Assistant Manager

Panda Express is a prominent leader in the fast-casual Asian dining industry, known for its commitment to delivering exceptional dining experiences while fostering a supportive and growth-oriented work environment for its employees. Founded in 1983 in Glendale, California, Panda Express has grown to become the largest family-owned American Chinese Restaurant concept in the United States, boasting close to 2,800 locations globally. The company’s mission centers around inspiring its people to improve their lives, both personally and professionally, and providing guests with high-quality, flavorful Asian cuisine. Panda Express strongly embraces family values and strives to impact not only its team members but also the communities it serves.

Working at Panda Express means joining an organization that prioritizes diversity, equity, and inclusion, ensuring a welcoming atmosphere for all associates regardless of their background. The company operates under a strong set of principles that emphasize teamwork, leadership development, and continuous learning. With a dedicated focus on professional growth, Panda Express offers comprehensive paid leadership training programs, mentorship, and ongoing career development opportunities to prepare team members for successful management careers within the organization.

This role of Assistant Manager at Panda Express involves directly supporting the operations of a single store to ensure financial success and the delivery of outstanding guest experiences. As an Assistant Manager, you will be responsible for hiring, managing, and directing store associates. You will play a crucial role in fostering a positive workplace culture that values teamwork, efficiency, and customer satisfaction. To aid in your success, Panda Express provides a thorough store leadership training program that lasts three or more weeks, equipping you with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in managing a busy and dynamic restaurant environment.

The position requires strong leadership abilities, effective communication skills, and the ability to multitask in a fast-paced setting. You will oversee daily operations, manage inventory, ensure compliance with food safety standards including Serve Safe certification, and contribute to maintaining a clean and safe work environment. Flexibility is essential, as the role may require working various shifts including weekends and the ability to work at any Panda Express location within a 50-mile radius.

Panda Express values its associates and offers a generous compensation package that includes competitive pay with bonus opportunities, free meals during work shifts, comprehensive medical benefits including vision and dental coverage, various insurance options, and a 401K plan with company match. Beyond financial rewards, the company encourages work-life balance through paid time off, paid holidays, bereavement leave, and a leave share program. Additional perks include discounts on theme parks and gym memberships, community involvement opportunities, and hands-on training alongside experienced leaders. There is also support for continuous education and scholarships, as well as a lucrative associate referral bonus program.

Importantly, Panda Express is committed to providing a safe and inclusive work environment. The role involves physical demands such as standing for extended periods, lifting up to 50 lbs, and working in a hot and noisy kitchen environment. Adaptability and conflict management skills are critical for success in this role. The company complies fully with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and provides reasonable accommodations to ensure all qualified individuals can participate effectively in the application, hiring, and employment process.

Joining Panda Express as an Assistant Manager means becoming part of a company that values each team member as part of its family and prioritizes their development and success. The company's culture, benefits, and growth opportunities make it an attractive career choice for those looking to advance in the restaurant management industry within a supportive and well-established organization.