Shift Leader

Sweetgreen is a pioneering plant-forward food company focused on creating a healthier tomorrow. As a well-established restaurant chain that champions sustainability and real food, Sweetgreen is dedicated to connecting people with nutritious, fresh ingredients through a modern and engaging dining experience. The company’s mission to build healthier communities goes beyond just serving salads; it embeds sustainability, wellness, and inclusivity into every part of its operations, from sourcing local ingredients to creating warm, welcoming restaurant environments. Sweetgreen is continuously expanding and investing in its people, offering opportunities for growth from restaurant roles to support center positions, ensuring that employees are not only contributing to a meaningful cause but also advancing their own careers in the process. Sweetgreen provides equal employment opportunities to all and adheres to a strict non-discrimination policy to promote diversity and inclusion in the workplace. Employment includes consideration for all individuals regardless of gender, race, religion, disability status, veteran status, and other federal, state, or local protected characteristics. As part of their commitment to lawful employment standards, Sweetgreen participates in the E-Verify program and provides reasonable accommodations as required by law.

The Shift Leader role at Sweetgreen is a pivotal leadership position within restaurant operations. This role is designed for an individual who can support daily restaurant workflows, lead teams effectively, and foster a positive culture aligned with Sweetgreen’s core values. Shift Leaders actively engage in multiple operational capacities, including stepping into any station during peak hours to ensure smooth and efficient service, managing customer concerns with attentiveness—especially regarding allergies and order accuracy—and maintaining rigorous food safety standards. They are tasked with multitasking under pressure and coordinating team efforts with clear and effective communication. This leadership role not only demands excellent problem-solving skills and emotional regulation during busy or high-stress periods but also calls for overseeing operational compliance including adherence to health and safety policies. Shift Leaders are responsible for executing key functions typically associated with kitchen leadership while also mentoring and supporting team members to enhance their skills and performance.

Ideal candidates bring proven leadership experience, a strong sense of organization, and the ability to make confident decisions swiftly. They are excellent communicators who help foster an upbeat and inclusive team environment. Responsibilities include managing scheduling, coaching staff, handling digital tools for reporting and operations, and ensuring a seamless guest experience on every shift. Certification such as Food Handler or ServSafe is preferred, which underscores the importance Sweetgreen places on food safety expertise in leadership roles. This full-time or part-time leadership position offers competitive wages with opportunities for raises tied to skill development, tips in certain locations, and a comprehensive benefits package, all contributing to a supportive and rewarding work environment. Sweetgreen also emphasizes wellness by providing paid vacation, wellness time, and paid parental leave among other perks. Team members benefit from healthy shift meals, access to company gear through their SG Swag Marketplace, and opportunities for career growth within the company.