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Restaurant Development Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Manager of International Development will drive Wendy's new restaurant development across the Latin America & Caribbean (LAC) region by partnering with franchisees to support the delivery of new ...

As part of the restaurant development process, you will create and deliver presentations that showcase WeBox's e-commerce platform, professional logistics, and exceptional customer service to ...

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Restaurant Development information

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How much do restaurant development jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for restaurant development in the United States is $21.83, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.55 and $24.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced in a Restaurant Development role, and how can candidates prepare to address them?

Professionals in Restaurant Development often navigate challenges such as site selection in competitive markets, adhering to zoning or regulatory requirements, and aligning new locations with brand standards. Candidates can prepare by developing strong analytical skills for market research, gaining familiarity with real estate negotiation, and building relationships with local authorities and contractors. Collaboration with cross-functional teams—such as operations, marketing, and design—is also key to ensuring successful openings and long-term profitability.

What is restaurant development?

Restaurant development refers to the process of planning, designing, and opening new restaurant locations or expanding existing ones. This role involves site selection, negotiations with landlords, managing construction or renovations, and ensuring compliance with regulations. Restaurant development professionals work closely with architects, contractors, and business leaders to bring new dining experiences to market and support a brand's growth strategy.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Restaurant Development, and why are they important?

To thrive in Restaurant Development, you need expertise in site selection, market analysis, project management, and a background in business, real estate, or hospitality. Familiarity with real estate management systems, geographic information systems (GIS), and relevant certifications such as Certified Commercial Investment Member (CCIM) is often valuable. Strong negotiation, relationship-building, and communication skills help you collaborate with stakeholders and drive successful project outcomes. These skills ensure effective expansion, minimize risks, and support long-term growth for restaurant brands.

What is the difference between Restaurant Development vs Restaurant Manager?

AspectRestaurant DevelopmentRestaurant Manager
Primary FocusExpanding and opening new restaurant locations, strategic growthOverseeing daily restaurant operations, staff management
Required CredentialsBusiness or hospitality degree, experience in expansionHospitality management, customer service skills
Work EnvironmentCorporate offices, site visits, project planningRestaurant floor, staff supervision
Industry UsageUsed by restaurant chains, franchisorsUsed by individual restaurant outlets and chains

Restaurant Development focuses on strategic growth, site selection, and opening new locations, often working in corporate settings. In contrast, a Restaurant Manager handles daily operations, staff, and customer service at an existing restaurant. Both roles are vital but serve different stages of a restaurant's lifecycle.

More about Restaurant Development jobs
What cities are hiring for Restaurant Development jobs? Cities with the most Restaurant Development job openings:
What states have the most Restaurant Development jobs? States with the most job openings for Restaurant Development jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Restaurant Development jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Restaurant Development jobs are:
Infographic showing various Restaurant Development job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 61% Full Time, 27% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,409 per year, or $21.8 per hour.
Leadership Development Position

Leadership Development Position

Chick-fil-A

Knoxville, TN

$23/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision

Posted 24 days ago


Chick-fil-A rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 7,461 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

13th of 103 rated fast food restaurants


Job description

Pathway to Leadership – Chick-fil-A In-Restaurant Program

Are you passionate about service, leadership, and making a meaningful impact in your community? Chick-fil-A’s Pathway to Leadership is an immersive in-restaurant development program designed to equip team members with the skills, experience, and character needed to grow into leadership roles. Whether you’re exploring a career in restaurant management or pursuing long-term opportunities with Chick-fil-A, this program offers hands-on training, personal mentorship, and real responsibility in a fast-paced, team-centered environment. For those who demonstrate exceptional leadership and alignment with Chick-fil-A's mission, the Pathway to Leadership can serve as a stepping stone toward candidacy for Chick-fil-A's Leadership Development Program and a chance to be a future Chick-fil-A Operator.

Key Responsibilities

  • Rotate through multiple areas of the business, including Front of House (FOH) and Back of House (BOH), to gain comprehensive operational experience.
  • Lead and support team members by promoting operational consistency and maintaining a standard of excellence.
  • Balance responsibilities of shift leadership alongside essential operational tasks including inventory management, product ordering, staff scheduling, and conducting interviews.
  • Champion and embody the Chick-fil-A’s “Winning Hearts Every Day” mission, ensuring a consistently positive guest experience.
  • Deliver exceptional 2nd Mile Service to create memorable guest experiences and exceed expectations.
  • Align daily actions and decisions with the vision and values set by the Operator and leadership team.
Leadership Skills Required  

·       Demonstrates the core leadership qualities we value in leaders and future Chick-fil-A Operators:

o  Character – Lives out Chick-fil-A’s values with integrity and consistency.

o  Chemistry – Builds strong relationships, encourages teamwork, and helps others grow.

o  Competency – Thinks strategically, learns quickly, and drives results through effective systems.

·       Embraces a servant leadership mindset—team-oriented, people-focused, and committed to delivering exceptional guest experiences.

·       Highly organized with strong communication skills—verbal, written, and digital.

·       Coachable and growth-minded, open to feedback and willing to provide it constructively to others.

·       Able to learn quickly, adapt in a fast-paced environment, and lead others through change.

·       Leads with a passion for mentoring and developing team members at all levels.

·       Skilled in problem-solving and time management, able to prioritize tasks efficiently.

·       Stays calm and focused under pressure, making thoughtful decisions while supporting both guests and the team.

Additional Requirements

  • Bachelor’s Degree
  • Ability to work a flexible schedule including weekends and holidays (open availability)
  • Reliable transportations to meet opening and closing shifts as needed
  • Minimum 2 year commitment expected

Our Benefits Include:

  • Competitive Pay - Along with a competitive paycheck, you will work in a nurturing environment where you will learn valuable business and people skills.
  • Medical, Dental, Vision benefits.
  • Closed Sundays - All Chick-fil-A restaurants are closed on Sundays so you can have a day off to spend with family and friends.
  • Free Break Meals - One free meal per shift.
  • Scholarship Opportunities - Award amounts include: $1,000, $2,500, or $25,000.
  • Discounted Tuition Program – Chick-fil-A Team Members are eligible for discounted tuition at participating colleges and universities.
  • Future Career Opportunities - We strive to promote intentional growth and development to help you reach your professional goals. This will strengthen your leadership skills which could lead to opportunities to become a Chick-fil-A Operator or Corporate Staff Member with Chick-fil-A, Inc. or any other profession that you chose.
  • Opportunities for Travel - Travel to different Chick-fil-A grand openings to learn and development your skills.
  • Positive Culture - At Chick-fil-A, we want every guest and Team Member to have a premium experience. We believe in going above and beyond for each other and our guests.
  • Work Directly With A Chick-fil-A Operator - The Operator is an independent business person, responsible for the operation of the restaurant, who invests time in his or her employees, teaching them important business skills for the future.

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.


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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

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