Kitchen Team

Panda Restaurant Group, Inc., founded in 1983 in Glendale, California, has blossomed into the largest family-owned American Chinese restaurant concept in the United States. With nearly 2,800 locations globally, Panda is dedicated to delivering exceptional Asian dining experiences. The company takes pride in cultivating a work environment that embraces family values and encourages team members to improve their lives both professionally and personally. Panda's commitment extends beyond its restaurants to making a positive impact in local communities through its Panda Cares initiative. This initiative demonstrates Panda's dedication to social responsibility and community engagement, highlighting the company's belief in giving back as a cornerstone of its culture.

As a Kitchen Team Associate at Panda Restaurant Group, you will join a friendly, supportive team focused on preparing delicious meals and maintaining the highest standards of cleanliness. This role is perfect for individuals who thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment and enjoy working collaboratively with colleagues who quickly become friends. Whether you have previous experience or are just starting your career, Panda provides comprehensive training to equip you with the skills needed for success. Working at Panda offers continuous opportunities for learning, growth, and career advancement. The company emphasizes hands-on paid training, ongoing leadership development, and potential career growth into management positions, making it an excellent place for those seeking long-term career paths in the restaurant and hospitality industry.

The Kitchen Team Associate is essential in providing an exceptional dining experience to guests, from food preparation to handling guest interactions at the front counter or drive-through. Associates are expected to uphold operational standards, food safety procedures, and cleanliness, ensuring all food served is fresh and of high quality. Team members must be adaptable, able to work efficiently in different positions, and maintain a positive attitude to meet daily goals in a fun and supportive environment. Flexibility, teamwork, and effective communication are highly valued, as is the ability to adapt to changing priorities and manage challenging situations effectively.

This role also requires physical stamina, as associates will often work in hot, noisy kitchen environments, stand for extended periods, and handle equipment like Chinese cook knives. The job involves lifting up to 50 pounds and reaching across counters. Despite these demands, Panda Restaurant Group is committed to providing a safe workplace that supports its employees’ well-being. Panda is an Equal Opportunity Employer, ensuring a diverse and inclusive workplace free from discrimination based on legally protected characteristics, making it a welcoming employer for all qualified individuals.

The company offers a comprehensive benefits package for eligible associates including flexible schedules, competitive pay, free meals while working, medical, vision, and dental insurance, voluntary short-term disability and cancer income protection insurance, health care and dependent care flexible spending accounts, 401(k) with company match, paid vacation, sick leave, bereavement leave, associate discounts, referral bonuses, and ongoing career development opportunities. This robust benefits program reflects Panda's investment in its team members and their future. Joining Panda means becoming part of a well-established, family-oriented organization where your contribution is valued and your growth supported.