Assistant Manager

Panda Express is a nationally recognized American fast casual restaurant chain specializing in American Chinese cuisine. Established in 1983 and headquartered in Glendale, California, Panda Express has grown to become the largest family-owned American Chinese restaurant concept in the United States, with close to 2,800 locations globally. This impressive network of restaurants reflects the company’s commitment to delivering exceptional Asian dining experiences to a diverse customer base. Panda Express prides itself on creating an inclusive and family-oriented work environment that fosters the professional and personal development of its associates. Embracing a strong culture of mentorship and continuous learning, Panda invests heavily in training programs that prepare team members for successful long-term careers in the food service industry. The company culture emphasizes family values, community involvement, and responsible business practices, positioning Panda Express as a beloved employer and community partner.

The role of Assistant Manager at Panda Express places you at the heart of the operation, responsible for assisting in the overall management and success of a single store. This position plays a vital role in ensuring daily store operations run smoothly while driving financial performance and maintaining a high standard of guest experience. As an Assistant Manager, you will lead the hiring process, manage and direct associates, and collaborate with the store leadership team to meet or exceed operational goals. To ensure you are fully equipped for success, Panda Express offers a thorough paid Store Management Leadership Training program lasting at least three weeks, focusing on practical skills, leadership development, and effective store management. This paid training builds a strong foundation in all facets of store operation, from staff management to customer service excellence.

The role demands flexibility and the readiness to work within a 50-mile radius of the store location, accommodating varied shift schedules including weekends. Candidates should be certified in food safety (Serve Safe certification) and possess the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment characterized by heat, noise, and restricted workspaces common to restaurant kitchens. This position requires physical stamina, including standing for long hours, lifting heavy items, and performing food preparation with precision and speed.

Compensation for this role ranges from $26.50 to $29.50 per hour, dependent on experience and location, and includes additional bonus opportunities. Panda Express provides an attractive benefits package that supports full-time associates’ health, financial well-being, and work-life balance. Highlights of these benefits include medical, vision, and dental insurance, voluntary short-term disability, and cancer income protection, all designed to protect employees and their families. The 401K plan with company matching encourages long-term financial planning, while paid holidays, paid time off, bereavement leave, and a leave share program reflect the company’s caring culture. Additional perks such as free meals during shifts, discounts on gym memberships, theme parks, hands-on career development, leadership training, and continuous education assistance create a thoroughly supportive and rewarding work environment.

Panda Express is an equal opportunity employer, committed to providing an inclusive work environment free of discrimination. The company adheres strictly to federal and state laws regarding workplace accommodations for employees with disabilities and provides reasonable accommodations to support applicants and associates. Working at Panda Express means joining a passionate community dedicated to excellence in hospitality, leadership growth, and the empowering of individuals to better their lives within and beyond the workplace.