Social Cantina/Smokeworks- Bloomington, IN General Manager Bloomington, IN · Full time Company website

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Bringing our best to the table. Every time. We're not just another restaurant group. We’re a team of doers and industry-passionate individuals who are committed to delivering exceptional hospitality experiences. Our focus is on creating legendary experiences rooted in human connection, and we keep our chins up, our eyes above the horizon, and our hearts in the right place. At Social Cantina, we offer more than just a job. You can expect to be part of a dynamic, fun, and fast-paced environment where your career can truly flourish. We provide a variety of exciting roles in both the front and back of the house, with ample opportunities for growth and advancement. Our team-centric culture values creativity, collaboration, and customer satisfaction, ensuring a fulfilling work experience. Discover the benefits of working with us, including competitive pay, flexible schedules, and a supportive community that feels like family.

Social Cantina Bloomington isn’t just another restaurant—it’s the original Social Cantina location and the heart of the brand. As the flagship Social Cantina, this location has built a loyal following, a strong culture, and a reputation for delivering an energetic, guest-focused experience that keeps people coming back. In Bloomington, our Social Cantina and Smokeworks BBQ teams operate as one unified restaurant team, creating a fast-paced, collaborative environment with two unique concepts under one roof.

We’re looking for a General Manager who’s ready to lead this high-volume, multi-concept operation with confidence, energy, and a people-first mindset. This role is ideal for someone who thrives on building strong teams, driving operational excellence, and creating memorable guest experiences in a dynamic hospitality environment.

If you’re an experienced leader who loves developing people, improving systems, and leading from the front, this is an opportunity to take ownership of one of the most important locations in the company.

What You’ll Be Leading

Operational Leadership

• Lead day-to-day operations across both Social Cantina and Smokeworks BBQ, overseeing service, kitchen, and bar execution
• Maintain high standards for food quality, hospitality, cleanliness, and speed of service across both concepts
• Ensure health, safety, and sanitation standards are consistently upheld
• Strengthen systems and processes that support efficiency, organization, and long-term success in a high-volume environment
• Coordinate multiple moving parts while keeping operations smooth and guest-focused

Team & Culture Leadership

• Lead and develop one cohesive management and staff team supporting both restaurant concepts
• Build a workplace culture centered on accountability, teamwork, hospitality, and growth
• Coach and develop Assistant Managers and team members through consistent feedback, recognition, and support
• Create strong leadership continuity while maintaining a positive, energetic environment
• Protect and strengthen the culture that has made Bloomington a successful flagship location

Guest Experience Excellence

• Set the standard for exceptional hospitality and memorable guest experiences
• Lead by example and inspire the team to deliver friendly, fast, and personalized service
• Respond to guest feedback quickly and effectively, turning concerns into opportunities to build loyalty
• Drive guest engagement and community connection that keeps the restaurant top-of-mind in Bloomington

Business & Financial Performance

• Manage budgets, forecasting, scheduling, and labor planning with confidence
• Monitor key financial metrics and take action to drive strong operational results
• Oversee inventory, purchasing, and cost controls across both concepts
• Partner with leadership to identify opportunities for growth and continuous improvement
• Balance profitability with culture, team development, and guest satisfaction

Community Presence & Local Connection

• Represent Social Cantina and Smokeworks BBQ as a visible leader in the Bloomington community
• Support local marketing initiatives, campus engagement, and community partnerships
• Build relationships that strengthen brand awareness and drive repeat business
• Help maintain the reputation of the original Social Cantina location

Do You Fit the Bill?

We’re looking for someone with:

• 5+ years of restaurant management experience, including 2+ years in a senior leadership role
• Experience leading high-volume, full-service restaurant operations
• Strong understanding of restaurant financials including budgeting, forecasting, labor management, and cost controls
• A leadership style that builds strong teams, develops future leaders, and drives accountability
• Excellent problem-solving and decision-making skills in fast-paced environments
• Comfort with restaurant technology systems and Microsoft Office
• Bonus points for experience managing multiple concepts or large-scale operations
• ServSafe Manager and responsible alcohol service certification (or ability to obtain)

Work Requirements

• Full-time, averaging 45 hours/week
• Open availability including nights, weekends, and holidays
• Attendance at required company development meetings
• Ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 50 lbs

Perks

• 💰 Monthly Bonus Program
• 🌴 3 Weeks PTO + Paid Holidays + Birthday Off
• 👶 Paid Parental Leave
• 🩺 Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• 🍔 Dining Privileges at all FHG restaurants
• 📱 Monthly Cell Phone Stipend
• 🚗 Monthly Parking Stipend

This is your opportunity to lead the original Social Cantina location while overseeing a unique dual-concept operation alongside Smokeworks BBQ. You’ll inherit a strong team, an established guest base, and a restaurant with deep roots in the Bloomington community—while helping shape what comes next.

If you’re ready to lead with energy, develop great people, and continue building something special, we’d love to meet you.

Apply today and help lead the next chapter of Social Cantina Bloomington and Smokeworks BBQ.