Restaurant Shift Leader
Job Overview:
As a Shift Leader at Five Guys, you’ll play a key role in creating a positive experience for both team members and guests. You’ll be hands-on in daily operations—coaching team members, setting the pace, and leading by example in delivering high standards of food quality, cleanliness, and customer service. This role is a crucial step toward a long-term management career and provides the opportunity to make a real impact on the success of your location.
What You'll Get:
- Competitive base pay starting at $19.00/hour, plus tips and bonuses
- Weekly eligibility for Secret Shopper bonus shared by the entire shift team
- Free meals during every shift worked
- A supportive, fun work environment with team-oriented culture
- Access to growth opportunities and promotions within the company
- Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, and 401(k) (eligibility required)
- Real-time feedback, performance reviews, and mentorship
Responsibilities:
- Lead and supervise shifts by managing crew assignments and overseeing day-to-day operations
- Foster a team environment that emphasizes cooperation, positivity, and productivity
- Ensure food is prepared to high-quality standards and maintain food safety protocols
- Train and mentor team members to perform all restaurant functions efficiently
- Handle guest concerns promptly and professionally
- Take ownership of cleanliness, organization, and store readiness during your shift
- Support opening and closing procedures and track shift performance metrics
What We're Looking For
- Previous experience in a leadership role in food service or a fast-paced environment
- Strong communication skills and the ability to motivate a diverse team
- A commitment to excellence in customer service and operations
- Enthusiasm for great food, high energy, and a positive attitude
- Dependability and a strong sense of personal accountability
- Willingness to learn, adapt, and take initiative
- Desire to grow and take on more responsibility
If you're ready to take the next step in your restaurant career and work in an environment where you can lead, grow, and have fun doing it—Five Guys is the place for you.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Wethersfield's casual dining scene shows steady need for shift leads, particularly at popular chains like Five Guys. Compared to boutique restaurants, chain outlets often have higher turnover, increasing opportunities. Candidates with solid team leadership skills usually find quicker openings here than in more specialized local venues.
Shift leads often juggle staff coordination, fast-paced service, and guest satisfaction simultaneously. Proactive communication, real-time problem-solving, and fostering a positive team atmosphere help overcome rush-hour pressures and ensure smooth operations during peak times.
Strong interpersonal skills, decisiveness, and adaptability rank high. A shift lead must motivate diverse teams, manage operational details, and handle guest issues promptly. Demonstrating accountability and an eagerness to nurture team growth enhances effectiveness in this role.
Starting pay at $19 hourly, supplemented by tips and bonuses, positions Five Guys competitively within Wethersfield’s fast food sector. Including benefits like 401(k) and medical coverage further elevates total compensation compared to many local equivalents.
While formal certifications aren’t always mandatory, food safety training such as ServSafe is highly valued. Connecticut employers often look for candidates familiar with local health regulations and possessing leadership experience to ensure compliance and team efficiency.
Shift leads at Five Guys often progress into restaurant management roles, gaining experience in broader operational oversight. The company emphasizes mentorship and performance reviews, helping motivated individuals move towards assistant manager or store manager positions.
Five Guys offers weekly secret shopper bonuses shared among shift teams, free meals during every shift, and a lively team culture. These benefits, combined with competitive pay, make it an attractive workplace for those seeking both financial and social rewards.
Five Guys shift leads uniquely balance hands-on coaching with setting pace and maintaining food quality standards. Unlike some chains, they are deeply involved in cleanliness, guest interactions, and opening/closing procedures, emphasizing a holistic leadership approach.
The 1st shift often involves intense prep and opening duties, setting the tone for the day, while the 2nd shift focuses on maintaining momentum and handling peak dining hours. Due to higher customer volume later, 2nd shift can feel more fast-paced and demanding.
Retail leads bring valuable customer service and team management experience. To succeed at Five Guys, adapting to a fast food environment's pace, learning food safety protocols, and developing hands-on operational skills are key steps for a smooth transition.