Shift leader, Restaurant​/Food Service

Join Potbelly Sandwich Works as a Shift Leader. Earn between $17.25 and $17.75 per hour plus digital tips.

The Shift Leader leads and behaves according to Potbelly values, managing and developing 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

• Friendly and customer service oriented
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Problem‑solving ability
• Comfortable with high noise levels from music, customers, and employees
• Enjoys a fast‑paced environment
• Able to manage potential allergens (peanut, egg, dairy, gluten, soy, seafood, shellfish)
• Can handle kitchen heat; knife skills are a plus
• At least 18 years old
• Minimum of 1 year supervisory experience in a restaurant or retail environment preferred
• Must stand/walk >8–9 hours and lift up to 10 pounds frequently, up to 50 pounds occasionally
• Illinois applicants must become food‑safety certified within 30 days of employment

• Lead team members on shifts, assigning tasks and providing feedback
• Ensure all security procedures are followed
• Ensure back‑of‑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 obtain and pass a Food Safety Certification course. In Illinois, certification is required through the Illinois Department of Public Health; elsewhere through Serv Safe®, National Registry of Food Safety Professionals or National Environmental Health Association (Prometric). Failure to pass after two attempts disqualifies the candidate from continuing in the role.

Potbelly is 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.

Final date to receive applications:
Submit by 1/30/2026. The posting may close earlier if a suitable candidate is selected before the deadline.