Restaurant General Manager

About Jungle Bird

Jungle Bird is a vibrant and dynamic cocktail bar known for its exceptional hospitality, expertly crafted drinks, and seamless service. We pride ourselves on fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment for guests and team members. As we continue to grow, we are seeking a General Manager (GM) to join our leadership team and uphold our commitment to excellence in service and operations.

Job Summary

The General Manager is responsible for the day-to-day operations as well as the big picture, focusing on front-of-house operations, staff leadership, service standards, private event coordination, and regulatory compliance. The GM also works closely with the owners and department heads to ensure consistency and excellence in guest experience and a well-run, profitable operation.

Strong on-the-floor presence is a must. The GM must lead by example, do the right thing when no one is looking, communicate the hard things, and hold themselves and others accountable.

The General Manager is expected to take full ownership of Jungle Bird’s daily operations, acting as the primary decision-maker on site, while using the Managing Partners as a resource.

Key Responsibilities

Operations

• Oversee daily FOH operations to ensure a smooth and efficient service flow.
• Collaborate with the Managing Partners to develop and implement long-term service strategies.
• Maintain seamless coordination between the service, kitchen, and events teams, actively participating in service when needed.
• Implement and oversee new service initiatives and systems to enhance guest experience.
• Ensure DOH compliance through regular walkthroughs, mock inspections, and corrective actions in collaboration with the Kitchen Manager.
• Ensure DOL compliance with regard to updating staff notices, signage, and postings.

• Staff Management

• Recruit, hire, and train all FOH positions, ensuring they meet Jungle Bird’s high service standards.
• Manage onboarding and training, including operational systems like Toast and Schedulefly.
• Provide ongoing feedback and conduct regular staff check-ins to support team development.
• Oversee FOH scheduling, ensuring adequate coverage and efficiency while managing time-off requests.
• Conduct performance evaluations every six months, offering constructive feedback to encourage professional growth.

Guest Service

• Uphold exceptional service and hospitality standards for guests, vendors, and the local community.
• Cultivate relationships with regular guests and seek opportunities to strengthen Jungle Bird’s presence.
• Handle guest concerns and complaints with professionalism, ensuring positive resolutions.

Event Coordination

• Work closely with the Events team to coordinate private events and special functions.
• Collaborate with the kitchen and bar teams to execute event-specific menus and ensure smooth service.

Communication & Collaboration

• Maintain clear and open communication with the FOH team and management, ensuring menu changes, events, and operational updates are well-coordinated.
• Attend weekly management meetings to align on goals and upcoming initiatives.
• Explore new partnerships and event opportunities to enhance Jungle Bird’s offerings.

Ordering & Maintenance

• Oversee FOH inventory, including ordering supplies such as glassware, coasters, and napkins.
• Coordinate necessary repairs and maintenance to ensure the venue remains in excellent condition.

Qualifications & Requirements

• Minimum 3 years of FOH management experience in a high-volume bar or cocktail-focused restaurant.
• Hands-on team leader willing and able to bartend, serve, or host as needed.
• Results-oriented self-starter with strong initiative and attention to both operational detail and long-term strategy.
• Proven leadership and people management skills, with a demonstrated commitment to team development and accountability.
• Deep understanding of hospitality standards, guest experience, and service execution.
• Experience with scheduling, ordering, inventory management, and operational systems.
• Working knowledge of DOH compliance and hospitality best practices.
• Ability to multitask, problem-solve, and lead under pressure.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills.
• Proficiency in Toast, Resy, Tripleseat, Schedulefly, or similar POS and scheduling systems.

Why Join Jungle Bird?

• Jungle Bird is one of the original Chelsea cocktail bars on 8th Ave and a nightlife fixture.
• A dynamic and supportive work environment with a focus on team collaboration and development.
• The opportunity to contribute to creative service innovations and event programming.
• Work in a fast-paced, guest-focused setting that values excellence and hospitality.
• Competitive salary and growth opportunities within a thriving hospitality group.

Compensations Details

• $95k salary + bonus opportunities
• Paid time off
• 401K with a generous company match
• Health Insurance
• Employee dining discounts

How to Apply

If you are an experienced and passionate hospitality professional looking for an exciting leadership opportunity, we’d love to hear from you! Apply through Culinary Agents with your resume and a brief cover letter detailing your relevant experience and why you’d be a great fit for Jungle Bird.

Jungle Bird is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to fostering an inclusive workplace. We consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.