Operating Partner — Restaurant Leadership & Growth

whataburger; Midland (TX); On-site; USD 110,000 - 160,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Weekly pay

Paid time off from day one

Parental leave

Medical, dental, vision

Disability benefits

401(k) match

Career development

Education support

Discounted meals

Tech discounts

Gym discounts

Awards & recognition

Job summary

Whataburger is seeking an Operating Partner to lead a high-volume restaurant, driving sales, profitability, and people development from your home base. You’ll mentor Restaurant Managers, Shift Leaders, and Team Members, delivering hospitality, brand standards, and staffing excellence to power long-term growth.

You’ll be accountable for building high-performing teams, managing labor and costs, and executing business plans that elevate guest experiences and local impact.

Qualifications

• Be at least 21 years of age.
• Associate degree or equivalent work experience.
• 2+ years of restaurant or hospitality management experience.
• Demonstrate success leading teams and developing leaders.
• Possess strong business acumen with experience managing financial performance.
• Have the ability to recruit, coach, and retain top talent.
• Possess Food Safety Certification (or ability to obtain during training).
• Be able to work a full-time, flexible schedule based on business needs.
• Possess a valid driver’s license and maintain required automobile liability insurance.
• Be able to stand for the entire shift, lift up to 55 lbs., and meet physical demands.
• Ability to adapt to and learn new and evolving technology platforms, systems, applications, and equipment used in the role.

Responsibilities

• Lead all aspects of restaurant performance, including sales, profitability, operations, and people.
• Build, coach, and develop high-performing Restaurant Managers, Shift Leaders, and Team Members.
• Create a culture of hospitality that delivers exceptional guest experiences.
• Champion food safety, workplace safety, and brand standards.
• Own restaurant staffing, recruiting, hiring, retention, and succession planning.
• Drive financial results through effective labor, food cost, and expense management.
• Develop and execute business plans that support long-term growth and performance.
• Lead change initiatives, new programs, and operational improvements.
• Foster engagement through coaching, recognition, and meaningful communication.
• Partner with Market Leaders and fellow Operating Partners to share best practices and drive results.
• Represent Whataburger in the community to strengthen the brand and attract talent.
• Ensure the restaurant consistently delivers quality, cleanliness, and operational excellence.

Skills

Leadership

Talent development

Team management

Business acumen

Recruiting

Education

Associate degree or equivalent

Job description

Whataburger is seeking an Operating Partner to lead a high-volume restaurant, driving sales, profitability, and people development from your home base. You’ll mentor Restaurant Managers, Shift Leaders, and Team Members, delivering hospitality, brand standards, and staffing excellence to power long-term growth.

You’ll be accountable for building high-performing teams, managing labor and costs, and executing business plans that elevate guest experiences and local impact.