Cook

Panda Restaurant Group, Inc., founded in 1983 in Glendale, California, has grown to become the largest family-owned American Chinese restaurant concept in the United States. With nearly 2,800 locations worldwide, the company is dedicated to delivering exceptional Asian dining experiences with a strong emphasis on family values and community engagement. Panda Restaurant Group prides itself on building an organization where people are inspired to better their lives, fostering a vibrant and supportive workplace culture that emphasizes equality, diversity, and inclusion.

Panda Cook associates are vital leaders within the team, representing the heart of the kitchen and the soul of the restaurant. This role requires creating food with passion, providing service with heart, and maintaining an ambiance filled with pride. The Cook position is crucial to the overall guest experience, as it involves preparing dishes that adhere closely to company recipes and standards in a fast-paced, growth-oriented environment. Cooks support a welcoming and vibrant atmosphere for guests and contribute actively to guiding and training kitchen team members. The job demands a dynamic individual who can manage multiple responsibilities while maintaining high-quality standards and ensuring that every guest has a memorable dining experience.

The role involves performing all back-of-house responsibilities efficiently and effectively, including food preparation, kitchen organization, and maintaining sanitary standards in compliance with local and municipal regulations. Candidates must be prepared to work in typically hot kitchen environments, stand for extended periods, and handle various kitchen equipment such as Chinese cook knives. This position also requires the physical ability to lift up to 50 pounds and reach across counters. Strong verbal communication skills and the ability to adapt quickly to changing priorities and challenging situations are essential traits for success in this role.

Panda Restaurant Group offers competitive pay ranging from $25 to $28 per hour, with individual compensation determined by factors such as location and experience. The company also commits to providing flexible schedules and comprehensive benefits to support the well-being and professional growth of its associates. Full-time employees have access to medical, vision, and dental insurance, along with additional voluntary protections like short-term disability and cancer income insurance. The company also provides health care and dependent care flexible spending accounts, a 401K plan with company matching, and various paid leave options including vacation, sick leave, bereavement, and a leave share program for eligible associates. Employee discounts, referral bonuses, hands-on paid training, and ongoing career and leadership development opportunities further contribute to an enriching work experience with Panda Restaurant Group.

Panda Restaurant Group is committed to equal opportunity employment and complies fully with federal, state, and local laws. The company ensures reasonable accommodations are available throughout the application and employment process to support individuals with disabilities. This inclusive workplace culture reaffirms Panda’s dedication to diversity and equity, making it a welcoming employer for all qualified applicants. The Cook role offers a valuable opportunity to join a respected company where your work genuinely impacts the guest experience and the community. It’s an ideal position for those passionate about food, eager to grow professionally, and excited to contribute positively to one of America’s most beloved restaurant brands.