The reason fast food restaurants can handle a large number of orders and influx of customers is perhaps the fact that they work on a shift basis.
Each shift has a shift leader, who is responsible for ensuring that all crew members work efficiently and that customers are given their orders in a timely manner. Shift leaders are important because a restaurant manager cannot possibly make sure that all systems are in place, without the help of shift leaders to look at the restaurant’s work with a microscope.
As a shift leader in a fast food establishment, there is a lot that you have to do. From creating schedules and work orders for each crewmember, to ensure that he or she carries out those orders to satisfaction, everything needs to be looked into.
Educational Requirements
You will need a high school diploma or a GED at the very least – associate’s degree is preferable – if you want to work as a shift leader. If you have had prior experience as a crewmember, or possess a degree in a culinary or hospitality area, you may be considered a good contender for the job.
Working as a shift leader means that you will be on your toes all the time, and that your eyes must be peeled constantly.
If this is the work that is right down your alley, have a look at the following list of duties particular to the job before you begin writing your resume to apply for a job:
Fast Food Shift Leader Job Description for Resume
• Create schedules for each crew member and ensure that he or she is working accordingly.
• Provide breaks to each crew member according to specified schedules and fill in as a crew member when necessary.
• Oversee the work of crew members to ensure delivery of fast and efficient service to each customer.
• Assist new crew members in understanding the system and handling POS or order-taking machines.
• Monitor wait times for customers, ensuring that no customer has to wait for longer than the time stipulated by the company.
• Train and develop new employees and ensure that they shadow experienced ones during the course of the shift.
• Assist with inventory control procedures to ensure that all needed supplies, kitchen utensils, and equipment are constantly available.
• Create and maintain effective liaison with vendors and suppliers to ensure timely delivery of supplies and equipment.
• Oversee the work of kitchen staff to ensure preparation of quality food items and provide insight into rotating stored items.
• Handle customers’ complaints and ensure that they are resolved in a timely manner.
• Oversee the closing and balancing of cash registers at the end of each shift and ensure that any issues are resolved immediately.