Shift leader, Restaurant​/Food Service

Pay Transparency

Earn between $17.00 and $17.50 plus digital tips*

Potbelly Sandwich Shop is looking for friendly and outgoing people who enjoy working in a fast‑paced, welcoming environment. Join our growing Potbelly Nation!

The Shift Leader leads and behaves according to Potbelly values. They will manage and develop associates to execute outstanding product quality and customer service, build sales and control costs for each shift.

• Competitive pay
• Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance
• Domestic Partnership Benefits
• Paid Parental Leave
• FSA and HSA with Employer Contribution
• Commuter Benefit Program
• Retirement Savings 401(k) with company match
• Employee Assistance Program
• Paid Time Off
• Discount Program
• Flexible Work Schedule
• Career growth opportunities

* If hired, you must meet and maintain all eligibility requirements to qualify

• Delighting customers with great food and good vibes
• Friendly, customer‑service oriented attitude
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Enjoyment of problem‑solving
• Ability to work in a fast‑paced, noisy environment
• Management of potential allergens (peanut, egg, dairy, gluten, soy, seafood, shellfish)
• Heat tolerance – knife skills are a plus
• At least 18 years old
• A minimum of 1 year supervisory experience in a restaurant or retail environment preferred
• Stand/walk for 8‑9 hours or as needed
• Lift up to 10 pounds frequently and up to 50 pounds occasionally
• Illinois applicants – food safety certification required within 30 days of employment

• Lead team members on shifts, including efficient assignment of tasks while providing feedback
• Ensure all security procedures are followed
• Ensure back‑of‑the‑house procedural standards are met
• Count drawers and follow proper daily cash handling procedures
• Prepare quality finished products (sandwiches, salads, soups, cookies, ice cream, etc.) efficiently
• Comply with health and safety standards for food, cleanliness and safety
• Restock food line, chips and cooler
• Clean tables, counters, floors, bathrooms, kitchen and utensils; take out trash
• Operate cash register: handle, balance and follow all cash handling procedures
• Effectively handle customer complaints/issues
• Other duties as assigned

All Shift Leaders and Managers must be trained and pass a Food Safety Certification course. In Illinois, certification is required through the Illinois Department of Public Health. In other states, certification is required through the National Restaurant Association Serv Safe, National Registry of Food Safety Professionals or the National Environmental Health Association (Prometric). Failure to pass the certification after two attempts will disqualify a Shift Leader or Manager from continuing in that capacity.

At Potbelly, we are committed to creating a welcoming and respectful environment where individuals are valued for their unique perspectives, backgrounds, and strengths. All employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business need.

We're an equal opportunity employer. Each applicant will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state or local law.

Applications must be submitted by 1/7/2026 to be considered for this position. The posting may close earlier if a suitable candidate is selected before the deadline.