Kitchen Team

Panda Restaurant Group, Inc. is a family-owned American Chinese restaurant concept founded in Glendale, California, in 1983. With nearly 2,800 locations worldwide, it stands as the largest family-owned Asian dining chain in the United States. The company is committed to delivering exceptional dining experiences through a strong focus on quality food, excellent customer service, and a vibrant, inclusive work culture. Panda Restaurant Group prides itself on fostering an environment where team members are inspired to better their lives while positively impacting the communities they serve. This dedication to family values and community outreach is evident in initiatives such as the Panda Cares program, which encourages employees to give back to their local neighborhoods.

The role of Kitchen Team Associate at Panda offers an excellent opportunity for friendly, motivated individuals who thrive in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment. Whether you have previous experience or are new to the industry, Panda ensures thorough hands-on training to equip you with the skills necessary for success. This position involves a variety of tasks designed to maintain the highest standards of food preparation, customer service, and cleanliness. Associates work across multiple stations, including front counter, drive-through, and kitchen, allowing for a dynamic workday and opportunities to develop a broad skill set.

Kitchen Team Associates are responsible for greeting guests warmly, serving food efficiently, handling transactions accurately, and ensuring the restaurant environment remains clean and inviting. The job demands adherence to rigorous operational and safety procedures to serve fresh, quality meals consistently. Panda values associates who demonstrate teamwork and a positive attitude, contributing to a supportive, fun workplace culture where team members often form lasting friendships.

Panda offers competitive pay ranging between $22 and $25 per hour, dependent on factors such as experience and work location. Full-time associates can access a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, vision, and dental insurance; voluntary short-term disability; cancer income protection plans; flexible spending accounts; and a 401(k) with company match. Additional perks include free meals during shifts, flexible scheduling, paid vacation and sick leave, associate discounts, referral bonuses, and numerous opportunities for career advancement and leadership development.

The role does require physical stamina, as employees often stand for extended periods, work in hot kitchen environments, and handle equipment such as Chinese cook knives. Associates must be capable of lifting up to 50 pounds and adapting to changing priorities within a high-energy workspace. Effective verbal communication skills and the ability to manage potential conflicts professionally are essential. Panda Restaurant Group is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, and provides reasonable accommodations throughout the hiring process to qualified candidates with disabilities.

Working at Panda means joining a team that values your growth and well-being while delivering flavorful Asian cuisine that customers love. Whether your goal is to gain long-term career experience, develop leadership skills, or simply work in a welcoming environment, the Kitchen Team Associate position is a gateway to numerous possibilities within the foodservice and hospitality industries.