Cook

Panda Restaurant Group, Inc. is a well-established and family-owned American Chinese restaurant company headquartered in Glendale, California. Founded in 1983, Panda has grown to become the largest family-owned restaurant concept of its kind in America, with nearly 2,800 locations worldwide. The company is dedicated to delivering exceptional Asian dining experiences and is proud to uphold family values that are embedded in its culture. Panda Restaurant Group emphasizes creating an inspired and supportive work environment for its employees, fostering opportunities for growth, development, and community engagement. The organization is strongly committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, operating as an Equal Opportunity Employer and complying fully with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and all other relevant laws. Panda believes its people are the key to its continued success and focuses on leadership development and career advancement internally.

The role of a Panda Cook is integral to the company’s mission and core operations. Working as a Cook at Panda means embracing a vibrant and fast-paced environment where passion for food, service, and hospitality is paramount. The Cook position is responsible for preparing dishes that meet the company’s high standards and recipes while supporting and guiding the kitchen team. This role requires a keen attention to detail, excellent time management, and the ability to maintain quality under pressure. As a vital member of the Back of House, the Panda Cook plays a key role in creating a welcoming atmosphere for guests and ensuring the consistency and excellence of all food items produced.

This is a hands-on position that involves working with specialized kitchen equipment, including Chinese cook knives, and performing physically demanding tasks such as lifting up to 50 pounds and standing for extended periods. Panda Cooks also assist in training new team members, which is an opportunity to develop leadership skills within the kitchen environment. The role offers a competitive hourly pay rate ranging from $24 to $27, based on location, experience, and other factors. In addition to the wage, Panda offers an extensive benefits package that includes flexible schedules, free meals during shifts, comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage for full-time associates, and multiple insurance options, such as voluntary short-term disability and cancer income protection.

Panda's commitment to its team extends beyond just compensation. Employees have access to a 401K plan with company match, paid vacation, sick leave, bereavement leave, and a leave share program for eligible associates. The company also offers associate discounts, referral bonuses, and opportunities to engage in community service. Continuous career and leadership development programs help associates grow professionally and potentially advance into management positions. Overall, becoming a Cook at Panda means joining a company that values teamwork, safety, quality, and the wellbeing of its associates, fostering an inclusive and supportive workplace where employees are encouraged to excel and develop their culinary careers.