Kitchen Team

Panda Restaurant Group, Inc. is a prominent name in the American Chinese restaurant industry, founded in Glendale, California in 1983. As the largest family-owned American Chinese restaurant concept in the United States, Panda has grown to encompass nearly 2,800 locations worldwide. The company is committed to delivering exceptional Asian dining experiences through a culture that inspires its employees to improve their lives and positively impact the communities where they operate. At the heart of Panda Restaurant Group’s mission is a dedication to family values, teamwork, and community involvement, which are evident in initiatives such as Panda Cares, a program that allows employees to give back to their communities. This commitment not only strengthens the company internally but also fortifies its reputation as a supportive and responsible employer.

Working as a Kitchen Team Associate at Panda means joining a friendly, dynamic team that values each member's contribution while maintaining a fun, positive work environment. Team associates receive hands-on paid training and have the opportunity to develop valuable skills that can open doors to career advancement within the company. No prior experience is necessary, as comprehensive training programs are designed to prepare employees for success in the fast-paced kitchen and customer service areas. The role also provides a safe and supportive environment where team members develop meaningful relationships with coworkers and benefit from regular opportunities to learn and grow. Kitchen Team Associates are essential in upholding the high standards of food safety, quality, and cleanliness that guests have come to expect from Panda.

In this role, Associates thrive in a fast-paced setting, often rotating between positions, including front counter service, drive-thru, and kitchen duties. They are responsible for providing an exceptional dining experience by greeting guests warmly, serving food efficiently, and maintaining the store's immaculate appearance. Associates work as a team to meet daily operational goals while ensuring compliance with safety procedures and operational standards. Physical demands include standing for extended periods, lifting up to 50 pounds, and using kitchen tools like Chinese cook knives with precision. The environment can be hot and noisy, requiring adaptability, effective communication skills, and the ability to remain focused and accurate under pressure.

As part of the compensation and support package, Panda offers flexible scheduling, competitive pay, and free meals during shifts. Full-time associates are eligible for a comprehensive benefits package including medical, vision, dental, short-term disability, and cancer income protection insurance, along with Health Care and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts, a 401K plan with company match, and paid leave options such as vacation, sick leave, bereavement/funeral leave, and a Leave Share Program. Employees also enjoy associate discounts and referral bonuses. Panda emphasizes career development with ongoing leadership training and opportunities to advance into management roles. The company's inclusion policies ensure that every employee is treated with dignity and respect, fostering a workplace culture that values diversity and equal opportunity.