Assistant Manager

Panda Express is a pioneering leader in the restaurant industry, renowned for its commitment to quality, innovation, and an inclusive workplace culture. Founded in 1983 in Glendale, California, Panda Express has grown to become the largest family-owned American Chinese restaurant concept in the United States, proudly operating close to 2,800 locations globally. This impressive growth reflects Panda’s dedication to delivering exceptional Asian dining experiences while fostering an environment where associates feel valued and empowered. The company embraces family values, investing heavily in both the personal and professional development of its associates, cultivating a community where teamwork, respect, and mutual support thrive.

The company is committed to offering ongoing career and leadership development opportunities, ensuring that every associate has access to comprehensive training programs, mentorship, and continuous education assistance including scholarships. Panda Express emphasizes creating a workplace culture that supports diversity, equity, and inclusion, bolstering a team that reflects the richness of the communities it serves. The company also supports associates through a robust benefits package, including health insurance options, 401K with company match, paid time off, and many others designed to offer security and peace of mind.

The role of Assistant Manager at Panda Express is an exciting and dynamic position, critical to the operational success of a single store. As an Assistant Manager, you will be entrusted with significant responsibilities, such as hiring, managing, and directing store associates to meet financial objectives and ensure an exceptional guest experience. This position demands both leadership and hands-on operational skills to successfully oversee day-to-day activities, foster a positive workplace culture, and drive business results. To prepare you for these responsibilities, Panda Express offers a paid leadership training program lasting three or more weeks, which provides essential skills and knowledge for store management.

Beyond management duties, the Assistant Manager role provides opportunities for continuous growth within the company, with clear pathways to higher-level management positions. This role also requires a flexible schedule, including the ability to work weekends and at various store locations within a 50-mile radius, ensuring that the team adapts smoothly to fluctuating business demands. The compensation for this role ranges from $26.5 to $29.5 per hour, with the potential to earn bonus incentives based on performance metrics.

Panda Express places a strong emphasis on health and safety standards, requiring all Assistant Managers to be Serve Safe certified, reflecting their commitment to food safety and quality. The fast-paced, sometimes physically demanding nature of the work environment requires effective communication, conflict management skills, and the ability to thrive in a dynamic, customer-focused setting. The company is also dedicated to providing reasonable accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act, reinforcing its inclusive employment practices.

In summary, working as an Assistant Manager at Panda Express is not just a job — it’s a career opportunity with an industry-leading company that values your growth, supports your aspirations, and rewards your contributions. The role offers comprehensive training, competitive pay, extensive benefits, and a chance to be part of a family-oriented organization that’s dedicated to making a positive impact on both associates and the communities it serves.