Assistant Manager

Panda Express is a preeminent leader in the fast-casual dining industry, renowned for offering high-quality American Chinese cuisine to millions of customers annually. Founded in 1983 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 worldwide. The company is deeply rooted in fostering a positive environment that prioritizes the professional and personal growth of its employees. Panda Express is committed to creating an inclusive culture where diversity is celebrated and where every associate is supported through mentorship, training, and a network of resources designed to ensure long-term career success. The company’s dedication to its workforce is a defining characteristic that promotes both individual development and collective achievement within its community.

The role of Assistant Manager at Panda Express is a critical position within the store management team, designed for experienced leaders who are passionate about operations and team management. As an Assistant Manager, you will be responsible for overseeing the daily functions of a single store, ensuring that all aspects of the business run smoothly and efficiently. Your key duties will include hiring, managing, and directing associates to meet both financial goals and deliver an exceptional guest experience. The position demands strong leadership skills, effective communication, and the ability to motivate a diverse team toward shared objectives. You will also be expected to engage in operational tasks to maintain the high standards of quality and service that Panda Express customers expect. No prior leadership experience is overlooked at Panda Express, as the company offers a comprehensive three-week (or more) paid Store Management Leadership Training program to prepare you for success and develop your leadership capabilities.

Moreover, the company emphasizes rewarding its team members with a generous compensation package that includes bonus opportunities, free meals during work, and a suite of health benefits such as medical, vision, dental, and voluntary disability and cancer income protection insurance for full-time associates. Additional financial benefits like a 401K retirement plan with company match, pre-tax dependent care flexible spending accounts, and paid time off including holidays and bereavement leave are offered to foster employee well-being and work-life balance. Panda Express also provides unique perks such as discounts on gym memberships and theme park tickets, alongside opportunities for employees to engage in community service. Continuous professional development is a cornerstone of the employer’s commitment, featuring on-going leadership training, career advancement opportunities, education assistance, comprehensive scholarships, and associate referral bonuses. This all-encompassing approach ensures that employees not only succeed but thrive within the Panda Express family.

Working as an Assistant Manager at Panda Express means being part of an energetic, fast-paced environment where adaptability and quick decision-making are crucial. The role requires physical stamina to operate in hot, busy kitchen environments, frequently standing for long periods, handling various kitchen tools safely, and being prepared to lift items up to 50 pounds. Panda Express is proud to maintain an ADA-compliant workspace and actively works to provide reasonable accommodations for those who need them, ensuring that all employees can contribute effectively and comfortably. The company champion’s equal opportunity employment and is committed to a non-discriminatory hiring process, welcoming applicants from all backgrounds.