Restaurant Opening Leader — Travel-Heavy, Shape New Stores

El Pollo Loco, Inc.; Costa Mesa (CA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical Insurance

Dental Insurance

Vision Insurance

HSA Savings Account

401(K) Retirement Plan

Paid Vacation

Sick Pay

12 Paid Holidays

Employee Assistance Program

Free Food

Restaurant Discounts

PerkSpot discounts

Job summary

El Pollo Loco, Inc. is seeking a Restaurant Opening Leader to drive open- ing new restaurants and stabilize at-risk locations. You will model elite GM performance, lead on-site operations, and collaborate across departments to ensure readiness and success from Day 1.

The role requires extensive travel, ownership mindset, and the ability to coach incoming leaders while safeguarding food safety and labor practices. This is a full-time position based at the Support Center with field travel.

Qualifications

• Must have General Manager experience with El Pollo Loco.
• Strong communication and leadership capabilities.
• Ability to travel 100% of the time.
• Comfortable leading in unfamiliar or newly built environments.
• Flexibility to work various shifts, including weekends and holidays.

Responsibilities

• Lead on-site execution for restaurant openings and stabilization.
• Partner with Operations, Training, HR, and Facilities for readiness.
• Model standards and labor deployment with accountability.
• Coach leaders and transfer systems knowledge to the GM.
• Protect company assets and ensure safety and compliance.

Skills

Leadership

Coaching

Communication

Operational judgment

Travel willingness

Job description

El Pollo Loco, Inc. is seeking a Restaurant Opening Leader to drive open- ing new restaurants and stabilize at-risk locations. You will model elite GM performance, lead on-site operations, and collaborate across departments to ensure readiness and success from Day 1.

The role requires extensive travel, ownership mindset, and the ability to coach incoming leaders while safeguarding food safety and labor practices. This is a full-time position based at the Support Center with field travel.