Shift Lead

Pizzeria Maria is a family‑owned, quality‑driven, and fast‑growing pizzeria in Sparta, MI. We’re serious about dough, bake, and consistency, and we’re actively expanding the Pizzeria Maria brand into new locations. We believe in promoting managers from within, and we’re looking for Shift Leads who want a real path to management—not just a title.

The Role – Shift Lead

The Shift Lead is the on‑duty leader for their shift. You’ll be on the floor and at the line, making sure tickets move, pizzas meet our standards, and the team stays organized and focused. This is our primary stepping‑stone into full management as we grow.

You will help the General Manager with:

• Running smooth, on‑time shifts from open to close
• Keeping product quality, speed, and cleanliness to Pizzeria Maria standards
• Directing the team during busy times and resets during slower times
• Training and supporting newer team members
• Communicating issues, needs, and wins to management and ownership

What You’ll Do

• Lead by example on the line: making pies, cutting, boxing, and jumping on phones or counter when needed
• Run pre‑shift huddles when assigned (who is on which station, specials, and goals for the shift)
• Watch ticket times and call out priorities to keep service moving
• Help enforce portion control, recipes, and proper product handling
• Make sure the store stays clean and organized during the shift and at close
• Handle basic customer issues and escalate bigger problems to management
• Help with simple closing paperwork, deposits, and checklists when needed

What We’re Looking For

• Prior experience in a pizzeria or fast‑casual restaurant is preferred (but a strong worker ready to step up will be considered)
• Natural leader: people tend to follow your pace and energy
• Reliable and steady under pressure, especially on busy nights
• Comfortable giving direction and reminders to coworkers in a respectful way
• Takes pride in doing things the right way every time, not cutting corners
• Willing and able to work evenings and weekends
• Interested in learning more about scheduling, food cost, and management as we expand

What We Offer

• Competitive hourly pay with a Shift Lead premium
• Family‑owned environment where you work directly with ownership, not a corporate call center
• Clear responsibilities and real input during your shifts
• A defined growth path: our goal is to promote future Assistant Managers and General Managers from strong Shift Leads as Pizzeria Maria opens additional locations
• Training and coaching from the General Manager and owner
• A serious but supportive team that cares about the food, the work, and each other

Who This Is Perfect For

• A strong crew member who’s already the “go‑to” person on shift and wants the title and responsibility to match
• Someone who loves being in the middle of the action and keeping things organized
• A future manager who wants to grow with a family‑owned company that promotes from within as it expands

How to Apply

Stop in to Pizzeria Maria or send a short message with:

• Your name and best contact info
• A brief work history or resume
• 2–3 sentences on why you’d be a good Shift Lead at Pizzeria Maria

Pay: $18.00 - $20.00 per hour

Work Location: In person