Cook

Panda Restaurant Group, Inc. is a leading family-owned American Chinese restaurant company recognized for its rich heritage and dedication to delivering exceptional Asian dining experiences. Founded in 1983 in Glendale, California, the company has expanded its footprint globally with nearly 2,800 locations, marking it as one of the largest family-owned restaurant concepts in the country. Panda Restaurant Group prides itself on being more than just a restaurant company; it focuses on building an organization where team members are inspired to improve their lives, embodying strong family values. The restaurants serve as the heart and soul of the company, emphasizing community involvement, employee growth, and delivering memorable dining experiences to guests.

The position of Cook at Panda Restaurant Group is pivotal within the kitchen team and carries considerable leadership responsibility. As a Cook, you will be entrusted with crafting food with passion while maintaining service that reflects heartfelt commitment and pride in the ambiance you help create for guests. This role is ideal for individuals thriving in fast-paced, dynamic environments who appreciate teamwork and a growth-oriented setting. The role requires hands-on involvement in all aspects of kitchen operations and encourages active participation in mentoring and guiding fellow kitchen staff. Cooks contribute to maintaining the high standards that define Panda's menu offerings, ensuring every dish meets established recipes and quality benchmarks.

The hourly pay for this role ranges from $22 to $25, with exact compensation dependent on location and experience. Panda offers flexible schedules, comprehensive benefits for full-time associates, and numerous growth opportunities, including career and leadership development with pathways leading to management positions. The company supports an inclusive environment, offering reasonable accommodations during the hiring process and employment to qualified individuals with disabilities.

Cook associates will support creating vibrant, welcoming guest environments, prepare dishes consistent with company recipes and quality standards, assist in training and guiding kitchen team members, and fulfill all back-of-house responsibilities. This hands-on role is physical and demands standing for extended periods, working in hot and sometimes noisy settings, and lifting up to 50 pounds safely. Employees are expected to be adaptable, communicate effectively, and manage challenges within a fast-changing environment. The company underscores the importance of safety with requirements such as food handler certifications and local health compliance, obtained independently by applicants.

Panda Restaurant Group not only values the culinary skills of its team but also their personal growth and well-being, offering extensive benefits including medical, dental, vision insurance, 401K with matching contributions, paid time off, associate discounts, and referral bonuses. The company's commitment to equal opportunity employment ensures a supportive and diverse workplace that respects all individuals regardless of gender, race, orientation, disability, or veteran status. If you're passionate about food, dedicated to exceptional service, and ready to grow within a nationally recognized restaurant group, the Cook position at Panda is an excellent opportunity to build your career in the hospitality industry.