Kitchen Team

Panda Restaurant Group, Inc. is a renowned family-owned American Chinese restaurant concept founded in 1983 in Glendale, California. It has grown to become the largest of its kind in America, operating close to 2,300 locations globally. With a deep commitment to delivering exceptional Asian dining experiences, Panda focuses on building an organization where individuals are inspired to improve their lives through meaningful work and community impact. The company prides itself on embracing strong family values, fostering a safe and supportive work environment where employees are not just team members but become friends. Panda Restaurant Group is dedicated to giving back to the community through its Panda Cares initiative, encouraging employees to participate in impactful activities that extend beyond the restaurant walls.

The role of Kitchen Team Associate at Panda is a dynamic position ideal for friendly team players who enjoy cooking delicious food while maintaining the highest standards of cleanliness. This position offers a fantastic opportunity for individuals to thrive in a fast-paced kitchen environment that values safety, quality, and teamwork. Associates in this role get hands-on training and can develop valuable skills that open doors for career advancement within the company or the food service industry at large. Even candidates without prior experience are welcomed and supported through comprehensive training programs. The work environment is engaging and positive, emphasizing fun while meeting daily goals collaboratively.

As a Kitchen Team Associate, you will provide exceptional dining experiences to guests by greeting them warmly, serving food efficiently, and handling payments at the cash register. You will be responsible for maintaining the cleanliness and appearance of the store and strictly following operational standards and safety procedures to ensure the food served is fresh and of the highest quality. The role may involve working across different positions such as the front counter, drive-through, or kitchen, requiring flexibility and adaptability. This position demands the ability to work quickly and accurately in a high-energy environment and involves standing for long periods and handling various kitchen equipment, including Chinese cook knives. Physical capabilities such as lifting up to 50 pounds and working in hot, noisy conditions are part of the job requirements. Strong verbal communication skills and the ability to manage difficult situations with professionalism and adaptability are essential qualities for success.

Panda Restaurant Group takes pride in being an equal opportunity employer that values diversity and inclusivity. The company is committed to complying with all federal, state, and local laws regarding workplace accommodations and non-discrimination. All candidates and associates can expect fair treatment without regard to sex, gender, race, color, religion, nationality, sexual orientation, disability, age, or veteran status. The organization provides reasonable accommodations during the application and hiring processes to ensure all qualified individuals can participate fully.

Compensation for this role ranges from $23 to $26 per hour, with exact pay determined by factors including work location and experience. The company offers flexible schedules, making it easier for employees to balance their work and personal lives. Panda is focused on not only providing a job but creating a pathway for ongoing career and leadership development with growth opportunities into management roles. Associates benefit from competitive pay, comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, paid time off, retirement benefits such as 401K with company match, and other perks including free meals during shifts, employee discounts, referral bonuses, and paid training. These incentives reflect Panda's dedication to supporting its workforce holistically and encouraging long-term career success and satisfaction.