What is split shift?

A split shift breaks one day’s work into separate blocks with a gap in between that is longer than a normal meal or rest break. The employee is off the clock and unpaid during the gap, then returns to finish the day.

Split shifts are common in restaurants because demand comes in waves — a midday lunch rush and an evening dinner rush with a slow afternoon in between. Scheduling staff for only the busy windows controls labor cost, but it can be hard on employees who have to structure their whole day around two trips to work.

Some jurisdictions require a “split-shift premium” — an extra hour of pay (often at minimum wage) when an employee works a split shift — so check your state and local rules before building split schedules.

Frequently asked questions