How much does a Restaurant Shift Leader make?
A Restaurant Shift Leader plays a key role in managing daily operations. They oversee staff, ensure customer satisfaction, and help with the restaurant's success. The average yearly salary for this role is around $34,119. This salary can vary based on experience and location.
The salary range for a Restaurant Shift Leader can be quite broad. The lowest 10% earn about $26,000 per year. The highest 10% earn over $65,000 annually. Most shift leaders fall somewhere in the middle, earning between $29,545 and $61,455 each year. This range shows that there are good opportunities for growth and higher earnings with experience and skill.
What are the highest paying cities for a Restaurant Shift Leader?

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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $52,725
In San Jose, leading a restaurant team offers a dynamic work environment. With tech companies nearby, restaurants often see a steady flow of customers. Opportunities exist with prominent chains like Panera Bread and local favorites.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $51,820
Working in Washington, DC, means managing a bustling restaurant scene. The city's diverse population brings a variety of dining preferences. Positions are available with well-known establishments like The Capital Grille and local bistros.
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Honolulu, HI
Average Salary: $48,923
In Honolulu, leading a restaurant team means enjoying a laid-back yet vibrant atmosphere. The city's tourism draws many visitors. Opportunities exist with popular chains like TGI Fridays and local eateries.
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Chicago, IL
Average Salary: $48,764
Chicago offers a fast-paced restaurant environment with a rich culinary scene. The city's diverse food culture provides many opportunities. Positions can be found with famous spots like Giordano's and local favorites.
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Kansas City, MO
Average Salary: $47,320
In Kansas City, managing a restaurant team means working in a city known for its barbecue. The local food scene is vibrant. Opportunities include positions with chains like Applebee's and local barbecue joints.
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Denver, CO
Average Salary: $45,358
Denver's restaurant scene is lively, with a mix of casual and fine dining. The city's outdoor culture attracts many diners. Opportunities exist with popular chains like Red Robin and local restaurants.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $44,785
Los Angeles offers a diverse restaurant landscape with many opportunities. The city's entertainment industry brings a steady flow of customers. Positions can be found with chains like In-N-Out Burger and trendy local spots.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $43,310
In San Diego, leading a restaurant team means enjoying a coastal vibe. The city's tourism and military presence provide a steady customer base. Opportunities exist with popular chains like Chipotle and local eateries.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $42,653
Seattle's restaurant scene is vibrant, with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. The city's tech and maritime industries bring a diverse clientele. Opportunities include positions with chains like Starbucks and local coffee shops.
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Minneapolis, MN
Average Salary: $41,048
In Minneapolis, managing a restaurant team means working in a city known for its friendly locals. The city's diverse food culture offers many opportunities. Positions can be found with chains like Olive Garden and local favorites.
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What are the best companies a Restaurant Shift Leader can work for?

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Raising Cane's
Average Salary: $67,217
Raising Cane's offers competitive salaries for Restaurant Shift Leaders. They operate in many states across the U.S. and focus on providing a fast-casual dining experience. Shift Leaders here manage daily operations and ensure a high level of customer service.
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Captain D's Seafood Restaurant
Average Salary: $56,000
Captain D's Seafood Restaurant provides a good salary for Restaurant Shift Leaders. They have locations across the U.S. and specialize in seafood dishes. Shift Leaders here oversee kitchen staff, handle customer service, and ensure smooth operations.
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Panda Restaurant Group
Average Salary: $54,695
Panda Restaurant Group offers a solid salary for Restaurant Shift Leaders. They operate Panda Express and Hibachi-San locations nationwide. Shift Leaders manage daily restaurant activities, ensuring high standards of food quality and customer service.
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Taco Bell
Average Salary: $52,072
Taco Bell provides a competitive salary for Restaurant Shift Leaders. With locations across the U.S., they focus on fast-food Mexican cuisine. Shift Leaders here manage staff, handle customer service, and ensure restaurant cleanliness and efficiency.
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Jack in the Box
Average Salary: $42,972
Jack in the Box offers a decent salary for Restaurant Shift Leaders. They have locations across the U.S. and are known for their fast-food service. Shift Leaders manage restaurant operations, oversee staff, and ensure a positive customer experience.
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Cafe Yumm!
Average Salary: $42,383
Cafe Yumm! offers a fair salary for Restaurant Shift Leaders. They operate in several states and focus on providing a variety of food options. Shift Leaders here manage daily operations, ensure food quality, and provide excellent customer service.
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P.F. Chang's
Average Salary: $42,095
P.F. Chang's provides a good salary for Restaurant Shift Leaders. They have locations across the U.S. and specialize in Asian cuisine. Shift Leaders manage restaurant staff, handle customer service, and ensure a high standard of dining experience.
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Dunkin'
Average Salary: $38,813
Dunkin' offers a decent salary for Restaurant Shift Leaders. They have locations across the U.S. and are known for their coffee and baked goods. Shift Leaders manage daily operations, oversee staff, and ensure customer satisfaction.
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Panera Bread
Average Salary: $37,676
Panera Bread provides a fair salary for Restaurant Shift Leaders. They operate in many states and focus on fresh, made-to-order food. Shift Leaders manage restaurant staff, handle customer service, and ensure a welcoming dining experience.
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Chick-fil-A Restaurants
Average Salary: $37,504
Chick-fil-A Restaurants offer a competitive salary for Restaurant Shift Leaders. They have locations across the U.S. and are known for their chicken sandwiches. Shift Leaders manage restaurant operations, oversee staff, and ensure high customer service standards.
How to earn more as a Restaurant Shift Leader?
A Restaurant Shift Leader plays a key role in managing daily operations. This position offers opportunities for growth and increased earnings. By focusing on certain factors, a shift leader can enhance their performance and salary. These factors include building strong relationships with team members, improving time management skills, and taking on additional responsibilities.
First, developing strong relationships with team members can lead to a more cohesive and productive work environment. A shift leader who fosters good rapport with staff can motivate them to perform better. This can result in higher customer satisfaction and better overall performance. Second, improving time management skills helps in completing tasks more efficiently. This leads to smoother operations and can reduce overtime costs. Third, taking on additional responsibilities, such as training new staff or managing inventory, can demonstrate leadership skills. This can make a shift leader a valuable asset to the restaurant. Fourth, staying updated with industry trends and best practices can set a shift leader apart. This can lead to more effective management and higher earnings. Finally, seeking feedback and continuously improving can lead to better performance reviews and potential salary increases.
By focusing on these factors, a shift leader can increase their chances of earning more. This can lead to a rewarding career in the restaurant industry.
- Build strong relationships with team members.
- Improve time management skills.
- Take on additional responsibilities.
- Stay updated with industry trends.
- Seek feedback and continuously improve.



