straw boss

n. Informal
A worker who acts as a boss or crew leader in addition to performing regular duties.

Underforeman or group leader having delegated authority to supervise others. Straw bosses often have no formal title or permanent status. Their supervisory activities are incidental to their production performance.

noun

Someone who directs and supervises workers: boss, director, foreman, foreperson, forewoman, head, manager, overseer, superintendent, supervisor, taskmaster, taskmistress. Slang chief. See over/under.

A subordinate boss, a worker who supervises other workers as well as performing regular duties. For example, Jim was pleased when he was promoted to straw boss. This term alludes to the person's position as a straw man, that is, a front or cover for the real boss and of only nominal importance. [Late 1800s]

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The noun has one meaning:

Meaning #1: a member of a work gang who supervises the other workers
  Synonym: assistant foreman

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