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 globally. The company is renowned for delivering exceptional Asian dining experiences by fostering an organization where employees are inspired to improve their lives and contribute to their communities. Panda Restaurant Group embraces strong family values and is committed to equal employment opportunities, supporting a diverse workforce free from discrimination based on any protected characteristic under the law. The group also complies fully with federal, state, and local laws concerning workplace accommodations, ensuring a supportive and inclusive work environment for all its associates.

The role of Kitchen Team Associate at Panda is designed for friendly team players passionate about cooking delicious food while maintaining the highest standards of cleanliness and operation safety. This position thrives in a supportive and safe work environment where coworkers become friends and where there is always an opportunity to learn new skills, take on fresh challenges, and accomplish meaningful goals. Even candidates without prior experience are welcome, as Panda provides comprehensive training to help associates succeed.

Kitchen Team Associates are responsible for providing an exceptional dining experience by greeting guests, serving food, handling cash register payments, maintaining store cleanliness, and following operational and safety procedures to ensure the quality and freshness of the food served. The role requires working efficiently in a fast-paced kitchen environment and rotating through different positions such as front counter, drive-through, or kitchen, ensuring versatility and teamwork. Collaboration and positive interaction with team members are essential to meet daily operational goals.

In addition to on-the-job experience, Panda supports growth opportunities that prepare employees for career advancement within the company, including paths leading to management positions. Associates also gain valuable leadership development through hands-on training and ongoing educational resources that promote professional growth.

The company offers numerous benefits for its team members, including flexible work schedules, competitive pay, free meals during shifts, and comprehensive insurance packages covering medical, vision, dental, and voluntary short-term disability, available for full-time associates. Panda also provides health care and dependent care flexible spending accounts, a 401K plan with company matching, various paid leave options including vacation, sick leave, bereavement, funeral leave, and a leave sharing program. Employees enjoy opportunities to participate in community giving initiatives through Panda Cares, earn referral bonuses, and receive associate discounts on many brands. This richly supportive compensation package and its commitment to associate well-being underscore Panda Restaurant Group’s dedication to its workforce.

The physical demands and work environment require associates to withstand fast-paced conditions, often standing for extensive periods, handling hot and cold foods, and using kitchen equipment safely and efficiently. The role also involves lifting up to 50 pounds and working comfortably amidst kitchen heat and noise. Effective communication skills, adaptability, and conflict resolution abilities are essential to thriving in this dynamic setting. By joining Panda Restaurant Group, associates become part of a respected, family-oriented company that values their contributions and encourages both personal and professional development.