Kitchen Team

Panda Restaurant Group, Inc. is the largest family-owned American Chinese restaurant concept in the United States, founded in 1983 in Glendale, California. With nearly 2,800 locations worldwide, Panda Restaurant Group has built a strong reputation for delivering exceptional Asian dining experiences. The company is deeply rooted in family values and inspired by a mission to better the lives of its employees and the communities where it operates. Panda is known not only for its delicious food but also for its commitment to providing a supportive and inclusive workplace where all team members feel valued and empowered to grow.

As a Kitchen Team Associate at Panda Restaurant Group, you join a vibrant team of friendly, hardworking individuals dedicated to preparing high-quality food while maintaining the highest standards of cleanliness and guest service. This role is ideal for those who thrive in a fast-paced kitchen environment and enjoy working collaboratively with others to achieve daily goals. Whether you have prior experience or are new to the food service industry, Panda provides comprehensive training and hands-on learning opportunities to help you develop valuable skills. The position offers flexible schedules, competitive pay, free meals during shifts, and a chance to contribute positively to your local community through Panda Cares initiatives.

As a Kitchen Team Associate, your duties will include greeting and serving guests with a smile, handling payments at the cash register, and ensuring that the food served meets Panda's high-quality standards. You will work across different stations including the front counter, drive-thru, and kitchen, adapting to the fast rhythm of the restaurant while keeping safety and cleanliness a top priority. Panda fosters a fun and positive work environment where teamwork and mutual support are emphasized, helping you build meaningful relationships with colleagues that often turn into lasting friendships.

This role also comes with many benefits for full-time associates such as medical, vision, dental insurance, optional short-term disability and cancer income protections, flexible spending accounts, and a 401K plan with company match. Paid time off benefits include vacation, sick leave, bereavement, funeral leave, and the unique Leave Share Program. Associates also enjoy discounts on numerous brands, referral bonuses for eligible candidates, and ongoing career and leadership development opportunities. Panda is committed to helping employees grow into management positions as they advance their careers.

The physical demands of the job are clearly outlined, with the expectation that employees can stand for extended periods, lift up to 50 pounds, and work effectively in a hot, noisy, and dynamic environment. The company ensures compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) by providing reasonable accommodations in the application and hiring process where necessary. Panda Restaurant Group values diversity and inclusion, guaranteeing equal opportunity employment regardless of gender, race, religion, disability, or other protected characteristics.

Joining Panda means becoming part of a company with a rich history and a forward-looking approach that offers not just a job but a career pathway in the culinary and hospitality industry. Whether you aspire to gain new skills, contribute to a positive workplace culture, or support community efforts, Panda Restaurant Group provides the platform for you to succeed and thrive.