Job Path

At any one of her shifts at Shake Shack, Maria Z. might be restocking in the dining room, cleaning up, greeting guests, or - as someone with years of experience - training new employees.

“I like all the different roles I play. I like how I have to wear different hats throughout my shift - I’m everywhere! Plus, I’m very social; I really like to talk to people.”

Not long ago, Maria celebrated 10 years at one of Shake Shack’s Queens locations - an accomplishment that she says makes her want to “dance up a storm.” Maria’s supervisor Luis Duran praised her for being empathetic, hospitable, and always willing to go above and beyond for both guests and other team members.

“She brings a positive attitude and really lifts everyone around her,” he says.

When it comes to her role training new staff, he says: “She’s exceptional because she breaks down every task step-by-step, ensuring every new team member feels confident. She also gives plenty of feedback, making sure everyone masters each station before moving on.”

Shake Shack is one of the most active employer partners for The Consortium for Customized Employment. Since the partnership began in 2012, CCE has been responsible for 44 jobs at 19 shacks in 4 boroughs, Long Island, and Hoboken, NJ.

Congratulations to Maria and Shake Shack!

CCE is a project of Job Path that brings together 14 New York City social service agencies to expand the reach of customized employment to serve even more New Yorkers with developmental disabilities.