Kitchen Team

Panda Restaurant Group, Inc. is a premier family-owned American Chinese restaurant company founded in Glendale, California in 1983. Since its inception, Panda has grown to become the largest family-owned American Chinese Restaurant concept in the United States with nearly 2,300 locations worldwide. The company is proud of its legacy of providing exceptional Asian dining experiences to its guests and is dedicated to fostering an organizational culture that inspires its team members to improve their lives both personally and professionally. Panda Restaurant Group embraces family values, promotes community engagement, and actively participates in giving back to the communities through initiatives like Panda Cares. Its commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion makes it an equal opportunity employer that does not discriminate on any legally protected characteristics. The company complies with all federal, state, and local laws related to workplace accommodations, including the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This ensures that every individual has the opportunity to participate effectively in the application, hiring, and employment process.

The role of the Kitchen Team Associate at Panda Restaurant Group offers a fantastic opportunity for individuals who enjoy working in a fast-paced, team-oriented kitchen environment. Kitchen Team Associates play a vital role in delivering an exceptional dining experience for guests by preparing delicious food while maintaining high standards of safety and cleanliness. This position is especially suitable for those who are friendly, motivated, and eager to learn new skills—no prior experience is required as training is provided. The work environment at Panda is safe, supportive, and fun, enabling employees to thrive as they collaborate with team members who often become friends. The Kitchen Team Associate role demands efficiency and flexibility, as employees may work at various positions such as the front counter, drive-through, or kitchen. Associates are expected to deliver fresh, high-quality food while adhering strictly to operational standards and safety procedures.

Associates benefit from hands-on paid training and receive ongoing career and leadership development, empowering them to enhance their skill sets and progress their careers within the company. Panda values career advancement and offers opportunities for growth into management positions. Alongside competitive pay and flexible scheduling, full-time associates have access to comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision, voluntary short-term disability, cancer income protection insurance, 401K with company match, flexible spending accounts for health care and dependent care, and generous paid time off policies. Team members also enjoy freebies such as meals during shifts, associate discounts for various brands, and referral bonuses. Working at Panda also provides a sense of purpose, as employees can contribute positively to their communities through company-sponsored programs.

This role demands a physical stamina to handle the rigors of a fast-paced kitchen that may involve standing for extended periods, lifting up to 50 pounds, and working in hot, noisy environments. Associates must have strong verbal communication skills and the ability to adapt to dynamic situations while managing potential conflicts calmly and professionally. Panda Restaurant Group is committed to creating an inclusive and accessible workplace where individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodations to perform effectively.