Cook

Panda Restaurant Group, Inc. is a renowned leader in the American Chinese dining experience, proudly holding the title of the largest family-owned American Chinese Restaurant concept in the United States. Founded in 1983 in Glendale, California, Panda has grown substantially and now operates close to 2,800 locations globally. The company is dedicated to delivering exceptional Asian dining experiences through a strong organizational culture built on family values and a genuine commitment to inspiring and improving the lives of its team members. Known for its vibrant restaurants that serve as the heart and soul of the brand, Panda Restaurant Group fosters an environment where people can grow personally and professionally while contributing positively to the communities they serve.

The role of a Panda Cook is central to the daily operations and overall success of each restaurant. As a Cook, you will be a vital leader and an integral part of the kitchen team, making sure every dish is prepared with passion, precision, and adherence to company standards. This position offers a unique opportunity to engage in a fast-paced, growth-oriented environment that values service with heart and the creation of a welcoming ambiance for guests. You will work closely with other kitchen staff, guiding and assisting with training, while performing all necessary back-of-house duties. The role demands a focus on quality, efficiency, and teamwork to ensure that the Panda dining experience remains outstanding for every customer.

In this position, you will have the chance to develop your culinary skills while receiving hands-on paid training designed to prepare you for success. There is a strong emphasis on creating vibrant, approachable environments where guests feel welcomed and valued. As a Cook, you will also contribute to maintaining the high standards of food safety and preparation required by local and municipal regulations, including obtaining necessary certifications such as the Food Handler certification.

Panda Restaurant Group values its associates by offering flexible schedules, competitive pay, and a comprehensive benefits package for full-time associates, including medical, vision, dental, and voluntary insurance options. You will also enjoy perks such as free meals while working, 401K plans with company match, vacation and sick leave, and opportunities for career advancement into management positions. The company commits to providing ongoing career and leadership development to help you grow within the organization.

Working as a Panda Cook means being part of a dedicated team where your contributions directly affect the satisfaction of guests and the success of the restaurant. You will be expected to work efficiently in a busy kitchen environment, use kitchen equipment skillfully, and maintain high standards for quality and safety. The job can be physically demanding, requiring the ability to lift up to 50 lbs, stand for extended periods, and adapt to a dynamic workspace. Effective communication and conflict management skills are also essential for navigating the fast-paced setting and ensuring a collaborative work atmosphere.

If you have some high school education, prefer some operations experience, and are willing to obtain local food safety certifications at your expense, you could be a great fit for this role. Panda Restaurant Group is committed to equal opportunity employment and provides reasonable accommodations to support all candidates throughout the hiring process. Join Panda Restaurant Group as a Cook and become part of a family-focused company that proudly serves authentic Asian cuisine while supporting the personal and professional growth of its employees.