Kitchen Team

Panda Restaurant Group, Inc., founded in 1983 in Glendale, California, is the largest family-owned American Chinese restaurant concept in the United States. With nearly 2,800 locations worldwide, Panda Restaurant Group has built a reputation for delivering exceptional Asian dining experiences to millions of guests. Known for its commitment to quality, community involvement through its Panda Cares initiative, and family values, the company fosters a work environment where team members are inspired to better their lives and grow within the organization. Panda is dedicated to creating an inclusive workplace, adhering strictly to equal opportunity employment standards, and providing accommodations as required by law, ensuring that every employee has the support they need to succeed.

The Kitchen Team Associate role at Panda Restaurant Group is an excellent opportunity for individuals who enjoy a fast-paced, team-oriented work environment and want to develop skills in the culinary and hospitality industry. This position is focused on cooking delicious food while maintaining the highest standards of cleanliness to ensure an exceptional dining experience for guests. Kitchen Team Associates may be assigned to a variety of positions including the front counter, drive-through, or kitchen areas, working efficiently and effectively to meet daily operational goals.

This role is designed to be both welcoming to those new to the food service industry—with training provided—and rewarding for those seeking long-term career advancement. Employees in this position contribute to the company's mission by handling food preparation in a safe, hygienic manner, greeting and serving guests, and maintaining cleanliness and order throughout their shift. The company emphasizes teamwork and a positive workplace, encouraging collaboration among team members to create a friendly and supportive atmosphere.

The Kitchen Team Associate position is classified as an hourly role with a pay range of $22 to $25 per hour, depending on location and experience. Panda offers flexible schedules to accommodate employees’ needs, making it a suitable job for students, part-time workers, or anyone seeking a balance between work and life commitments. This role also offers opportunities for hands-on paid training, leadership development, and career growth into management roles, making it a strong foundation for anyone interested in pursuing a career in the hospitality or culinary fields.

In addition to the operational experience gained, associates have access to a variety of benefits, including medical, dental, and vision insurance for full-time employees, health care and dependent care flexible spending accounts, 401(k) plans with company matches, paid vacation, sick leave, bereavement leave, and associate discounts for numerous brands. Panda also provides a referral bonus for eligible associates and encourages community engagement through volunteer activities.

Working as a Kitchen Team Associate at Panda requires physical stamina and the ability to work in a dynamic, sometimes high-pressure environment where employees stand for extended periods, handle hot and cold foods, operate various kitchen equipment including Chinese cooking knives, and maintain accuracy and speed. The company values strong communication skills, adaptability, and the ability to manage conflicts or difficult situations professionally.

Joining Panda Restaurant Group means becoming part of a family-oriented organization with a proud legacy of delivering memorable dining experiences and supporting personal and professional growth. If you are enthusiastic about food, enjoy working in a team, and are ready to contribute to a vibrant and inclusive workplace, this role offers a pathway to learn, earn, and advance in one of the fastest-growing restaurant groups in the country.