LEAD Development Program Team Member

Chick-fil-A; Grand Rapids (MI); On-site; USD 52,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

Chick-fil-A is offering a two-year LEAD Leadership Development Program at the 28th & Beltline and Cascade locations in Grand Rapids. This hands-on, in-restaurant role is designed for recent graduates eager to grow as operational leaders.

You will lead teams, manage daily restaurant functions, and make decisions that directly impact business outcomes, learning through structured coaching and mentorship from Operators and directors.

Responsibilities

• Lead teams and manage day-to-day restaurant functions.
• Make decisions that directly impact business outcomes.
• Embed yourself in every aspect of restaurant operations—from kitchen to front-of-house.

Job description

Lead with Purpose. Grow from the Ground Up.

The LEAD Leadership Development Program at Chick-fil-A 28th & Beltline and Cascade is a dynamic, two-year, hands-on experience built for recent college graduates who are eager to develop as operational leaders. This is not a corporate office track—it’s an in-restaurant, operations-driven program where you’ll lead teams, manage day-to-day restaurant functions, and make decisions that directly impact business outcomes.

As a LEAD participant, you’ll be embedded in every aspect of restaurant operations. From mastering the fundamentals of kitchen and front-of-house execution to managing team performance and driving operational excellence, you’ll learn by doing. You’ll take on real leadership responsibilities from day one, supported by structured development, intentional coaching, and active mentorship from experienced Chick-fil-A Operators and directors. This program is designed to prepare you for a long-term leadership career—whether that’s pursuing Chick-fil-A franchise ownership, joining the Chick-fil-A Support Center, or stepping into leadership roles in other industries.

But it starts here: in the restaurant, with the people, the challenges, and the daily decisions that shape great leaders.

At Chick-fil-A 28th & Beltline and Cascade, we believe operational excellence is the foundation of great leadership. If you're ready to lead from the front and grow through real-world experience, LEAD will give you the tools and opportunities to do just that.

Working at a Chick-fil-A® restaurant is more than a job – it’s an opportunity for teamwork and leadership development in a positive, people-focused environment. Most Chick-fil-A restaurants are locally owned and operated by independent, franchised Operators who invest in the future of their Team Members and give back to their communities.