Training & Development Manager
- Compensation
- $70K–$85K
- Location
- Chicago, IL
- Work setup
- Not specified
- Seniority
- Not specified
- Employment
- Not specified
- Experience
- 5+ years
- Category
- Not specified
- Posted
Must have
- 3–5+ years of restaurant or hospitality management experience, with prior training, learning and development, or multi-unit operations experience preferred.
- Minimum of 2 years of experience leading training programs within a full-service restaurant environment.
- Demonstrated success developing both hourly employees and management teams through coaching and structured learning programs.
- Strong knowledge of front-of-house restaurant operations, guest service standards, food safety, and responsible alcohol service.
- ServSafe and BASSET/TIPS certification, or the ability to obtain certification upon hire.
- Excellent communication, facilitation, presentation, and interpersonal skills with the ability to influence and coach employees at all levels.
- Highly organized with exceptional project management skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously.
- Proficient with restaurant POS systems, reservation platforms, Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, and learning management software.
- Flexible schedule with the ability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed to support training initiatives.
- Bachelor's degree in Hospitality Management, Business Administration, Human Resources, Education, or a related field preferred, or equivalent combination of education and industry experience.
Full description
About Us
We are the marinara-muddled minds behind Happy Camper, Homeslice, and Paradise Park. Our restaurants are wall to wall with lights, murals, and vignettes for the perfect gram. We are known for our art inspired spaces, delicious food and great vibes. Our brand is glued together by our company culture. Currently, we are looking for other folks who are enthusiastic about being part of our team and growing our ever-evolving brand. Many of our employees have been with the company from the first installment of the brand. Our careers feel like a life purpose for many of us and a common thread is that we pay a distinct amount of attention to detail in creating this atmosphere. The ideal candidate wants to really enjoy their work environment and the people they work with. With a restaurant group expanding as rapidly as we have, we need someone who is self-motivated, and willing to take initiative. The ideal candidate wants to really enjoy their work environment and the people they work with. With a restaurant group expanding as rapidly as we have, we need someone who is self-motivated, and willing to take initiative.
Happy Hospitality
1919 West North Ave
Chicago, IL 60622
Position Opening: Training & Development Manager
Job Summary
Happy Hospitality is seeking a strategic, hands-on Training & Development Manager to lead the development and execution of front-of-house training across our restaurants. This role is responsible for building and maintaining comprehensive training programs, ensuring operational consistency, and developing teams that deliver exceptional hospitality at every guest interaction.
As the owner of our front-of-house learning and development strategy, the Training & Development Manager will create standardized training materials, coach managers and hourly team members, and continuously evaluate training effectiveness to drive performance, retention, and guest satisfaction. Working closely with Operations and Leadership, this individual will help shape the culture, service standards, and leadership development that define the Happy Hospitality experience.
This role is ideal for someone who thrives on the restaurant floor, enjoys developing people, and is passionate about creating systems that support long-term operational excellence.
Responsibilities
- Develop, implement, and continuously improve front-of-house training programs, training manuals, SOPs, and operational playbooks for all FOH positions.
- Lead all front-of-house training initiatives, hands-on floor training, refresher courses, and ongoing professional development for hourly employees and management.
- Coach and develop front-of-house managers and shift leaders through observation, feedback, and leadership development, partnering with Operations to identify performance trends and training opportunities.