Assistant Restaurant Manager at Panda Express

SSP America is a leading operator of food and beverage outlets in travel locations such as airports and train stations, providing diverse dining options for millions of travelers annually. Serving as its flagship brand, Panda Express offers bold Chinese-inspired cuisine with a reputation for high-quality, flavorful dishes served in a dynamic and fast-paced environment. The Salt Lake City Airport location represents an exciting opportunity to join a globally recognized restaurant brand within one of the busiest travel hubs in the western United States. SSP America prides itself on offering career progression pathways, comprehensive benefits, and the opportunity to work in vibrant settings that challenge and reward employees at every level.

The Assistant Manager role at Panda Express in Salt Lake City Airport is a pivotal position designed for a proactive retail management professional who thrives under pressure and understands how to lead a team towards excellence in customer service and operational efficiency. This leadership role encompasses managing all retail and customer service activities, supervising a team of Retail Travel Experts, and directly influencing the guest experience while ensuring Panda Express brand standards are upheld. The Assistant Manager will oversee operational facets such as merchandising, inventory, scheduling, and budgeting, playing a key role in driving sales and ensuring smooth daily operations.

The role requires the successful candidate to participate in a six-week paid training program with Panda Express at a street-side location after hiring, equipping them with the specialized skills and knowledge needed to manage effectively. This training reinforces Panda Express’s commitment to staff development and operational excellence. The Assistant Manager will be entrusted to foster a collaborative, efficient work environment emphasizing team development, including recruitment, training, setting performance goals, and providing feedback and disciplinary action when necessary.

Candidates should bring a minimum of two years’ supervisory experience within a restaurant setting, proficiency in computer literacy inclusive of Microsoft Office and POS systems, and strong interpersonal skills tailored to liaising across various organizational levels, including executives, team members, and customers. The role demands an individual who can manage complex problem-solving scenarios, maintain merchandising and display standards, and handle administrative responsibilities like payroll and purchasing.

With a competitive salary range between $58,000 and $60,000 per year, alongside opportunities for quarterly and year-end bonuses, this position offers substantial financial rewards. Additionally, SSP America provides a comprehensive benefits package that includes health, dental, vision, and life insurance plans, paid time off, a 401K plan with company matching, and an employee assistance program. These benefits are designed to support employee wellbeing and professional growth, helping the Assistant Manager to thrive both at work and beyond.

Working in the bustling environment of the Salt Lake City Airport, the Assistant Manager will experience high visibility and fast-moving challenges that make every day unique. This position is ideal for motivated individuals who enjoy retail management, stock control, customer interaction, and team leadership within a reputable international brand. The role represents not only a job but a career step for those passionate about the food service industry and eager to align with a global brand focused on innovation and customer satisfaction.