Food Cost Analyst
About The Position
As a Food Cost Analyst, you help protect margins and fuel smart decisions by turning complex financial and operational data into clear, actionable insights. Your work directly supports menu strategy, restaurant performance, and long‑term profitability. In this role, you Make a Difference by identifying food cost trends, risks, and opportunities that improve financial performance across the business. Serve with Heart by delivering accurate, timely analysis that leaders and partners can trust when making critical decisions. Win as One by partnering closely with Finance, Supply Chain, Operations, and cross‑functional teams to strengthen cost visibility and alignment. Move Forward Boldly by challenging assumptions, improving reporting processes, and helping the business adapt through data‑driven insights.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Economics, Data Analytics, or a related field
- Experience in financial or business analysis involving large datasets
- Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret complex financial data
- Experience with variance, trend, and performance analysis
- Proficiency in financial modeling, reporting, and data analysis tools
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- High attention to detail with strong problem‑solving and organizational skills
Nice To Haves
- Experience with food cost, commodity pricing, or cost‑of‑goods analysis
- Exposure to budgeting and forecasting in a multi‑unit or restaurant environment
- Experience partnering cross‑functionally with Operations or Supply Chain teams
- Familiarity with dashboarding, automation, or reporting optimization
Responsibilities
- Analyze food cost, commodity, and operational data to identify trends, variances, and risks
- Monitor performance against budget and forecast; investigate drivers and recommend actions
- Develop and maintain financial models, dashboards, and reporting tools
- Support budgeting, forecasting, and long‑range planning related to food and input costs
- Prepare clear analysis, reports, and presentations for leadership decision‑making
- Partner with Finance and cross‑functional teams to ensure data accuracy and consistency
- Evaluate financial impact of operational initiatives and strategic decisions
- Identify opportunities to improve reporting efficiency, data quality, and analytical processes
Benefits
- Competitive Weekly Pay
- Bonus Program that scales up to 2.5X payout potential based on company results
- 5 weeks PTO
- Flex Weeks
- Paid Corporate Holidays
- Paid Parental Leave
- 401(k) match $1/$1 up to 4%
- Competitive Medical, Dental and Vision Benefits
- Short-term and Long-term Disability Benefits
- Opportunities for Career Development and Growth
- Whataburger Family Foundation - Scholarship Program (dependents eligible) and Hardship Grant Assistance
- Discounted Meals for You and a Guest
- Wireless Service Discounts
- Computer & Software Discounts
- Fitness / Gym Discounts
- Awards and recognition for all you do
- Retirement Celebration Program
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
