We're looking for an energetic, hands-on General Manager to lead operations at The Lookout at Lake Poway, a unique restaurant and retail destination located inside one of San Diego County's most scenic parks.
The Lookout serves thousands of park visitors, hikers, anglers, campers, and families throughout the year. We offer grilled breakfast and lunch items, burgers, paninis, espresso drinks, snacks, beverages, fishing gear, bait, tackle, and fishing permits.
This is an excellent opportunity for someone who enjoys leading a team, serving guests, and running a business with significant autonomy.
What You'll Do
As General Manager, you'll oversee every aspect of the operation, including:
Lead the day-to-day operation of the restaurant and retail store
Hire, train, coach, and develop team members
Build weekly schedules and ensure proper staffing
Open the business each morning (typically beginning around 6:00 AM) and oversee operations through closing (30 minutes before sunset)
Maintain exceptional guest service standards
Manage food quality, speed of service, cleanliness, and hospitality
Order food, beverages, retail merchandise, fishing supplies, and operating supplies
Control labor, food cost, waste, and inventory
Ensure compliance with health department, food safety, and company standards
Handle cash management, deposits, and daily reporting
Coordinate with park staff and company leadership
Create a positive, accountable, team-oriented culture
We're Looking For Someone Who
Has 3+ years of restaurant, café, retail, or hospitality management experience
Leads by example and enjoys working alongside their team
Is organized, dependable, and highly accountable
Thrives in a fast-paced environment with changing customer volume
Has strong communication and leadership skills
Is comfortable managing both food service and retail operations
Can solve problems independently and make sound decisions
Enjoys interacting with guests and creating memorable experiences
Schedule
This is a full-time leadership position requiring flexibility.
The business operates year-round, opening at 6:00 AM and closing 30 minutes before sunset, including weekends and holidays. Managers work a variety of shifts based on business needs and are expected to ensure the operation is properly staffed and supported.
Compensation & Benefits
Competitive salary (DOE)
Performance bonus opportunities
Paid vacation
Employee meal benefits
Growth opportunities within our restaurant group
Beautiful outdoor work environment unlike any other restaurant in San Diego County
Why You'll Love Working Here
Very few management positions combine restaurant operations, retail, espresso, and outdoor recreation in one role. Every day is different, and you'll have the opportunity to build a great team while serving guests in one of the most beautiful settings in Southern California.
If you're a hands-on leader who loves hospitality, enjoys developing people, and wants to run a business you can truly take pride in, we'd love to hear from you.
If you are interested, please respond via email with resume and headshot attached.
