Job Title: Restaurant Manager - Service Director
Department: Management
FLSA Status: Exempt
Reports To: General Manager
Job Overview
The Restaurant Manager / Service Director is responsible for overseeing all aspects of front-of-house service and guest experience at SeaHawk Prime by David Burke. This leadership role ensures that the highest standards of hospitality are consistently delivered, while managing and coaching the service staff, including captains, servers, bartenders, support staff, and hosts. Acting as the on-the-floor ambassador of the brand, the Service Director works closely with the General Manager, Executive Chef, and other leadership to ensure operational excellence, service integrity, and team development. The Service Director leads by example on the floor during service—welcoming and engaging guests, managing the flow of service, and setting the tone for gracious, efficient, and elevated hospitality.
Key Responsibilities
Guest Experience
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Uphold and promote the mission, vision, and values of the restaurant by leading with hospitality and professionalism.
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Maintain a strong and visible presence on the floor, serving as the senior FOH leader during service.
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Greet and engage guests, oversee service flow, resolve concerns, and ensure a seamless fine dining experience.
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Function as Maître D when needed, directing seating flow, reservations, and guest interactions.
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Lead VIP service initiatives in collaboration with leadrship, ensuring personalized attention for high-profile and repeat guests.
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Review guest feedback, respond to online reviews, and implement strategies for continuous improvement.
Service Operations
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Direct daily service operations with a focus on exceptional guest experience.
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Manage opening and closing procedures, monitor service flow, and ensure all areas are prepared for each shift.
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Collaborate with the culinary and beverage teams to ensure seamless coordination and menu fluency across FOH staff.
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Maintain and enforce service standards, SOPs, and sequence of service with consistency and precision.
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Monitor guest satisfaction, table touchpoints, and service recovery practices.
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Ensure cleanliness, ambiance, and readiness of all dining and service areas.
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Support flawless execution of private dining events, special programs, and promotional activities.
Staff Leadership Development
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Hire, train, schedule, evaluate, and mentor FOH staff including captains, servers, bartenders, support staff, and hosts.
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Lead daily pre-shift meetings, tastings, and team briefings.
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Provide real-time coaching during service, reinforcing standards and refining execution.
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Foster accountability, teamwork, and professionalism, ensuring proper grooming and demeanor of all FOH staff.
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Conduct performance reviews, support career development, and promote advancement opportunities.
Administrative Strategic Responsibilities
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Prepare and manage departmental labor schedules aligned with budget and business forecasts.
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Participate in budgeting, forecasting, inventory oversight, and cost containment strategies.
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Monitor service inventory (e.g., uniforms, menus, service ware) and coordinate ordering needs.
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Maintain accurate departmental records, including staff reviews, training logs, and compliance documentation.
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Partner with the General Manager on policies, procedures, and long-term service initiatives.
Discretion and Independent Judgment:
The Restaurant Manager – Service Director is expected to exercise a high level of discretion and independent judgment in managing day-to-day front-of-house operations. This includes making decisions related to staff supervision and scheduling, guest service recovery, floor management, training and development, and the implementation of service protocols. The role requires the ability to assess dynamic service situations, respond effectively to guest and team needs, and make strategic decisions that uphold the restaurants standards, support operational goals, and contribute to overall team performance and guest satisfaction.
Required Skills Qualifications
Education:
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High school diploma required, college degree in hospitality, business, or related field preferred
Experience:
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5+ years of progressive experience in upscale or fine dining restaurant service roles
- At least 3 years in a high-volume, fine dining supervisory or management role
Skills:
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Deep understanding of luxury or upscale service environments
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Strong leadership presence and ability to inspire and motivate a team
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Outstanding communication and interpersonal skills
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Knowledge of fine dining service etiquette, wine/beverage service, and culinary terminology
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Organized, detail-oriented, and able to multi-task in a fast-paced environment
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Guest-focused with strong problem-solving abilities
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Proficiency with POS systems, reservation software, Microsoft Office, and Restaurant 365
Physical Requirements (ADA)
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Ability to speak and hear clearly in a noisy environment
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Frequent walking, standing, and mobility for extended periods
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Ability to lift up to 25 lbs. frequently and up to 50 lbs. occasionally
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Use of hands, arms, and fine motor skills for service-related tasks
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Ability to reach, bend, kneel, and stretch during service operations
Working Conditions
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Fast-paced, high-energy restaurant setting requiring poise under pressure
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Indoor and outdoor dining environments with exposure to varied weather conditions and temperatures
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Frequent exposure to hot kitchen equipment, mechanical appliances, and crowded service areas
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Occasional exposure to loud noises and risk of electrical shock
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Variable schedule including evenings, weekends, holidays, and extended hours based on business needs
Licenses/Certifications:
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Food Handlers
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Responsible Vendor
Benefits:
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Competitive pay based on experience
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Opportunities for career advancement within a growing restaurant
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Employee discounts on meals
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Health insurance for full-time employees
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A positive and passionate working environment
Application Process:
If you are passionate about hospitality and eager to contribute to a dynamic team of professionals, we encourage you to apply!
This job description provides an overview of the essential functions and responsibilities of the Assistant Restaurant Manager role. It is not an exhaustive list, and additional duties may be assigned based on operational needs.
SeaHawk Prime is an equal-opportunity employer and welcomes applicants from all backgrounds.
