Restaurant Shift Leader - Unit 1060

Whataburger Restaurants; United States; On-site; USD 40,000 - 50,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive weekly pay

Flexible schedules

Paid time off

401(k) match

Medical benefits

Career development opportunities

Education support

Discounted meals

Recognition awards

Job summary

Whataburger Restaurants in San Clemente is seeking a Shift Leader to ensure smooth restaurant operations and team collaboration. This role involves coaching team members, maintaining standards, and supporting performance goals while providing a positive work culture.

Candidates should be at least 18 years old and preferably possess a high school diploma or equivalent. Full availability and strong leadership skills are essential, along with the ability to meet physical demands.

Qualifications

• At least 18 years of age.
• Open availability, including overnights, weekends, and holidays.
• Ability to stand up to 10 hours and lift up to 55 lbs.

Responsibilities

• Lead shift management to maintain quality and cleanliness standards.
• Coach and motivate team members.
• Support goals related to food and labor costs.

Skills

Customer service

Communication

Multitasking

Education

High school diploma/GED

Tools

ServSafe Food Certification

Job description

What You’ll Do

As a Shift Leader, you’re the spark that keeps the restaurant firing on all cylinders. You’ll make a difference by driving operational excellence and keeping every shift running smooth as melted cheese. You’ll serve with heart as you help family members grow — coaching them to ketchup on skills and build confidence. You’ll win as one by stirring up collaboration and energizing the team during rushes. And you’ll move forward boldly as you flip challenges into opportunities and grow your leadership toolbox. You’ll partner hand‑in‑hand with your Restaurant Manager team as you sharpen leadership skills, build shift‑management capability, and strengthen your operational foundation.

Pay & Perks

• Competitive weekly pay


• Flexible schedules – day, night/evening & overnight shifts available


• Paid time off*


• 401(k) match $1/$1 up to 4%


• Competitive medical, dental, vision benefits*


• Short‑term and long‑term disability benefits*


• Opportunities for career development and growth – a clear career path to a six‑figure income (our Operating Partners can earn six figures!)


• Whataburger Family Foundation – scholarship program (dependents eligible) and hardship grant assistance


• Comprehensive education support, including free English‑language learning, no‑cost college‑level courses, and reduced‑tuition degree pathways


• Discounted meals for you and a guest, wireless service discounts, computer & software discounts, fitness/gym discounts


• Awards and recognition for all you do


• Retirement celebration program

Responsibilities

• Lead shift management to maintain quality, service, and cleanliness standards.


• Coach, train, and motivate family members—helping new hires ketchup quickly and seasoned pros turn up the heat.


• Support goals related to food cost, labor cost, sales performance, and basic inventory processes.


• Uphold food safety, workplace safety, sanitation, and compliance requirements.


• Foster teamwork, communication, accountability, and a positive work culture.


• Prepare, lead, and transition shift operations to keep the restaurant running like a well‑oiled fryer.

Required Experience / Qualifications

• At least 18 years of age.


• High school diploma/GED preferred or equivalent experience.


• Open availability, including overnights, weekends, holidays, variable hours, and dependable attendance.


• Ability to stand up to 10 hours, lift up to 55 lbs., and meet physical demands.


• Experience coaching or leading teams; strong customer service, communication, and multitasking skills.


• ServSafe Food Certification (or ability to obtain and pass the exam during training).

How You’ll Work

This role is based in your home restaurant, where you’ll spend most of your time leading your team and supporting daily operations. At times, you may be asked to assist at neighboring locations or provide leadership support within the market. You may also take part in business meetings, training opportunities, and leadership sessions that help you grow and stay connected to the broader Whataburger organization.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Whataburger is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, genetic information, disability, veteran status, age, or other condition or status protected by law.

Whataburger participates in the federal E‑Verify Program. For more information go to www.dhs.gov/E-Verify. E‑Verify is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. *Eligibility rules may apply