Kitchen Team

Panda Restaurant Group, Inc., founded in 1983 in Glendale, California, stands as the largest family-owned American Chinese Restaurant concept in the United States. With nearly 2,800 locations worldwide, Panda Restaurant Group has established itself as a leader in delivering exceptional Asian dining experiences. The company takes pride in fostering a work environment grounded in family values and community engagement. Their mission stretches beyond just food service; it seeks to inspire and improve the lives of team members, encouraging growth, learning, and impact within the communities they serve.

This particular role is for a Kitchen Team Associate, an entry-level position designed for friendly, energetic individuals who enjoy working as part of a team and providing excellent service. The role is perfect for those who may be starting their careers or looking to develop new skills in a dynamic, supportive kitchen environment. No previous experience is necessary, as comprehensive training is provided. The Kitchen Team Associate will learn to prepare delicious food while upholding the highest standards of cleanliness and safety. Working at Panda is not just about the work; it is about becoming part of a team that fosters friendships, supports career advancement, and values individual contributions.

In this position, the employee is expected to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment, handling various tasks that may range from front counter service, drive-through operations, to kitchen work. This variety ensures that each day brings new challenges and learning opportunities. Responsibilities include greeting guests, serving food, maintaining store cleanliness, and complying with all safety and operational procedures to ensure the delivery of fresh, high-quality food to customers. The role requires adaptability, effective verbal communication skills, and the ability to manage conflicts or difficult situations professionally and gracefully.

Panda Restaurant Group emphasizes inclusivity and equal opportunity, providing reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities, as per the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The workplace environment often involves physical demands such as standing for extended periods, lifting up to 50 pounds, and working in hot, noisy kitchens with restricted spaces. Employees must be prepared to work under these conditions while maintaining high performance standards.

The pay range for this position is $23 to $26 per hour, with individual pay determined by work location and experience. Panda offers flexible schedules and a comprehensive benefits package, especially for full-time associates. These benefits include medical, vision, dental insurance, voluntary short-term disability, cancer income protection insurance, and 401K retirement plans with company match. Additionally, employees enjoy perks like free meals during shifts, associate discounts, referral bonuses, paid vacation, sick leave, bereavement leave, and participation in community-focused initiatives like Panda Cares.

Overall, the Kitchen Team Associate role at Panda Restaurant Group is an excellent opportunity for individuals seeking a rewarding, growth-oriented position that values teamwork, community involvement, and career development within a well-established and respected company.