Kitchen Team

Panda Restaurant Group, Inc. is a renowned and family-owned American Chinese restaurant company founded in 1983 in Glendale, California. Today, it operates approximately 2,800 locations globally, making it the largest family-owned restaurant concept of its kind in the United States. Panda Restaurant Group is committed to delivering exceptional Asian dining experiences through quality food, excellent customer service, and a strong emphasis on family values and community impact. As a company, Panda Restaurant Group places great importance on creating an inclusive, positive, and safe work environment where team members are encouraged to grow both personally and professionally. The company prides itself on fostering a culture of respect, teamwork, and community involvement, exemplified through initiatives such as Panda Cares, which allows employees to contribute positively to their communities.

The role of Kitchen Team Associate is integral to delivering the high standards of food quality and customer satisfaction that Panda Restaurant Group is known for. This position focuses on preparing delicious food while maintaining the utmost cleanliness and safety within the kitchen and dining areas. The role demands efficient performance in a fast-paced environment, where associates may be rotated through various positions such as front counter, drive-through, or kitchen tasks based on daily operational needs. As a Kitchen Team Associate, individuals will be part of a friendly, supportive team that values collaboration, positivity, and continuous learning. New hires do not need prior experience since comprehensive hands-on training is provided to prepare them for success in this role.

This position is ideal for friendly and motivated team players who are eager to provide exceptional customer service and contribute to a clean and welcoming atmosphere for guests. In return, Panda offers flexible scheduling options, competitive pay ranging from $22 to $25 per hour depending on location and experience, and numerous benefits including medical, dental, and vision insurance for full-time associates. Additional perks include free meals during shifts, 401K with company match, vacation and sick leave, associate discounts, referral bonuses, and ongoing career and leadership development opportunities. Unlike many fast-food roles, Panda emphasizes career advancement with paths to management for those who demonstrate capability and dedication. Moreover, associates are encouraged to engage with community service initiatives, further enhancing the meaningfulness of their work.

Working at Panda requires physical stamina, the ability to work in a fast-paced and sometimes noisy kitchen environment, and excellent communication skills. Associates must be able to stand for extended periods, prepare hot and cold foods quickly and accurately, and handle kitchen tools safely and effectively. Flexibility and adaptability are essential as priorities may change throughout the day. The company is committed to providing reasonable accommodations in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act to ensure that every employee can participate fully in their role.

Overall, joining Panda Restaurant Group as a Kitchen Team Associate offers a rewarding opportunity to develop culinary and customer service skills while working with a supportive team. It is a career starting point for many and offers potential for significant professional growth within a respected and expanding organization. Candidates who are eager to learn, enjoy working in dynamic team-driven environments, and want to contribute to a successful and socially responsible company will find this role a perfect fit.