Assistant Manager

Panda Express is a renowned leader in the fast-casual dining industry, specializing in American Chinese cuisine. Established in 1983 in Glendale, California, Panda Express has grown to become the largest family-owned American Chinese restaurant concept in the United States with nearly 2,300 locations worldwide. The company is firmly committed to fostering an environment where associates feel supported both professionally and personally, embodying a family-oriented culture that promotes growth, mentorship, and community involvement. Panda Express is known for delivering exceptional Asian dining experiences by building a team that is inspired to improve their lives and make meaningful contributions to their communities. Their reputation for quality and service is backed by comprehensive training programs and a strong leadership development philosophy.

The role of Assistant Store Manager at Panda Express is a pivotal position within their store management team. It involves assisting in the day-to-day operations of a single Panda Express store, which includes overseeing the recruitment, management, and direction of associates to achieve both the store’s financial objectives and the highest standards of guest experience. This role is critical to the success of the store, requiring leadership skills, operational knowledge, and a customer-centric approach. To prepare candidates for success, Panda provides a paid store leadership training program lasting three or more weeks, ensuring that new managers are well-equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to lead effectively.

Assistant Managers are responsible for driving store performance by managing staff, supporting operational excellence, ensuring compliance with food safety standards, and delivering quality guest service. The schedule is flexible, with a requirement to work weekends and possibly other varied hours, reflecting the dynamic nature of the restaurant business. The position offers a competitive salary range of $22 to $25 per hour, with individual pay depending on factors such as location and experience.

Further benefits of working at Panda Express include free meals during shifts, a generous compensation plan including potential bonuses, comprehensive medical, vision, dental, and disability insurance coverage for full-time associates, a 401k plan with company matching, paid time off, holidays, bereavement leave, and more. Employees also have access to discounts on theme parks and gym memberships, continuous education assistance, scholarship opportunities, and the chance to participate in community giving initiatives. Career development is emphasized through ongoing training, mentorship, and opportunities for advancement within the management ranks.

The physical demands of the role include working in a fast-paced environment with exposure to heat and noise. Employees must be able to stand for extended periods, lift up to 50 pounds, and handle food preparation tasks safely and accurately. Effective verbal communication, adaptability to changing priorities, and conflict management are crucial skills for success. Panda Express values diversity and inclusivity, being an Equal Opportunity Employer that complies with all laws regarding workplace accommodation and non-discrimination practices. They actively invite candidates of all backgrounds to apply and provide accommodations to ensure an equitable hiring process.