Assistant Manager

Panda Express, founded in Glendale, California, is the largest family-owned American Chinese restaurant concept in the United States. Since its inception in 1983, Panda Express has expanded to nearly 2,800 locations worldwide, providing exceptional Asian dining experiences to millions of customers. As a company deeply rooted in family values, Panda Express emphasizes professional growth, personal well-being, and community impact. The organization prides itself on fostering an inclusive and supportive workplace where employees are empowered to better their lives and careers. Panda Express is committed to equal opportunity employment and maintains a non-discriminatory policy that adheres to federal, state, and local laws, ensuring workplace accommodations for individuals with disabilities.

The Assistant Manager role at Panda Express is a vital position within the store management team, responsible for supporting the operation of a single store with a focus on leadership, financial success, and delivering outstanding guest experiences. This position entails managing and directing associates, overseeing hiring, ensuring operational excellence, and achieving financial goals. Panda Express provides exceptional onboarding and development opportunities, including a comprehensive paid Store Management Leadership Training program lasting three weeks or more, mentorship, and ongoing career and leadership development. The position offers a competitive hourly pay range of $22.5 to $25.5, with individual compensation influenced by location and experience.

Assistant Managers at Panda Express enjoy a collaborative and dynamic work environment that challenges them to thrive in fast-paced settings requiring adaptability, effective communication, and conflict management. The role includes hands-on involvement in day-to-day operations, staff training, and maintaining food safety standards—specifically being Serve Safe certified. Employees must demonstrate the capability to manage physical demands such as standing for extended periods, lifting heavy objects, and working in a kitchen environment that frequently involves heat, noise, and space constraints.

Beyond compensation, Panda Express offers a generous benefits package to full-time associates, including medical, vision, dental, voluntary short-term disability, and cancer income protection insurance. Other valuable benefits include a 401K plan with company match, pre-tax dependent care flexible spending account, paid time off, paid holidays, bereavement/funeral leave, and Leave Share Program. Employees also receive free meals during shifts, discounts on theme parks and gym memberships, opportunities for community involvement, and continuous education assistance with scholarships. An associate referral bonus and income protection insurance, including disability, life, and accidental death and dismemberment (AD&D) coverage, further enhance the overall employment experience.

Working as an Assistant Manager at Panda Express is more than just a job; it’s a career path with growth potential into higher management roles, supported by a nurturing community and robust resources. The company values the success and well-being of its associates, making it an ideal place for motivated leaders eager to contribute to a thriving business with a family-oriented culture. Individuals interested must possess a high school diploma, flexibility to work in stores within a 50-mile radius, and a flexible schedule, including weekends. Food safety certification and the ability to meet physical job demands are also required. Panda Express welcomes applicants from diverse backgrounds and is dedicated to providing reasonable accommodations throughout the hiring process upon request.