$100K Potential Annual Earning - Restaurant Manager

Panda Express is a renowned leader in the Asian dining industry, recognized as the largest family-owned American Chinese Restaurant concept in the United States. Founded in 1983 in Glendale, California, Panda Express has grown to nearly 2,400 locations worldwide and continues its rapid expansion by opening more than 100 new restaurants annually. As part of the larger Panda Restaurant Group which also includes Panda Inn and Hibachi-San, the company is guided by its mission to deliver exceptional Asian dining experiences while fostering an organizational culture that inspires people to improve their lives. Known for its genuine family environment and commitment to the communities it serves, Panda Express prides itself on creating opportunities for both professional and personal growth. Its reputation is further solidified by prestigious recognitions such as being named one of "America's Best Employers," being Great Place to Work certified, and recognized as the safest restaurant chain in the United States during the pandemic.

The role of a General Manager (GM) at Panda Express offers an entrepreneurial platform within a dynamic, fast-paced setting where managers steer a $1-2 million business operation. This leadership position encompasses full accountability for a restaurant’s success, including overseeing staff development, ensuring guest satisfaction, and maintaining profitability. GMs are responsible for hiring, managing, and directing associates while meeting business financial goals and delivering an outstanding guest experience that aligns with Panda’s high-quality standards. A key feature of this role is the comprehensive, six-plus-week Store Leadership Training Program designed to equip new leaders with the skills essential for outstanding performance. The program covers vital areas such as people development—teaching the ability to recruit, train, coach, and nurture the right talent; guest experience—upholding superior food quality and service standards while sharpening marketing skills; financial management—understanding sales growth, cost control and profit generation; kitchen management—ensuring food safety, inventory control, and culinary proficiency; and operations—maintaining cleanliness, safety, and adherence to company policies.

Panda Express positions provide competitive and rewarding career opportunities for their full-time management team, including a progressive compensation package and attractive bonus potentials tied to performance metrics and business growth. Benefits include medical, dental, and vision insurance, a 401(k) retirement savings plan with company match, paid time off and holidays, associate discounts across Panda Express, Hibachi San, Panda Inn, and affiliated theme parks, and free meals during working hours. The management team also enjoys lucrative referral bonuses and access to a pre-tax dependent care flexible spending account. Starting salaries for General Managers begin at $75,000 annually plus bonuses, with earning potential exceeding $100,000 per year, while Assistant Managers start at $58,000 plus bonuses, with potential earnings over $75,000. Panda Express invites individuals eager to grow professionally in a supportive and innovative environment to join their management team and craft a unique success story of their own.