What does a Shift Manager 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.

What responsibilities are common for Shift Manager jobs?
  • 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
What are the typical qualifications for Shift Manager jobs?
  • 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
EducationBachelor's Degree
Work/Life Balance
3.0 ★
Total Pay--
Career Opportunity
3.2 ★
Avg. Experience8+ years

How much does a Shift Manager make near United States?

Confident
$49,752 /yr
Total Pay
$46,035
 /yr

Base Pay

+
$3,717
 /yr

Additional Pay

$49,752

 / yr
$34K$74K
Most Likely Range
Possible Range
See More Insights

Shift Manager Career Path

Learn how to become a Shift Manager, what skills and education you need to succeed, and what level of pay to expect at each step on your career path.

Shift Manager
$49,752/yr
Senior Shift Manager
$65,172/yr
Shift Manager

Years of Experience Distribution

0 - 1
23%
2 - 4
12%
5 - 7
1%
8+
64%
Not including years spent in education and/or training

Shift Manager Insights

Read what Shift Manager professionals have to say about their job experiences and view top companies for this career.
WalgreensWalgreens
Shift Lead
Sep 3, 2023

“That area gas some of the best people to work with plus my manager was an awesome and fair person.”

Philip Morris InternationalPhilip Morris International
Shift Supervisor
Apr 11, 2022

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

Dunkin'Dunkin'
Shift Leader
Sep 23, 2023

“Not really any downsides that I know but with some of the workers is having to work long hours during holidays”

EZPAWNEZPAWN
Shift Lead/Pawn Broker
Jan 15, 2022

“Yes it was a good little portion out but the flex paying card was the best!!!”

Bojangles'Bojangles'
Shift Leader
Nov 13, 2021

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

CoreLife EateryCoreLife Eatery
Shift Supervisor
Dec 28, 2021

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

Marcus TheatresMarcus Theatres
Shift Lead
Jun 5, 2022

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

CVS HealthCVS Health
Shift Supervisor
Jan 18, 2022

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

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Shift Manager Interviews

Frequently asked questions about the roles and responsibilities of a Shift Manager

When working as a Shift Manager, the most common skills you will need to perform your job and for career success are Buffing, Sanding, Dexterity, Strong WORK Ethic, and Written Communication.

The most similar professions to Shift Manager are:
  • Manager
  • Regional Manager
  • General Manager
  • District Manager

The most common qualifications to become a Shift Manager include a minimum of a Bachelor's Degree and an average of 0 - 1 years of experience not including years spent in education and/or training.

Related Careers

Manager
$93,238
No skills overlap
Regional Manager
$116,078
13% skills overlap
General Manager
$99,216
No skills overlap
District Manager
$112,614
13% skills overlap

Shift Manager Jobs