Kitchen Team

Panda Restaurant Group, Inc. is a renowned American family-owned Asian dining establishment founded in 1983 in Glendale, California. Over the decades, it has grown to become the largest family-owned American Chinese restaurant concept in the United States, operating nearly 2,300 locations globally. Panda Restaurant Group combines rich culinary traditions with a commitment to delivering exceptional dining experiences that marry quality food with outstanding customer service. The organization prides itself on fostering an inspiring and inclusive work environment grounded in family values and community engagement. The company also places a strong emphasis on giving back to the communities it serves through initiatives like Panda Cares.

The role of Kitchen Team Associate at Panda Restaurant Group is ideal for those interested in joining a vibrant, fast-paced kitchen environment where teamwork, cleanliness, and guest satisfaction are paramount. This position involves hands-on food preparation and operating in various stations including the front counter, drive-thru, and kitchen to provide guests with delicious meals served under high standards of food safety and operational excellence. Experience is not mandatory as comprehensive training is offered, making it an excellent opportunity for individuals eager to learn new skills and develop a career in the hospitality industry.

As a Kitchen Team Associate, you will contribute to creating an exceptional dining experience by greeting guests, serving food, handling payments, and ensuring the cleanliness and orderliness of the store. The role also requires adaptability to shift between different positions and work efficiently alongside team members to meet daily goals in a supportive and enjoyable workplace culture. Associate opportunities include gaining career advancement through leadership development programs and the possibility to grow into management roles. Compensation ranges from $23 to $26 per hour, with actual pay depending on location and prior experience.

Working at Panda also comes with a variety of benefits including flexible schedules, competitive pay, free meals while on shift, and an assortment of insurance options — medical, vision, dental, and voluntary short-term disability among others — for full-time associates. Other perks include 401K plans with company matches, paid vacation and sick leave, associate discounts on many brands, referral bonuses, and ongoing career development opportunities.

In addition to the physical demands of the kitchen environment — such as standing for extended periods, lifting up to 50 pounds, and working amidst heat and noise — Panda Restaurant Group emphasizes inclusivity and equal opportunity. The company is committed to ADA compliance and offers reasonable accommodations during the hiring process and employment to qualified individuals with disabilities. The role calls for effective communication skills, the ability to adapt to a dynamic workplace, and the capacity to handle challenging situations professionally. This inclusive and community-focused culture makes Panda an inviting place for those seeking meaningful work within a supportive team environment.