Manager in Training (MIT)

guernseysonic; Madisonville (TN); On-site; USD 45,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

guernseysonic is seeking a Manager in Training (MIT) in Madisonville, TN, to participate in a structured program preparing for the General Manager position. Responsibilities include assisting daily operations, managing store activities, recruiting staff, and promoting a positive work atmosphere.

The ideal candidate has 2-3 years of experience in food service management, strong leadership skills, and is available for flexible hours, including weekends. The role requires stamina to work a minimum of 50 hours per week.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 2-3 years of general management experience in food service or hospitality.
• Associate degree in business or related field preferred.
• Strong communication, math, and analytical abilities.

Responsibilities

• Assist the general manager with daily operations and driving revenue.
• Manage inventory and handle scheduling.
• Assist with recruiting, hiring, training, and coaching team members.

Skills

Strong communication

Math skills

Analytical abilities

Positive leadership style

Resiliency

Task prioritization

Education

Associate degree in business or related field preferred

2-3 years of general 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.