Cook

Panda Restaurant Group, Inc. is a highly respected American Chinese restaurant company founded in 1983 in Glendale, California. Over the years, it has grown to become the largest family-owned Asian dining concept in the United States, boasting close to 2,800 locations globally. The company remains dedicated to delivering exceptional Asian dining experiences while cultivating a work environment grounded in family values and community impact. As a growth-oriented organization, Panda Restaurant Group continuously invests in its most valuable asset – its people. This commitment to fostering a supportive, inclusive, and dynamic workplace culture has made it a sought-after employer in the foodservice industry.

The Panda Cook position offers a pivotal role within this fast-paced and expanding organization. Working as a cook in Panda's kitchens means more than just food preparation; it requires passion, dedication, and a genuine commitment to creating quality dishes while contributing to an inviting and vibrant restaurant atmosphere. As a member of the heart of the kitchen team, the Panda Cook leads by example, ensuring that every meal meets the company's high standards for taste, presentation, and food safety.

This role is integral to supporting the restaurant's dynamic environment by preparing food according to established recipes and company standards. Beyond cooking, the Panda Cook takes on leadership and training responsibilities by guiding the kitchen team and helping onboard new staff members. The role requires a strong work ethic, the ability to work efficiently under pressure, and flexibility to adapt to changing priorities in a fast-moving setting.

The physical demands of the job include standing for extended periods, handling kitchen equipment such as Chinese cook knives, and lifting up to 50 pounds. The work environment itself can be challenging due to high temperatures from steam tables and food vapors, limited and high shelving storage, and generally high noise levels. However, Panda provides extensive support through hands-on training and career development programs aimed at preparing associates for success and growth within the company, including opportunities to advance to management roles.

Panda Restaurant Group offers a comprehensive benefits package, especially for full-time associates, including medical, dental, and vision insurance, voluntary short-term disability, cancer income protection insurance, flexible spending accounts for healthcare and dependent care, a 401K plan with company match, paid time off including vacation and sick leave, and associate discounts. The company promotes flexible scheduling and offers an inclusive and supportive workplace culture that encourages community involvement and ongoing leadership development.

Joining Panda Restaurant Group as a Cook allows you to be part of a historic and expanding brand that values teamwork, family, and community impact. It is an excellent opportunity to develop your culinary skills in a vibrant and rewarding environment while enjoying strong benefits and a pathway for career growth. This role is suited for motivated individuals passionate about food preparation and hospitality who thrive in a fast-paced kitchen setting and wish to contribute meaningfully to a growing restaurant group.