Company: Tralph’s Burgers & Fries / Disco Chicken
Location: Knoxville, TN
Position Type: Full-Time
Position Overview
Tralph’s Burgers & Fries / Disco Chicken is seeking a strong Working Closing Manager to lead evening operations in a fast-paced restaurant environment.
This is a hands-on leadership role—not a desk management position. The Closing Manager is expected to actively work in the operation approximately 75–80% of the shift, filling hourly roles as needed including front counter, expediting, food running, line support, prep, or other operational positions while simultaneously leading the team.
You’ll be the leader on duty during evening service, responsible for guest experience, shift execution, team accountability, food quality, and ensuring the restaurant closes clean, organized, and ready for success the next day.
Key Responsibilities Operational Leadership
- Lead all evening and closing operations
- Serve as the manager in charge during assigned shifts
- Work actively alongside the team in hourly positions as business demands require
- Jump into front-of-house or back-of-house roles to maintain speed and service standards
- Ensure fast, accurate, and friendly guest service
- Monitor ticket times and kitchen flow
- Handle guest concerns professionally and resolve issues in real time
- Maintain food quality, consistency, and presentation standards
Team Leadership
- Direct, coach, and motivate hourly team members throughout the shift
- Hold team members accountable to performance and behavioral expectations
- Lead by example with urgency, professionalism, and strong work ethic
- Help create a positive but accountable team culture
Closing Responsibilities
- Execute complete nightly closing procedures
- Ensure all cleaning tasks are completed to standard
- Verify food is properly stored, labeled, and rotated
- Complete drawer reconciliation and follow cash handling procedures
- Ensure all equipment is cleaned, shut down, and secured
- Lock and secure the restaurant at close
- Leave the operation properly set up for the next day
Standards & Compliance
- Maintain cleanliness, organization, and health code standards
- Enforce food safety procedures and company policies
- Promote a safe working environment for the team
Qualifications
- Previous restaurant leadership experience required
- Fast casual, QSR, or high-volume restaurant experience strongly preferred
- Strong leadership presence with a hands-on management style
- Comfortable actively working in operational roles throughout the shift
- Ability to stay calm and decisive under pressure
- Strong guest service mindset
- Evening, weekend, and holiday availability required
- Ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 50 lbs
What We’re Looking For
- A true working leader who leads from the front
- Someone who isn’t afraid to jump on the line, run food, or help wherever needed
- Strong sense of urgency
- Reliable and highly accountable
- Team-focused but performance-driven
- Protects guest experience and brand standards at all times
Compensation & Benefits
- Competitive pay based on experience
- Growth opportunities within an expanding restaurant group
- Employee meal benefits
- Performance-based advancement opportunities
Success in This Role Looks Like
- Smooth dinner rush execution
- Strong team performance and accountability
- Excellent guest experiences
- Clean, efficient nightly closes
- A leader the team respects because they work alongside them
This wording should attract the operator / grinder type instead of applicants expecting a clipboard-and-office management role.
Pay: $42,000.00 - $45,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Employee discount
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
