Cook

Panda Restaurant Group, Inc. is a renowned leader in the American Chinese restaurant industry, proudly holding the title as the largest family-owned American Chinese restaurant concept in the United States since its inception in 1983. Founded in Glendale, California, Panda Restaurant Group has expanded to nearly 2,800 locations globally, cementing its position as a staple in the Asian dining experience sector. The company has built a strong reputation by consistently delivering exceptional food and service through an organization that prioritizes inspiring people to better their lives, embracing core family values, and deeply impacting both team members and the communities they serve.

At Panda, the emphasis is not just on great food but also on fostering an environment where employees – known as Panda Cook associates – are recognized as vital leaders and the heart of the kitchen. The company believes that its people form the core recipe for success, which drives its ongoing commitment to creating vibrant and welcoming atmospheres for guests. As a Cook at Panda, you step into a crucial role within a fast-paced, growth-oriented setting, where passion for food and service excellence is paramount. This position requires not only the ability to prepare dishes that meet rigorous company recipes and standards but also the capacity to guide and assist in training the kitchen team.

Cooks at Panda are entrusted with both culinary responsibilities and leadership duties, supporting the restaurant’s mission to provide an exceptional dining experience. The job involves performing all back-of-house functions, ensuring cleanliness, quality, and efficiency in food preparation, and maintaining a safe work environment. The role demands adaptability, effective communication skills, and the ability to thrive under pressure in a dynamic kitchen setting. Additionally, associates must comply with local municipal requirements such as obtaining a food handler certification when necessary.

The compensation for this role ranges from $25 to $28 per hour, with actual pay determined based on various factors, including location and prior experience. Panda strongly endorses a flexible work schedule, making it an attractive option for individuals seeking work-life balance alongside career growth opportunities. The company also offers comprehensive benefits for full-time associates, including medical, dental, vision, and various insurance coverages, 401K plans with company matching, paid time off, and numerous other perks.

Importantly, Panda is committed to inclusivity and equal opportunity employment. The company upholds federal, state, and local laws, alongside the Americans with Disabilities Act, ensuring a discrimination-free workplace where accommodations are provided to support applicants and employees when needed. This respectful and supportive culture allows associates to focus fully on their roles while contributing meaningfully to the company’s enduring success.

Joining Panda as a Cook means becoming part of a family-oriented organization dedicated to excellence in Asian cuisine and outstanding guest experiences. It offers an unparalleled platform for those passionate about cooking and leadership, with hands-on paid training, ongoing career and leadership development, and clear pathways for advancement. Whether starting out or enhancing existing culinary skills, associates are nurtured and empowered to grow professionally in a fast-evolving food service landscape.