At the heart of Pizza Ranch is our mission:
"To establish every Pizza Ranch® as a business ministry opportunity where our guests receive a legendary experience through quality food and service; and where we take a positive leadership position in the communities we serve and equip our employees with tools to lead happy and productive lives."

We believe in positively impacting every guest, team member, and community we serve. If you’re someone who thrives in a fast-paced, people-focused environment and enjoys making a difference through food, service, and leadership—this is the place for you.

Job Summary:
As a Guest Services Manager, you are a key member of the management team and play a vital role in delivering the Pizza Ranch experience. You’ll lead by example, helping to build a strong team culture, ensure high food and service standards, and drive successful operations during high-volume shifts—especially nights and weekends.

You’ll assist the General Manager & Assistant General Manager in day-to-day restaurant operations and help lead the guest experience using data and feedback from tools like Qualtrics. You’ll also have responsibilities across multiple operational areas to ensure smooth, safe, and guest-focused execution.

Key Responsibilities Include, but Are Not Limited To:

• Lead and support restaurant operations during peak periods 

• Execute and uphold Pizza Ranch food quality and guest service standards

• Assist with food ordering and maintaining proper inventory levels

• Conduct regular cleanliness, safety, and maintenance walkthroughs

• Interview, hire, and onboard new team members

• Provide coaching and apply progressive discipline when necessary

• Analyze guest feedback and implement improvements using Qualtrics and other tools

• Collaborate with the management team to control food and labor costs

• Model a positive and professional attitude with staff and guests

• Contribute to a team culture that promotes respect, accountability, and excellence

• Lead training and development efforts to ensure team success

Expectations:

• Improve food quality and guest satisfaction metrics

• Successfully manage and lead high-volume rush shifts

• Drive a culture of safety, cleanliness, and operational excellence

• Demonstrate strong leadership, communication, and conflict resolution skills

• Drive a culture of safety, cleanliness, and operational excellence

• Have and maintain a valid driver's license 

  Qualifications:

• Prior restaurant management experience preferred

• Strong leadership and team-building skills

• Excellent organizational, multitasking, and problem-solving abilities

• Proficiency in basic computer applications

• High school diploma or equivalent

• Ability to work in a fast-paced, hands-on environment

• Passion for hospitality and people development

If you’re ready to grow your leadership skills and make a legendary impact, we invite you to apply and be part of something special at Pizza Ranch®.

Pizza Ranch began as a single restaurant in Hull, Iowa in 1981 and has grown into a leading fast-casual franchise with more than 200 locations across multiple states. At Gravy Train Restaurant Management, we proudly operate several Pizza Ranch restaurants throughout Iowa and Illinois.

We operate with a people-first mindset — focused on operational excellence, strong leadership, and building restaurants where team members are developed, supported, and set up to succeed. Our goal is simple: deliver a legendary guest experience while building strong leaders across every market we serve.

The Opportunity

We are seeking a General Manager in Waiting — a high-impact, traveling leadership role designed for a future General Manager who is ready to grow into a long-term store leadership position.

This role supports multiple Gravy Train Pizza Ranch locations across Iowa and Illinois. You will step in where needed — supporting leadership transitions, training and developing teams, strengthening operations, and ensuring each restaurant upholds our legendary standards.

If you thrive in dynamic environments, enjoy variety in your work, and are passionate about developing people and driving results, this role was built for you.

This position requires approximately 50 hours per week and regular travel.

What You’ll Do

Lead Where You’re Needed Most

• Travel to various Gravy Train Pizza Ranch locations to provide temporary GM-level leadership and operational support.

• Step in during leadership transitions, growth phases, or performance improvement periods.

• Quickly assess team dynamics and operational opportunities.

Drive Operational Excellence

• Oversee daily operations including food quality, labor management, cleanliness, and guest service standards.

• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and food safety regulations.

• Support stores in meeting sales, profitability, and performance goals.

Develop Leaders & Teams

• Train and coach General Managers, Assistant Managers, and shift leaders.

• Support onboarding and leadership development initiatives.

• Model accountability, professionalism, and the Pizza Ranch way of leadership.

Elevate the Guest Experience

• Reinforce legendary hospitality standards across all locations.

• Support local teams in community engagement and positive brand presence.

• Ensure consistent execution of service standards and guest recovery processes.

Strengthen Financial Performance

• Analyze store performance and identify improvement opportunities.

• Assist with managing food cost, labor cost, and inventory control.

• Provide actionable recommendations to District Managers and leadership.

What You Bring to the Table

• Passion for Leadership & Development – You love coaching others and building strong teams.

• 3–5 Years of Restaurant Management Experience – Multi-unit or traveling leadership experience preferred.

• Adaptability & Problem-Solving Skills – You can walk into a new environment and quickly identify what needs attention.

• Strong Business Acumen – Experience managing P&L, labor, and cost controls.

• Excellent Communication Skills – Able to connect with team members at every level.

• Valid Driver’s License & Willingness to Travel – Regular travel across Iowa and Illinois is required.

• High school diploma required; college degree preferred.

Compensation & Travel Package

• Competitive salary

• Performance-based incentive opportunities

• Benefits package

• Company vehicle OR vehicle stipend package

• Travel support as applicable

Why Join Gravy Train?

• Clear Path to Permanent GM Placement – This role is designed to prepare you for a long-term General Manager position.

• High Visibility Leadership Role – Work directly with District Managers and executive leadership.

• Growth-Focused Organization – We invest in developing strong leaders across our restaurants.

• Supportive, People-First Culture – We believe in doing things the right way and developing leaders who make a lasting impact.

Ready to Lead Across Markets and Prepare for Your Next-Level GM Role?

Apply today to become a General Manager in Waiting and help strengthen and grow Gravy Train Restaurant Management locations across Iowa and Illinois.

At Pizza Ranch, we are driven by a powerful mission:

"To establish every Pizza Ranch® as a business ministry opportunity where our guests receive a legendary experience through quality food and service; where we take a positive leadership position in the communities we serve and equip our employees with tools to lead happy and productive lives."

 If you are a passionate leader who thrives in a fast-paced environment, values community impact, and excels in delivering exceptional guest experiences, we want you to join our team!

 Position Summary
The General Manager (GM) is the heartbeat of our restaurant, responsible for leading the team, driving business results, and creating a culture where employees and guests feel valued. This role is more than just a job—it’s an opportunity to make a lasting impact on your team and community.

As a General Manager, you will:
Lead & Inspire: Build and develop a high-performing team that consistently delivers outstanding guest experiences.
Drive Operational Excellence: Ensure smooth restaurant operations by maintaining high food quality, exceptional service, and a clean, welcoming environment.
Own the Guest Experience: Utilize guest feedback and Qualtrics data to continuously improve service and satisfaction.
Maximize Business Performance: Increase restaurant profitability through strategic sales growth, labor and food cost control, and effective financial management.
Create a Positive Work Culture: Foster a team environment where employees feel motivated, engaged, and excited to contribute.
Be a Community Leader: Represent Pizza Ranch as a trusted community partner, fostering relationships and giving back locally.

 This position requires a full-time commitment of 50 hours per week, including evening and weekend availability.

 Key Responsibilities (but are not limited to)
While the General Manager’s role is dynamic, the core responsibilities include:

Guest Satisfaction

·         Ensure each guest receives a legendary dining experience.

·         Handle guest feedback with professionalism and a problem-solving approach.

·         Maintain high standards in food quality, cleanliness, and service.

·         Build strong community relationships and uphold the values and reputation of Gravy Train Restaurant Management. 

Business & Financial Management

·         Develop and execute strategies to increase revenue and profitability.

·         Monitor restaurant performance through data-driven decision-making.

·         Control costs related to food, labor, and operations.

Team Leadership & Development

·         Recruit, train, and mentor a high-performing team.

·         Set clear expectations and provide regular coaching and feedback.

·         Foster an environment that promotes teamwork, accountability, and professional growth. 

Operational Excellence

·         Maintain compliance with health, safety, and brand standards.

·         Implement and oversee daily operational procedures.

·         Ensure proper inventory management and cost control.

Qualifications, Skills, and/or Competencies:

• Passion for leading and developing people

• Proven record of management, communication, and organizational skills

• The ability to prioritize multiple situations

• Effective communicator, and listener with good oral and written communication skills

• 3-5 years of Restaurant Management experience, preferred

• Proficient in basic computer skills

• High School graduate or equivalent, College Degree, preferred

• Possess business acumen

Why Join Pizza Ranch?

·         Competitive Pay & Bonus Potential

·         Leadership Growth

·         Positive & Family-Oriented Culture

·         Impact Your Community

If you’re ready to lead with purpose, make a difference, and take your career to the next level, apply today!

At Pizza Ranch, we believe in our mission:

“To establish every Pizza Ranch as a business ministry opportunity where our guests receive a legendary experience through quality food and service; and where we take a positive leadership position in the communities we serve and equip our employees with tools to lead happy and productive lives.”

If you’re someone who thrives on brightening people’s days, loves to connect with others, and enjoys creating memorable guest experiences, we’d love to have you join our team!

Position Overview

As a Front of House Guest Experience Team Member, you’re the friendly face and positive energy that bring our “Legendary Experience” to life. You’ll make guests feel welcome from the moment they walk in, ensure they enjoy a clean and inviting dining experience, and go above and beyond to make their visit special.

This is not a serving position—you won’t take food orders—but you will provide the same level of care, attention, and engagement that a great server would. Think of yourself as a host, ambassador, and smile-maker all in one!

Key Responsibilities

• Warmly welcome every guest with genuine enthusiasm and friendliness.
• Check in with guests throughout their meal to ensure they’re enjoying their visit.
• Clear and reset tables quickly while maintaining a spotless dining room.
• Keep the buffet area clean, organized, and inviting at all times.
• Anticipate guest needs—offer drink refills, assist with plates, and engage in positive conversation.
• Help create a fun, uplifting environment for both guests and team members.
• Support your teammates to ensure smooth restaurant operations and uphold Pizza Ranch’s mission and values.

What We’re Looking For

• A naturally upbeat, positive, and outgoing personality—someone who enjoys interacting with people.
• A passion for creating great guest experiences.
• Strong teamwork and communication skills.
• The ability to stay on your feet, move quickly, and multitask in a fast-paced setting.
• Willingness to maintain cleanliness and safety standards throughout the restaurant.
• Prior restaurant or customer service experience is a plus, but not required—we’ll provide all the training you need!

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand or walk for long periods.
• Frequent reaching, bending, and lifting up to 40 pounds.
• Ability to move quickly and efficiently in a busy environment.

Join the Pizza Ranch Family!

If you have a heart for hospitality, a contagious smile, and a desire to make a difference—one guest at a time—this role is for you. Apply today and help us serve up legendary experiences every day!

Pizza Ranch ®Inc., started as a single location in Hull, Iowa in 1981.  Pizza Ranch is in the category of a fast-casual restaurant.  

Our unique concepts specialize in pizza, chicken, salad and dessert buffet, as well as delivery and take out.  Our franchise has grown steadily with over 200 locations in thirteen states. What makes Pizza Ranch® unique is that most stores offer a host of dining options. 

We strive to make a positive impact for those that are devoted to family, faith and guests, we call them devoted diners. Our company is fueled by a powerful mission to “Establish Every Pizza Ranch® as a business ministry opportunity where our guests receive a legendary experience through quality food and service; and where we take a positive leadership position in the communities we serve and equip our employees with tools to lead happy and productive lives.” 

Pizza Ranch is committed to making a positive impact no matter how big or small so that each person leaves a little better off, because of the genuine care and concern we give to our guests, team members and communities. 

If this sounds like an environment where you would like to work, we are always looking for enthusiastic, guest-oriented people who love to be of service to others. 

Responsibilities: 

All our Crew Members are vital to the successful operation of our restaurants. There are two ways to become a Pizza Ranch Crew Member.  You can apply for either a Front of the House (Dining Room), or Back of the House (Kitchen).  The responsibilities below will give you a general idea of the types of activities involved in both of these departments. 

Front of House Support Duties—Guest Hospitality, Safety, Buffet Coordination and Maintenance, Point of Sale, Dining Room Cleanliness, Guest Relations & Transactions, Phone Responsibilities. 

Back of House Support Duties—Food Preparation and Safety, Processing Orders, Pizza, Chicken, Dish Room order and cleanliness, Out the Door Order coordination Could include, some, all or none of the duties.   

The exact position will be determined post interview. 

Qualifications, Skills, and/or Competencies: 

• Ability to be mobile and/or on your feet for extended periods of time during entire shift. 

• Reaching, bending, stooping, lifting, wiping, sweeping, and mopping. 

• Ability to lift and carry weight up to 40 pounds. 

• Strong desire and ability to provide legendary guest service. 

• Ability to positively interact with Team Members and Guests. 

• Restaurant experience preferred but not required.