track

Compensation: Competitive | Performance-Based Increases | Leadership Incentives

Reports to: Operator / Director Team

Program Overview

The Chick-fil-A Accelerated Leadership Training Program is an intensive, full-time, hands-on career pathway designed to prepare high-potential internal candidates for a future in franchise ownership, corporate leadership, or executive-level management-both within and beyond Chick-fil-A.

This two-year program is built on operational mastery, people leadership, and business acumen. Candidates will progress through each critical level of the business-beginning as a team member and advancing through trainer, area manager, support director and operations director. Advancement is based on individual performance, comprehension, and leadership ability-not time alone.

What You'll Gain

• Operational mastery in every aspect of restaurant performance
• Deep understanding of leadership principles in a high-performing team
• One-on-one mentorship from experienced Directors and the Operator
• Business exposure including financials, labor, P&L, food safety, HR, and marketing
• Leadership experience through managing teams, solving real-time challenges, and driving results
• Development toward potential Chick-fil-A franchise ownership or corporate opportunities

Key Responsibilities

You'll begin as a Team Member and work your way up through structured levels:

1. Team Member Trainer

• Master Front of House and Kitchen operations with excellence
• Demonstrate urgency, teamwork, accuracy, and hospitality
• Train new hires with clarity, positivity, and consistency
• Exemplify Chick-fil-A brand standards in every guest interaction

2. Area Manager

• Lead shifts and designated store areas (FOH or BOH)
• Solve real-time problems while maintaining quality and speed
• Develop team members and provide on-the-spot coaching
• Begin learning labor efficiency, inventory systems, and food safety

3. Support Director

• Proficiency in Restaurant Marketing, Training Development, or HR Roles
• Oversee operations of an entire dayshift for all areas (Drive-Thru, Kitchen, etc.)
• Set daily goals, challenge & hold Area Managers accountable
• Identify team development needs and mentor trainers
• Lead with humility, clarity, and precision under pressure

4. Operations Director

• Collaborate with Executive Team and Operator on strategic planning
• Oversee daily functions of the store and leadership teams
• Own business results: labor, productivity, guest satisfaction, safety
• Facilitate leadership meetings, hiring decisions, and culture building
• Present strategies and development plans to fellow Directors/Operator for maximum growth

Who We're Looking For

This program is designed for elite candidates who are deeply committed to growth and thrive in high-pressure, fast-paced environments.

Ideal Candidates Are:

• Highly Motivated: You set your own bar and push to exceed it.
• Self-Starters: You take initiative and learn independently.
• Strong Communicators: Clear, respectful, and consistent in all communication.
• Teachers at Heart: You're a natural coach who lifts others up.
• Physically & Mentally Tough: Long days, fast pace, and minimal downtime don't scare you.
• Adaptable & Resilient: You thrive in ever-changing environments.
• Team-Oriented: Humble, hungry, and smart about people.

Qualifications

• No college degree required
• Must be at least 18 years old
• Must be eligible to work full-time (40+ hrs/week), including early mornings, late nights, weekends, and holidays with no limitations - a set schedule each week is not guaranteed
• 2-year commitment minimum (program timeline is flexible based on progress)
• Able to lift 40+ lbs and work in physically demanding conditions (heat, cold, standing for long hours)
• Reliable transportation and consistent punctuality

Environment & Expectations

• Fast-paced and high-pressure restaurant environment
• Physically demanding, requiring stamina and endurance
• Regular exposure to outdoor elements (heat, cold, rain)
• Mentorship-driven culture focused on growth and accountability
• Flexible and frequently changing responsibilities

Future Opportunities Upon Completion

• Chick-fil-A Operator (Franchise Owner) Candidate
• Chick-fil-A Corporate Staff Candidate
• Director-Level Leadership in High-Volume Store
• Launchpad to entrepreneurial, nonprofit, or executive-level careers

How to Apply

Submit your resume and a 1-page letter of intent with your application, outlining:

• Why you want to join this program
• What leadership means to you
• What you hope to accomplish in the next 5 years

This program is not for everyone. It will challenge you physically, mentally, and emotionally. But for those called to lead with purpose and perseverance, it will change your life-and the lives of those you lead!

Working at a Chick-fil-A restaurant is more than a job - it's an opportunity for teamwork and leadership development in a positive, people-focused environment. Most Chick-fil-A restaurants are locally owned and operated by independent, franchised Operators who invest in the future of their Team Members and give back to their communities.