What does a Shift Leader do?
A Shift Manager is generally found in a restaurant or food service industry. A Shift Manager works to ensure a positive experience for guests by overseeing all aspects of the dining experience. They assist with the execution of daily restaurant operations through training, supervision and team building. A Shift Manager is well educated in the policies and expectations of the company and is usually promoted from within or have prior relevant experience.
Shift Managers usually have a high school education or GED. A Shift Manager in the in the food industry will also be required to possess certification in food safety. Relevant and recent experience in the field they are working is essential, as they oversee managing employees and their daily interactions with customers and do so to company standards. Leadership skills and ability to resolve challenges quickly are common attributes found in an effective Shift Manager.
- Monitor and supervise the timely arrival of scheduled employees, be aware of unforeseen challenges like scheduling conflicts and see to it the business is adequately staffed
- Address customer concerns in reference to products, services rendered or employee interactions
- Establish tasks for employees to ensure a clean workplace, this includes stocking supplies and maintaining clean restrooms and public spaces
- Establish tasks for employees to ensure a clean workplace, this includes stocking supplies and maintaining clean restrooms and public spaces
- Actively seek to resolve any concerns while adhering to the company policy and standards of behavior
- Train new hires on the standards and procedures of the company, from how to handle a negative customer experience to how to properly serve customers
- Oversee and administer tests to see that all employees have a firm understanding of company policy, such as schedule changes and calling into work
- Recognize outstanding employees for exemplary work and call attention to workers that are professional and meet their goals
- A high school diploma or GED certificate is preferred
- Food handling certification and experience is essential in food service industry positions
- Ability to properly and accurately assess situations quickly while adhering to company policies
- Ability to work in the standing position for hours at a time
- Experience managing the daily staff of a restaurant or retail store
- Facilitate a positive environment and support a safe and productive workplace
- Proven leadership and experience managing a diverse team is preferred
- Ability to use company databases and software, as well as the ability to troubleshoot common software problems is essential
- Effective in prioritizing daily tasks while accounting for unforeseen challenges
Shift Leader Salaries
Average Base Pay
Shift Leader Career Path
Learn how to become a Shift Leader, what skills and education you need to succeed, and what level of pay to expect at each step on your career path.
Years of Experience Distribution
Shift Leader Insights

“Salary and few others benefits.. but it’s not worth from what I have to give.”

“I have a great team to work with and look forward to growing with the company”

“My store was pretty good our store manager tried really had to make it a good place to work and I loved the food”

“And pay isn’t absolutely amazing but it’s still decent enough for me to pay my bills.”

“My personal store manager was great but if you go to any other store it's awful.”

“they try to make it seem like the pay is really great but they do not give many hours.”

“You are surrounded by the best of the best and once you work your way up the pay is good.”

“I've worked here for four years (throughout college) and was given the opportunity for promotion.”
Frequently asked questions about the role and responsibilities of a Shift Leader
- Manager
- Regional Manager
- General Manager
- District Manager