Restaurant Manager in Training (MIT) | Leadership Development Program | BBQ Restaurant
Old Carolina Barbecue Company (BBQ)
Full-Time, Hourly Position
Pay: $19.00 - $22.00 per hour
READY TO TAKE THE NEXT STEP IN YOUR RESTAURANT LEADERSHIP CAREER?
Old Carolina Barbecue Company is seeking motivated restaurant leaders who are ready to expand their management skills and prepare for future Assistant Manager opportunities.
Our Manager in Training (MIT) program is designed for high-performing supervisors and emerging leaders who have demonstrated strong operational knowledge, leadership ability, and a commitment to delivering exceptional guest experiences.
As a Manager in Training, you'll receive hands-on development in restaurant operations, financial management, team leadership, staffing, food safety, and business performance. Working alongside experienced Assistant Managers and General Managers, you'll gain the knowledge and experience needed to prepare for future Assistant Manager opportunities.
This position is intended as a leadership development role. Advancement to Assistant Manager is based on demonstrated performance, successful completion of training objectives, leadership readiness, and available opportunities within the company.
ABOUT OLD CAROLINA BARBECUE COMPANY
Old Carolina Barbecue Company was built on a passion for authentic barbecue and a commitment to great hospitality. Before opening our first restaurant in Massillon, Ohio, we started as a competitive BBQ team dedicated to perfecting the craft of slow-smoked barbecue.
While our home is in North Canton, Ohio, our recipes, traditions, and cooking techniques are inspired by the rich barbecue heritage of the Carolinas. Today, Old Carolina Barbecue Company proudly operates eight locations throughout Northeast Ohio and Pennsylvania, serving authentic BBQ made with quality ingredients, time-honored methods, and a genuine commitment to our guests.
As we continue to grow, we are looking for leaders who are passionate about people, hospitality, and building a long-term career with a company that values development, teamwork, and operational excellence.
WHY JOIN OLD CAROLINA BARBECUE COMPANY?
• Competitive hourly pay of $19.00 - $22.00 per hour
• Additional tip income opportunities
• Medical, dental, and vision benefits
• Paid vacation
• Free meals during shifts
• Company-provided uniforms
• Structured leadership development and mentorship
• Clear pathway toward future Assistant Manager opportunities
• Supportive and people-focused culture
• Growing BBQ restaurant company with long-term career opportunities
LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM
At Old Carolina Barbecue Company, we believe great leaders are developed, not simply hired.
As a Restaurant Manager in Training, you will receive hands-on training and mentorship in:
• Restaurant operations management
• Shift leadership and execution
• Financial performance and profitability
• Labor management and scheduling
• Inventory control and food cost management
• Team building and talent development
• Recruiting and staffing
• Coaching and performance management
• Guest experience leadership
• Food safety and sanitation systems
• Business planning and execution
Successful completion of the program may lead to consideration for future Assistant Manager opportunities based on performance, readiness, and business needs.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Leadership & Team Development
• Assist in leading daily BBQ restaurant operations
• Direct and support team members during shifts
• Help train, coach, and develop restaurant employees
• Promote a culture of accountability, teamwork, and hospitality
• Lead by example through professionalism, work ethic, and guest service
• Support leadership development initiatives within the restaurant
Guest Experience
• Deliver exceptional hospitality and guest satisfaction
• Resolve guest concerns professionally and promptly
• Create a welcoming and engaging dining experience
• Ensure Old Carolina Barbecue Company's service standards are consistently executed
Operations & Financial Performance
• Learn and support restaurant sales and profitability initiatives
• Assist with labor management and scheduling processes
• Learn inventory management, ordering, and cost control procedures
• Support compliance with company systems, policies, and operational standards
• Assist with reporting and administrative responsibilities
Food Quality & Safety
• Ensure all BBQ and menu items are prepared according to company standards
• Maintain food safety, sanitation, and health department compliance
• Monitor product quality, consistency, and presentation
• Promote cleanliness and operational excellence
Safety & Compliance
• Maintain a safe environment for guests and team members
• Ensure compliance with company policies and applicable regulations
• Follow cash handling, security, and loss prevention procedures
QUALIFICATIONS
Preferred Qualifications
• Previous restaurant supervisory, shift leader, team lead, or management experience
• Demonstrated ability to lead and motivate team members
• Strong communication, coaching, and problem-solving skills
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced restaurant environment
• Desire to pursue a long-term career in restaurant leadership
• Experience with employee scheduling, labor management, inventory control, and coaching team members preferred
• ServSafe Manager Certification preferred or willingness to obtain certification
• High school diploma or GED preferred
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
The physical demands described here are representative of those required to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions.
• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods throughout the workday
• Ability to bend, stoop, kneel, crouch, and reach as needed
• Ability to occasionally lift and carry up to 50 pounds
• Ability to work in a fast-paced restaurant environment
• Ability to communicate effectively with guests and team members
WORK SCHEDULE
This is a full-time hourly leadership development position. Flexibility to work days, evenings, weekends, and holidays is required based on business needs.
This position is classified as non-exempt and is eligible for overtime compensation in accordance with applicable federal and state laws.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
Old Carolina Barbecue Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to creating an inclusive workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected status under applicable law.
Reasonable accommodations are available for qualified individuals with disabilities throughout the application and employment process.
Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States.
Work schedule
- Other
Supplemental pay
- Tips
Benefits
- Paid time off
- Flexible schedule
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Vision insurance
- Life insurance
- Disability insurance
- Referral program
- Employee discount
- Paid training