Assistant Manager - Korean BBQ & Asian Dining Concept

Job Description Position OverviewWe are seeking a hands-on, operationally driven Assistant Manager / Kitchen Operations Lead to support the day-to-day leadership of a high-volume Korean BBQ and Asian dining concept. This role is ideal for a proactive restaurant leader who thrives in fast-paced, kitchen-focused environments and can help bring structure, accountability, and consistency to an evolving operation.The ideal candidate is a strong operator who can lead from the front, oversee kitchen execution, support team development, and help implement systems that improve overall operational performance. This position plays a key role in helping ownership transition the business into a more scalable, franchise-ready model.Chinese-speaking candidates are a plus, but not required.Key ResponsibilitiesOperations & Restaurant LeadershipOversee daily restaurant operations and ensure smooth service executionLead shifts with a hands-on approach, especially during high-volume periodsMaintain high standards for food quality, cleanliness, timing, and guest satisfactionEnsure operational consistency across both FOH and BOH executionSupport opening, closing, and overall shift management responsibilitiesKitchen OperationsOversee prep operations, including meats, vegetables, grill, fryer, and line stationsMonitor kitchen flow and ensure efficient execution during serviceMaintain quality control and consistency across all menu itemsWork closely with kitchen staff to improve communication, organization, and workflowAssist with inventory oversight, prep management, and waste reductionTeam Leadership & DevelopmentTrain, coach, and develop hourly kitchen and service staffHelp build accountability, professionalism, and stronger operational disciplineSupport recruiting and staffing efforts alongside ownershipFoster positive communication between ownership, management, and team membersAssist in building a stronger long-term leadership structure within the restaurantSystems & Process ImprovementHelp create and implement SOPs, training systems, and operational proceduresImprove daily organization, prioritization, and execution standardsSupport the development of scalable systems aligned with future growth plansAssist ownership in transitioning operations into a more structured environmentQualifications3+ years of restaurant management or kitchen leadership experience preferredBackground in Korean BBQ, Asian cuisine, hot pot, or high-volume restaurant operations strongly preferredExperience working in kitchen-heavy environments with hands-on operational involvementComfortable leading diverse and mixed-language teamsStrong leadership, organizational, and communication skillsAbility to work effectively under pressure in fast-paced environmentsExperience with inventory, prep management, scheduling, and labor oversight preferredChinese or Mandarin-speaking ability is a plus, but not requiredIdeal Candidate TraitsHighly proactive and self-motivatedStrong problem-solving and leadership presenceHands-on operator willing to jump into service when neededDetail-oriented with strong operational disciplineTeam-focused leader who can coach and develop othersAdaptable and comfortable wearing multiple hats in a growing businessCompensation & BenefitsCompetitive salary based on experiencePerformance and growth opportunities within an expanding conceptOpportunity to play a major role in building operational infrastructure and future growth initiativesSupportive ownership team with long-term expansion goalsWhy Join Us?This is an opportunity to step into a true build-and-grow leadership role within an evolving restaurant concept. The right candidate will have the chance to make a direct impact on operations, team development, and long-term scalability while helping shape the future of a growing brand.Company DescriptionThe Restaurant Zone is a leading hospitality recruitment agency specializing in connecting top-tier talent with restaurants, hotels, and hospitality groups across the United States. We partner with growing brands and established operators to deliver high-quality candidates for management, executive, and specialized roles. Our team combines industry expertise, a vast candidate network, and a results-driven approach to help businesses build strong, reliable teams. At The Restaurant Zone, we focus on speed, quality, and long-term fit—ensuring both clients and candidates succeed.Company DescriptionThe Restaurant Zone is a leading hospitality recruitment agency specializing in connecting top-tier talent with restaurants, hotels, and hospitality groups across the United States. We partner with growing brands and established operators to deliver high-quality candidates for management, executive, and specialized roles. Our team combines industry expertise, a vast candidate network, and a results-driven approach to help businesses build strong, reliable teams. At The Restaurant Zone, we focus on speed, quality, and long-term fit—ensuring both clients and candidates succeed.