General Manager
Company: Five Guys Burgers and Fries
Company Overview:
Five Guys Burgers and Fries is one of America's most successful and beloved hamburger concepts — ranked the #1 burger in the U.S. by Zagat. While our food gets the headlines, it's our people-first culture that makes the real difference. At Five Guys, both crew members and managers are cross-trained to work every position in the restaurant, creating a high-energy, collaborative, and fun work environment.
With an open kitchen layout, we bring the guest experience right into the action — it's loud, fast, and filled with team communication.
What It Takes to Be a Five Guys General Manager:
- People & Leadership Skills: Can you inspire and motivate others? This is the #1 trait we seek. Great leadership creates great teams.
- High Energy & Stamina: Our kitchens are fast-paced and physically active environments. Being on your feet and staying energized is a must.
- Adaptability: You'll manage a rotating crew and shift roles constantly throughout the day.
- Communication: Real-time, vocal collaboration is essential — we rely on strong team communication to keep things moving.
- Love of Food & Music: We make amazing burgers to the sounds of classic rock. A good vibe is part of our culture — and yes, singing along is encouraged!
- Team Mindset: Our best managers always put the team first and lead with humility.
Responsibilities:
- Oversee financial performance, including inventory control and cost management.
- Lead crew assignments, coaching, and performance during all shifts.
- Foster outstanding customer experiences through proactive service and problem-solving.
- Own the full shift operations, ensuring everything runs smoothly from open to close.
- Work a combination of both opening and closing shifts:
- Morning: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Afternoon/Evening: 3:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Qualifications:
- Minimum 18 years of age
- High school diploma required; some college or continuing education is a plus
- 1–2 years of leadership experience, ideally in a restaurant or customer-facing business
- Previous experience in food service strongly preferred
- ServeSafe Certification is a plus
- Strong, reliable professional references — from both supervisors and former direct reports
Perks & Benefits:
- Competitive base pay
- Quarterly bonus program based on restaurant performance
- Career advancement opportunities with a rapidly growing brand
- Dynamic and supportive team culture
- Ongoing training and leadership development
Ready to Lead the Team?
At Five Guys, you'll find a role where passion, leadership, and hustle come together in a fast-paced, rewarding environment. Bring your energy, grow with us, and help us deliver legendary burgers — every single day.
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Frequently Asked Questions
In Algonquin, IL, a General Manager at a restaurant like Five Guys can expect an average annual salary ranging from $55,000 to $70,000, factoring in base pay and quarterly bonuses. This reflects the local cost of living and competitive food service market in the region.
Algonquin's growing dining scene has increased demand for experienced General Managers. Job seekers will find a moderate number of openings, especially with popular chains like Five Guys, as restaurants seek leaders adept in fast-paced, customer-focused environments.
Successful General Managers excel through motivating teams, maintaining high energy throughout shifts, and adapting quickly to changing roles. Strong communication skills and a team-first mindset help maintain smooth operations in dynamic restaurant settings.
Unlike Assistant General Managers who typically support daily tasks, a General Manager oversees full shift operations, financial performance, and staff leadership. They hold ultimate responsibility for customer satisfaction and team coaching at every shift.
General Managers often advance to regional or multi-unit leadership roles, leveraging their operational expertise and people management skills. Continuous training and leadership development, especially in brands like Five Guys, accelerate growth opportunities.
Five Guys stands out by combining competitive pay with quarterly bonuses tied to restaurant success. The company’s emphasis on a people-first culture and cross-training fosters a lively, collaborative workplace that supports career advancement.
Expect a fast-paced environment with split shifts starting early morning or late afternoon. You'll juggle team assignments, inventory checks, and customer interactions while maintaining high energy and a vibrant kitchen atmosphere influenced by classic rock vibes.
Competition is moderate, with Five Guys valuing candidates who bring leadership experience and adaptability. Candidates with prior food service management and strong references often have an advantage in this lively market.
While not mandatory, a ServSafe certification is highly regarded locally and can enhance a General Manager candidate’s profile by demonstrating knowledge in food safety and compliance, increasing trust among employers like Five Guys.
Prioritizing team morale and communication drives better service and operational success. Five Guys believes that engaged, cross-trained staff supported by inspiring General Managers create memorable guest experiences and a positive workplace.