A shift leader is a higher level, hourly employee who helps to manage employees on the front lines at a restaurant, retailer, or convenience store. In this role, you supervise other employees when the manager of the facility is not in the building during your shift. The focus of a shift leader is on customer service and quality control, but you must also ensure that the staff can complete their duties and responsibilities efficiently. In some cases, you may be in charge of cash management in addition to your supervisory duties.