Kitchen Team

Panda Restaurant Group, Inc., founded in Glendale, California, is the largest family-owned American Chinese restaurant concept in the United States with close to 2,800 locations worldwide. Over the years, Panda has grown into a beloved brand known for its commitment to delivering exceptional Asian dining experiences by blending quality food with friendly, welcoming service. The company prides itself on family values and community involvement, continually seeking to create work environments where employees feel inspired, supported, and valued. Panda Restaurant Group is an equal opportunity employer, committed to fostering diversity and inclusion, and provides reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities throughout the hiring process.

The position of Kitchen Team Associate at Panda offers a dynamic, fast-paced work environment perfect for individuals who enjoy working as part of a team and have a passion for delivering great food and service. This role is essential in ensuring guests receive an exceptional dining experience from the moment they enter the restaurant. Kitchen Team Associates are responsible for cooking delicious meals while maintaining impeccable cleanliness standards to ensure food safety and quality. Working at Panda means being part of a team that supports each other and encourages learning and growth. The company offers paid hands-on training for those new to the industry, making it an excellent opportunity for those without prior experience who wish to develop their culinary and customer service skills.

Associates at Panda have the chance to work in various positions within the restaurant, including front counter, drive-through, and kitchen roles, fostering versatility and comprehensive operational knowledge. Working efficiently and effectively in this fast-paced environment demands teamwork, adaptability, and a positive attitude, all of which are highly valued. Employees will experience a culture that actively promotes personal and professional development, with ongoing career and leadership development programs that provide clear paths for advancement into management roles.

The company also emphasizes giving back to the community through its Panda Cares initiative, allowing employees to make a positive impact beyond their immediate work environment. Panda Restaurant Group supports its team members with flexible scheduling, competitive pay ranging from $23 to $26 per hour depending on location and experience, and a comprehensive benefits package for full-time associates. This includes medical, vision, and dental insurance, optional short-term disability and cancer protection, health and dependent care flexible spending accounts, 401(k) with company match, and paid time off such as vacation, sick leave, and bereavement. Additionally, employees enjoy free meals during their shifts, associate discounts, referral bonuses, and various programs that support work-life balance and financial wellness.

For individuals who thrive in a high-energy environment, enjoy interacting with guests, and want to build a rewarding career in the food service industry, the Kitchen Team Associate role at Panda Restaurant Group represents an outstanding opportunity. Beyond the job duties, this role is about becoming part of a family that values respect, integrity, and community involvement. The position requires physical stamina, including the ability to stand for long periods, lift up to 50 pounds, and perform repetitive tasks in a fast-moving kitchen while maintaining safety and quality standards. Panda is committed to creating an accommodating workplace and adheres to all legal requirements under the Americans with Disabilities Act. Overall, Panda offers not only a job but a place to grow, connect with others, and make a difference in guests’ dining experiences and the wider community.