Careers

Welcome to Zislis Group

A friendly place to work for happy people!

Owner, Michael Zislis

Independently owned and operated in Manhattan Beach, Zislis Group and its diverse portfolio of hotel, restaurant and brewery brands have defined elevated coastal-inspired hospitality. We are excited to be on the forefront for creating a new model for the hospitality industry that provides a friendly environment, a sustainable work schedule, benefits designed for the long-term, and opportunities for learning and growth. Come be a part of something great!

Apply now

Shade Hotel
Shade Hotel

"We provide a happy escape from the harsh realities of the modern world."

That's our purpose. Not just for our guests, but for anyone who walks through our doors, and that includes you. We're only great when you're happy, which is why we put people first.

A very important part of our culture is that each team member feels valued and heard. At ZG, You're not a "number", but a unique and important member of the team.

The Strand House, Manhattan Beach

Benefits

Chef at The Strand House
Chef at The Strand House

Hourly Team Members:

  • Medical & dental benefits with company match
  • Sick and holiday pay
  • Vacation benefits for full-time employees
  • Flexible scheduling-full and part time
  • Highly discounted or free meals (based on position)
  • Cross training and paths for growth
  • 401k employer contribution (based on position)
  • Employee referral program-why not work with someone you like?
  • Employee programs and recognition done throughout the year
  • Additional perks

Leaders (Leads and Above) Also Receive:

  • 100% paid medical & dental benefits
  • Life insurance
  • Vacation pay that grows as you stay
  • Holiday pay
  • Incentive programs (most positions)
  • Parking pass
  • Phone allowance
  • 401k
Shade Hotel, Redondo Beach

Don't just take our word for it. Hear from our people:

The reason I want to work at The Strand House is because of the extraordinary environment that has been created here. From the team members to the music varietal chosen, everything about The Strand House is uplifting and energetic, leaving me always wanting more!

Jordan, Admin Assistant at The Strand House

Working for the Zislis Group feels like being part of a family, both with my coworkers and our guests. I’ve made lifelong friends with my teammates and built great relationships with the wonderful guests who visit us regularly. Working at The Strand House and Shade Hotels has been truly special!

JoLise Tracey, Director of Events at The Strand House

My favorite part about working for the Zislis Group is that it is a hospitality group that truly stands behind its values. In an industry increasingly focused on bottom lines and profit margins, the Zislis Group consistently reaffirms its human-first, empathy-driven approach to the industry. Whether it is our constant contributions to local charities, or the hands-on approach from the entire leadership team, the Zislis group has made me feel valued not only as a restaurant operator, but also as a human being.

Nick Moreno, General Manager at Rock’N Fish

What I love about working for the Zislis Group is that Michael encourages us to be creative and try new things. They give us the tools and resources necessary to be successful and have fun doing it!

Nick Duffy, General Manager at Sea Level

One big happy family!

Stephanie, Rock'N Fish Server

After 16 years with Zislis Group, I can truly say this company has become a second home to me. I started in hospitality simply wanting to learn and grow, and over the years I’ve been given opportunities that have shaped me into the person and leader I am today. What I love most is the people, the relationships, and the sense of family we’ve built along the way. I’m incredibly grateful for the journey and proud to call Zislis Group home.

Bruno Moran, General Manager at brewco social

What I love most about working here is the people and the teamwork. Our guests and team members make this such a happy place to be. Over the years, I have made so many great friends, and our team truly feels like family. It doesn’t just feel like a place to work, it feels like home.

Rodolfo Vera, General Manager at Shade Hotel Manhattan Beach

Growth

If you are with us as a step towards another career, that's great - we are happy to have you while we can. But if you are interested in a career in hospitality, we provide clear paths for growth. Let us help you propel your career forward.

Here are just a few examples:

Tony Zermeno

Tony Zermeno

Executive Chef,
Sea Level Restaurant & Lounge

Over the last 17 years, Tony has graced the kitchen of every single Zislis Group-serviced property. He worked his way up from Line Cook to Executive Chef (and has done everything in between!). Tony's can-do attitude and fantastic leadership skills helped him quickly rise to the top.

Jessica and Marissa Sanchez

The Sanchez Sisters: Jessica and Marissa

Both started as hotel front desk agents and with dedication and hard work, were promoted to Front Office Managers for their respective hotels. Jessica recently accepted a new position in our Revenue department.

Katie Kruft Richardson

Katie Kruft Richardson

Director of Culture, Zislis Group

Katie opened Shade Manhattan Beach back in 2005 as the Rooms Division Manager, and several years later was promoted to General Manager. In 2009, Katie created Zislis Group with Michael Zislis, serving as Executive Vice President. After having her daughter in 2014, she segwayed into a Director of Culture role, and then in 2023 was promoted to President of Zislis Group.

Nick Duffy

Nick Duffy

General Manager, Sea Level

Nick Duffy is a natural-born leader who has worked his way from manager to General Manager throughout his years with Zislis Group. Along the way, he has made his mark across our properties, working at our brewery, then brewco social, zinc@shade, before taking the helm of our waterfront restaurant, Sea Level. Nick is always looking for ways to grow, not only the company and the teams he leads, but also himself. His dedication, leadership, and commitment to continually learning and improving are truly inspiring.

Sample Growth Path

  • Dishwasher
  • Prep
    Cook
  • Line
    Cook
  • Lead
    Cook
  • Kitchen
    Supervisor
  • Sous
    Chef
  • Executive
    Chef

Learning

More than ever, we understand the importance of community. Team members across all properties come together for Learning Days, Mixology Competitions, annual team party and award ceremony, and more. We believe that learning together is the key to flourishing.

Giving Back

Michael Zislis

Success means nothing if it is not shared with others. I am grateful that my successes have afforded me the opportunity to do so.

Michael Zislis
Walk with Sally Fundraiser
Fundraising event

Do you love giving back? Because we do.

Zislis Group is committed to supporting local charities, schools, health care organizations, community events and doing our part to be as sustainable as possible.

Part of our culture is to give back to the community who has given us so much.

From providing Thanksgiving meals to those in need, doing fundraisers for local organizations or people, Zislis Group is also a proud sponsor of Tour de Pier, Plant with Purpose Children's Hospital Los Angeles & Manhattan Beach Education Foundation, Torrance Memorial and more.

Is this something you want to be a part of?

Your dream job awaits. Click below to view open positions.