Shift Leader

Sweetgreen is a rapidly growing plant-forward food company dedicated to creating healthier communities by connecting people to real food. Established with a vision for a healthier tomorrow, Sweetgreen emphasizes sustainability, health, and an inclusive culture that fosters growth for both its employees and the planet. The company operates a chain of fast-casual restaurants renowned for serving nutritious salads and bowls made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Rooted in its mission, Sweetgreen goes beyond simply serving food, aiming to lead a movement that transforms how communities eat and engage with their environment.

Joining Sweetgreen means becoming part of a dynamic and progressive team that values leadership, authenticity, and sustainability. The company places great importance on providing equal opportunities regardless of gender, race, sexual orientation, disability, or veteran status, underscoring its commitment to diversity and inclusion across its workforce. Sweetgreen supports continuous development opportunities for team members, offering career growth from restaurant roles to support center positions. Additionally, Sweetgreen participates in the federal E-Verify program to ensure employment eligibility and is committed to providing accommodations as required by law.

The Shift Leader role at Sweetgreen is a pivotal position responsible for supporting and leading day-to-day restaurant operations while embodying the company values on every shift. As a Shift Leader, you will foster an inclusive, upbeat environment where both guests and team members feel welcome and valued. This role entails stepping into various stations during peak hours or staffing shortages to maintain smooth operations, handling first-level customer concerns, especially related to food allergies, and ensuring accuracy and quality of orders. You will be responsible for multitasking and coordinating various operational aspects, from line management to technology use and customer interaction, requiring strong organizational skills and the ability to communicate clearly and effectively.

In addition to operational duties, the Shift Leader upholds stringent food safety and safety policy standards to protect guests and staff. Maintaining allergen awareness and enforcing proper procedures to avoid cross-contamination are crucial responsibilities. This role demands emotional regulation, staying calm and professional under pressure, and performance oversight that includes coaching and mentoring team members. The Shift Leader also executes Kitchen Lead duties, overseeing team operations comprehensively.

Sweetgreen values proven leadership experience, effective communication skills, and a demonstrated ability to foster positive team culture. The ideal candidate is highly organized, reliable, and experienced in scheduling and performance evaluation. Food Handler or ServSafe certification is preferred, reflecting the company’s commitment to food safety excellence. The role requires at least one year in a supervisory or shift leader capacity and experience in fast-paced environments such as restaurants, retail, or hospitality.

This position is typically part-time or full-time, requiring a minimum commitment of 30 hours per week, and is open to candidates authorized to work in the United States who are 18 years of age or older. Sweetgreen offers competitive wages with opportunities for raises as new skills are acquired, plus tips depending on location and role. Benefits include medical, dental, and vision plans, paid vacation and wellness time, paid parental leave, 401k plans, free shift meals, and access to an exclusive company gear store. Working at Sweetgreen means contributing not just to your career but also to a larger mission of environmental sustainability and healthier living communities.