At Chester's, we're not just serving delicious, high-quality chicken-we're serving up a culture of innovation, passion, and growth. With roots that trace back over 60 years, Chester's has become a beloved name in the convenience store and foodservice industry, known for our mouth-watering fried chicken that keeps customers coming back for more. As we expand rapidly, with plans to open over 100 new locations this year alone, we're looking for someone who shares our commitment to excellence and innovation to join our dynamic team.
Chester's operates with a startup mentality-agile, fast-paced, and deeply committed to our mission-without the typical financial instability of a new company. Our team is passionate about what we do, and we're looking for individuals who are equally enthusiastic about growing with us as we continue to scale our business. This is more than just a job; it's an opportunity to be part of something bigger, where your contributions will directly impact our success and growth.
Position Overview
The Field Operations and Training Coordinator is a newly created role designed to support our rapid growth. This pivotal position will work closely with the Director of Operations Services and our training team to manage training materials, train new stores, and oversee all aspects of our food service operations at tradeshows. If you're someone who thrives in a fast-paced environment, enjoys hands-on work, and is excited about the prospect of traveling and representing Chester's at major industry events, this role could be the perfect fit for you.
Key Responsibilities
Training Materials:
Take charge of Chester's extensive catalog of job aids, ensuring they are up-to-date and developing new materials as our operations evolve.
Be the creative force behind our training videos-scripting, coordinating, shooting, and editing content that empowers our teams.
Play a key role in maintaining and enhancing Chester's Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), ensuring they reflect our commitment to excellence.
Support Chester's Franchise Resource Portal, making sure our training materials are accessible and effective.
Contribute to our external communications by creating and editing content for our weekly operator emails, ensuring our franchisees are informed and engaged.
New Store Opening Support:
Lead training efforts at new and existing locations using Chester's New Store Opening Training Guide, ensuring our teams are equipped for success.
Conduct comprehensive 5-day training sessions, where you'll have the opportunity to be on the front lines, helping new stores get off the ground.
Partner with our Implementation Coordinator to ensure that every new store is fully prepared and operational.
Become a subject matter expert on Chester's equipment, providing troubleshooting support and ensuring smooth operations.
Tradeshow Support:
Be the go-to person for all things tradeshows-coordinate and execute every aspect of our presence, from registration to booth setup and kitchen management.
Manage on-site logistics, including electrical setups, permitting, and inspections, ensuring everything runs smoothly and up to Chester's high standards.
Oversee the shipping and setup of Chester's Tradeshow booth, ensuring it represents our brand with excellence.
Ensure food safety and brand standards are always maintained, managing kitchen operations and food preparation to showcase Chester's quality.
Product Testing:
Play an active role in the product testing process, working both in Chester's test kitchen and in the field to ensure new products meet our high standards.
Conduct in-store customer intercept tests and long-term operational tests, gathering feedback to refine our offerings.
Develop new training materials and videos to support the introduction of new products across our network.
Chester's University & Discovery Days:
Create and deliver training materials for Chester's University, where you'll help shape the next generation of Chester's leaders.
Support our Development Team during Discovery Days and Key Account meetings, showcasing Chester's commitment to quality and innovation.
Required Qualifications
Extensive experience in restaurant training and operations, with a strong understanding of food safety protocols, labor management, and inventory management.
A track record of innovative problem-solving and the ability to bring fresh ideas to the table.
High attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and a commitment to delivering high-quality work.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team, with excellent communication skills and a positive, can-do attitude.
Intermediate proficiency in Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, and Word.
Willingness to travel overnight up to 50% of the time.
Physical capability to lift 25 pounds regularly and 40 pounds occasionally, stand or sit for extended periods.
Preferred Qualifications
Bachelor's degree, preferably in Hospitality or Restaurant Management.
Experience with tradeshow exhibit management.
Background in Learning & Development or Learning Management Systems (LMS).
What Chester's Offers:
Competitive compensation and incentive plan.
Comprehensive health and wellness benefits, including Medical, Prescription, Dental, and Vision, starting the first of the month following employment.
Financial security through our 401(k) plan with Prudential.
A balanced work/life schedule with Paid Time Off, Holidays, and Hybrid office work.
Life, Accident, and Short-Term Disability insurance after six months of employment.
Training & Growth:
A robust six-week training program that covers every aspect of Chester's operations, from hands-on store training to administrative responsibilities.
An exciting opportunity to grow your career within a company that is on the rise.