Manager in Training (MIT)

guernseysonic; Benton (IL); On-site; USD 45,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

guernseysonic in Benton, Illinois is seeking a Manager in Training who will participate in a structured program developing knowledge of restaurant operations, finance, and customer service under guidance. This role includes assisting with daily operations and managing staff, requiring 50 hours per week of flexible work.

The ideal candidate should have 2-3 years of management experience in food service, strong communication skills, and a willingness to relocate for store openings. Join us to make a positive impact in our community.

Qualifications

• Strong communication, math, and analytical abilities for scheduling and budgeting.
• Experience in maintaining a positive leadership style during busy periods.
• Willingness to relocate for training completion.

Responsibilities

• Assist with daily operations and drive revenue.
• Oversee store activities, cleanliness, inventory, and scheduling.
• Learn to manage payroll and control expenses.
• Assist with recruiting, hiring, and training team members.

Skills

Strong communication

Math abilities

Analytical abilities

Leadership during stress

Problem-solving resiliency

Prioritization skills

Education

Associate degree in business or related field preferred

2-3 years of management experience in food service or hospitality

Job description

POSITION SUMMARY

The Manager in Training (MIT) position requires participation in a structured program designed to develop comprehensive knowledge of Sonic restaurant operations, including finance, staff management, and customer service, under the guidance of a General Manager. This program provides hands‑on experience to prepare candidates for advancement to the General Manager role.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Assisting the general manager with daily operations and driving revenue.
• Assist in the oversight of daily store activities, ensure cleanliness, manage inventory, and handle scheduling.
• Learn to interpret P&L (profit & loss) statements, manage payroll, control expenses, and track revenue.
• Understanding how to use metrics to evaluate Drive‑In performance and make necessary improvements.
• Assist with recruiting, hiring, training, coaching, and developing team members.
• Celebrating team successes and coaching for better performance.
• Setting expectations and providing clear and continuous feedback.
• Creating an upbeat, positive atmosphere that makes work fun.
• Helping employees understand the big picture and their role by sharing the “why” behind tasks.
• In partnership with the General Manager, establish and support a community outreach program, making a difference, and growing sales for the Drive‑In and the brand.
• Enforce all federal, state, and local labor laws.
• Uphold company food safety, food handling, and sanitation requirements to ensure the health and safety of our customers and employees.
• Perform other job‑related duties as assigned or required.

QUALIFICATIONS/SKILLS

• Strong communication, math, and analytical abilities are essential for handling scheduling, budgeting, and conflict resolution.
• The ability to maintain a positive leadership style, especially during rushes and stressful situations.
• Resiliency – trying different approaches to solve a problem; working to get better every day.
• Ability to prioritize and complete tasks accordingly.
• Available approximately 50 hours per week; able to work flexible hours, including weekends, holidays, and closing shifts as needed.

EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE

• Minimum of 2-3 years of general management experience in food service or hospitality.
• Associate degree in business or related field preferred.
• Willingness to relocate to available store openings upon successful completion of training within a minimum of a 45-mile radius from home base.
• Current certifications (e.g., ServSafe)

ESSENTIAL PHYSICAL FUNCTIONS

• Must have the ability/stamina to work a minimum of 50 hours a week.
• Ability to stand/walk for 8-10 hours per day on average.
• Must be able to lift and carry up to 50 lbs.
• Will frequentlyreach, feel, bend, stoop, carry, finely manipulate, and key in data.
• Must be able to work in both warm and cool environments, indoors and outdoors.
• Must be able to tolerate higher levels of noise from music and customer traffic.