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Restaurant Controller Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Restaurant Manager

Portland, OR · On-site

$58K - $62K/yr

... while controlling costs. Oversee the receipt and inspection of deliveries to assure quality ... Compliance and Safety: Ensure the restaurant complies with all local, state, and federal ...

$20 - $25.89/hr

Ensures that cost categories including food cost, labor cost, cash and controllable expenses are controlled to company guidelines and budgeted levels. * Works within their restaurant to produce ...

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Restaurant Controller information

See Portland, OR salary details

$58.3K

$126.7K

$186.1K

How much do restaurant controller jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for restaurant controller in Portland, OR is $126,727.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $102,900.00 and $146,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a restaurant controller?

Restaurant controllers are financial professionals responsible for managing the accounting, budgeting, and financial reporting of a restaurant or hospitality group. They oversee bookkeeping, payroll, inventory management, and compliance with financial regulations. Their main goal is to ensure profitability and financial health by analyzing costs, managing expenditures, and providing financial insights to restaurant management. They often work closely with owners, managers, and external accountants to support business decisions and growth.

What does a restaurant controller do?

A restaurant controller performs accounting duties for an eatery or food service company. As a controller, you oversee all accounting and reporting activities within the business. Your responsibilities include handling financial reporting tasks and ensuring compliance with financial regulations, working on tasks such as tax preparation, payroll, invoicing, accounts payable, and bookkeeping. Controllers also help with budget planning and financial strategizing with restaurant executives or ownership. You can undertake cost comparison activities, perform financial forecasting, and conduct other assessments to improve the financial performance of the restaurant.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a restaurant controller, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Restaurant Controller, you need a solid background in accounting, financial analysis, and hospitality management, often supported by a degree in finance or accounting. Familiarity with point-of-sale (POS) systems, inventory management software, and proficiency in Excel or accounting platforms like QuickBooks is typically required. Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and the ability to communicate effectively with both management and kitchen staff are crucial soft skills. These competencies ensure accurate financial oversight, cost control, and efficient operations within a fast-paced restaurant environment.

What are the main challenges a restaurant controller faces in managing financial operations within a busy restaurant environment?

A Restaurant Controller often deals with the complexities of balancing tight margins, fluctuating inventory costs, and labor expenses. One major challenge is ensuring accurate and timely reporting while coordinating with kitchen, front-of-house, and management teams to track sales, control costs, and prevent waste. Controllers must also stay updated on regulatory compliance and implement financial controls that adapt to peak service periods and seasonal changes. Effective communication and a hands-on approach are key to overcoming these challenges and supporting the restaurant's profitability.

What is the difference between Restaurant Controller vs Restaurant Manager?

AspectRestaurant ControllerRestaurant Manager
Primary FocusFinancial oversight, budgeting, and accountingDaily operations, staff management, customer service
Required CredentialsAccounting or finance certifications, degree in business or financeHospitality management, experience in restaurant operations
Work EnvironmentOffice-based, finance departmentsFront-of-house and back-of-house restaurant settings
Employer UsageCorporate restaurants, hospitality groupsIndividual restaurant locations, hospitality industry

The Restaurant Controller primarily handles financial management, budgeting, and accounting tasks, ensuring the restaurant's financial health. In contrast, the Restaurant Manager oversees daily operations, staff, and customer experience. While both roles are essential in the restaurant industry, they focus on different aspects—financial versus operational management.

What job categories do people searching Restaurant Controller jobs in Portland, OR look for?

The top searched job categories for Restaurant Controller jobs in Portland, OR are:

Infographic showing various Restaurant Controller job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 24% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $126,727 per year, or $60.9 per hour.

Restaurant Manager

Honorable Mention

Portland, OR • On-site

$58K - $62K/yr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Benefits:
  • Diverse, Inclusive, Welcoming Safe Space for Everyone
  • Opportunities to Group
  • Work-life Balance
  • Delicious Food
  • We're Competitive

Join Honorable Mention as a Restaurant Manager and help lead a dynamic hospitality operation in the heart of Portland. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced leader to drive operational excellence, build a strong team, and create exceptional guest experiences. You'll oversee all aspects of our business while fostering a culture of service, accountability, and continuous improvement.
Honorable Mention is looking for a high-energy, hospitality-driven Manager to help lead one of Portland s most exciting new restaurant and bar experiences.

Located inside the Benson Hotel at 309 SW Broadway, Honorable Mention brings together great food, standout cocktails, elevated sports-bar energy, private events, and polished hospitality in the heart of downtown Portland. The concept is built around varsity spirit meets elevated flavor, with chef-driven food, craft cocktails, game-day energy, and a strong focus on group celebrations and private events. 
Position Overview: We are seeking an experienced Restaurant Manager to oversee the daily operations of our dining establishment. The successful candidate will be responsible for ensuring operational excellence, providing outstanding guest experiences, and leading our team with integrity and enthusiasm. This role demands a hands-on approach to leadership and a deep commitment to the art of hospitality.
Key Responsibilities:
• Operational Leadership: Manage daily restaurant operations, ensuring smooth service and high standards of quality and cleanliness. Oversee opening and closing procedures, including pre-shift preparations and end-of-day financial reconciliations.
• Team Management and Development: Lead, motivate, and manage both hourly and management staff, fostering a culture of teamwork and respect. Conduct hiring, training, and performance evaluations to develop a high-performing team.
• Guest Experience: Ensure all guests receive exceptional service. Respond promptly and effectively to guest feedback and ensure the resolution of any issues to maintain high customer satisfaction.
• Inventory and Cost Control: Perform regular inventories and carefully manage food, beverage, and supply orders to ensure proper stock levels while controlling costs. Oversee the receipt and inspection of deliveries to assure quality.
• Financial Management: Assist the General Manager in meeting financial objectives, managing costs, and driving sales to achieve or exceed budgeted goals.
• Compliance and Safety: Ensure the restaurant complies with all local, state, and federal regulations concerning health, safety, and labor requirements.

Qualifications:

• Minimum of 2 years' experience in restaurant management, preferably in a high-volume, service-focused environment.
• Strong leadership skills with proven ability to train teams and lead effectively.
• Extensive knowledge and interest in food and beverage, including a solid understanding of wine, beer, and spirits.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, capable of building strong relationships with guests, staff, and vendors.
• Ability to work a flexible schedule, including early mornings, late nights, weekends, and holidays, at multiple locations as needed.
• Physical ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 50 pounds as required.
• Experience with modern reservation systems and familiarity with the local dining scene.
• Demonstrated problem-solving abilities, with a keen attention to detail and the ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously.