Kitchen Team

Panda Restaurant Group, Inc., founded in Glendale, California, in 1983, has grown to become the largest family-owned American Chinese restaurant concept in the United States. With close to 2,800 locations globally, Panda Restaurant Group continues its mission of delivering exceptional Asian dining experiences while fostering an environment where people are inspired to better their lives. Known for its family values and community impact through initiatives like Panda Cares, Panda offers a workplace where team members are not only employees but become friends and contributors to a positive culture. This environment is supportive, safe, and focused on continuous learning and development, making it an ideal setting for individuals passionate about food and customer service.

We are currently seeking a Kitchen Team Associate to join our dynamic team. This role is perfect for friendly team players who enjoy cooking delicious food and maintaining the highest standards of cleanliness and food safety. Whether you have previous experience or are new to the food service industry, Panda provides paid, hands-on training to set you up for success. The Kitchen Team Associate will work efficiently in a fast-paced kitchen environment and may rotate through different positions, including the front counter, drive-through, or kitchen stations. The role involves greeting guests, serving food, handling payments, and ensuring an exceptional dining experience for every guest. Working collaboratively with team members to meet daily goals in a positive and fun environment is a key part of the role.

This position offers flexible schedules and competitive pay ranging from $17 to $20 per hour, depending on factors such as location and experience. Full-time associates benefit from comprehensive medical, vision, and dental insurance, as well as voluntary short-term disability and cancer income protection insurance. Panda Restaurant Group supports its employees with health care and dependent care flexible spending accounts, a 401K plan with company match, and generous paid time off including vacation, sick leave, bereavement, and participation in the Leave Share Program. Beyond the immediate benefits, associates have access to ongoing career and leadership development opportunities with clear paths for promotion into management roles.

The work environment requires physical stamina and the ability to adapt to high-temperature areas with steam and noise, along with the ability to lift up to 50 pounds and remain standing for extended periods. Employees use specialized kitchen equipment, including Chinese cook knives, and must maintain accuracy and speed in their duties. Effective communication skills and conflict management abilities are essential to thrive in this dynamic setting. Panda Restaurant Group is committed to equal employment opportunity and actively complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act, providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals during the hiring process and employment.

Becoming a Kitchen Team Associate at Panda means joining a well-established, values-driven company that invests in its people, offers meaningful benefits, opportunities for growth, and a chance to be part of an enthusiastic and inclusive team dedicated to serving great food and making a positive community impact.