Program Manager, Development Standards & Initiatives

Our secret to leading the way in hospitality? We put our people first!

At Shake Shack, our mission is to Stand For Something Good in all that we do. From our teams to our neighborhoods, we're committed to always doing the right thing. As one of the fastest-growing hospitality brands, we're all about crafting unforgettable experiences for our guests. We offer endless learning opportunities and the chance to make a lasting impact on our business, restaurants, and communities. As a member of the #ShackFam, you’ll have access to hands-on mentorship, training, and growth potential, all in a fun and inclusive environment.

Join us and Be a Part of Something Good.

Job Summary

This role contributes to Shake Shack’s success by managing, maintaining, and evolving our brand standards, prototypes, and development initiatives. Reporting to the Sr. Director of Design & Development, this role will serve as a key point of contact for cross-functional initiatives, and the role’s output will support scalability, guest experience, and Shake Shack’s cost, schedule, and pipeline objectives. 

Job Responsibilities and Duties

Brand Standards Management

• Maintain and regularly update Shake Shack’s development standards and directives 

• Lead monthly Directives Committee Meeting

• Ensure consistent application of brand standards across all new builds, remodels, and special projects

• Serve as subject matter expert on our built environment and brand integrity 

Prototype Development

• Own and evolve Drive Thru & Core Shack prototype documentation in collaboration with Design, Construction, Operations, and other cross-functional stakeholders

• Integrate new design solutions, operational feedback, and innovation into Shake Shack’s prototypes

• Manage the production and coordination of design and construction documents created by internal designers and external consultants (including Architects, MEP Engineers, Kitchen Designers, Structural and Civil Engineers).

• Ensure all drawings and specifications reflect current standards, ADA compliance, and Shake Shack’s design intent.

• Lead the change management process for prototypes and documentation updates.

Special Initiatives

• Lead and support cross-functional projects focused on innovation, efficiency, and scalability in restaurant development.

• Manage pilot programs and rollouts of new layouts, equipment, and technologies.

• Ensure projects are executed within established timelines, capital expenditure budgets, and strategic objectives.

Communication & Collaboration

• Develop and maintain clear documentation, workflows, and toolkits to support internal teams and external partners.

• Facilitate internal training and cross-functional alignment around changes to standards or procedures.

• Collaborate closely with Design, Construction, Procurement, IT, Operations, and external partners.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities

• Highly organized, proactive and self-motivated individual with excellent project management skills

• Expert written and verbal communicator

• Skilled at balancing input from multiple stakeholders and driving alignment toward clear, actionable outcomes

• Strong ability to manage through evolving projects or processes

• Confident decision-maker who can escalate, influence, and resolve complex issues

• Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to build relationships and trust across diverse teams

• Solid understanding of architectural drawings, construction documents, and the design development process

• Strong design sensibility with an eye for detail and a commitment to brand integrity in the built environment

• Comfortable managing external consultants and internal contributors to meet quality and timeline expectations

• Knowledge of ADA compliance and accessibility best practices in retail/restaurant environments

• Financially minded with the ability to manage projects and documentation within capital budget parameters

• Able to manage multiple projects and shifting priorities in a fast-paced, high-growth environment

• Proficiency in Excel, PowerPoint, and SharePoint is required

• Proficiency in Bluebeam is required

• Proficiency in AutoCAD, SketchUp, and Adobe Creative Suite is preferred

• Proficiency in Microsoft Project and/or Smartsheet is preferred. 

• Domestic travel required

Requirements

Education Requirements

Bachelor's Degree

Education or Certificate Details

Degree in Architecture, Interior Design, Construction Management, Engineering or Related Field

Work Experience

4-6 years

Supervisory Experience

1-3 years

Related Experience

• 3+ years of related experience in restaurant, retail, commercial development, or design project management

• Experience developing and maintaining brand standards, prototypes, or design guidelines

• Experience with rollout programs (multi-unit development or franchise expansion is a plus)

• Experience managing capital projects and working within defined budget parameters

• Experience working with external consultants such as architects, MEP, structural, and civil engineers

• Experience conducting design or constructability reviews and incorporating feedback into drawings or standards

• Experience supporting pilot projects, innovation initiatives, or process improvements in physical development

• Experience managing document control systems and change management processe

• Experience in hospitality operations or with brands that balance design integrity and operational efficiency is a plus

Physical Requirements

Precise hand/eye coordination

Basic keyboarding or other repetitive motions

Lifting/pushing objects weighing over 10 lbs.

Benefits at Shake Shack:

A work environment where you can come as you are, share your ideas, have fun, and work collaboratively:

• Weekly Pay and Performance bonuses

• Shake Shack Meal Discounts

• Exclusive corporate discounts for travel, electronics, wellness, leisure activities and more

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance*

• Employer Paid Life and Disability Insurance*

• 401k Plan with Company Match*

• Paid Time Off*

• Paid Parental Leave*

• Access to Employee Assistance Program on Day 1

• Pre-Tax Commuter and Parking Benefits

• Flexible Spending and Dependent Care Accounts*

• Development and Growth Opportunities

*Eligibility criteria applies

Click the "Apply" button above to apply for this opening.

About Us

Beginning as a hot dog cart in New York City’s Madison Square Park, Shake Shack was created by Danny Meyer, Founder and CEO of Union Square Hospitality Group and best-selling author of Setting the Table. Shack Fans lined up daily, making the cart a resounding success, and donating all proceeds back to the park beautification efforts.  A permanent stand was eventually built…and the rest is Shack history! With our roots in fine dining and giving back to the community, we are committed to high quality food served with a high level of hospitality. Our team members enjoy a positive work environment that is deeply committed to the philosophy that we "Stand for Something Good."

Shake Shack is an Equal Opportunity Employer 

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to any protected characteristic, including race, color, ancestry, national origin, religion, creed, age, disability (mental and physical), sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, gender expression, medical condition, genetic information, marital, military and veteran status.