Kitchen Team

Panda Restaurant Group, Inc., established in 1983 and founded in Glendale, California, stands as the largest family-owned American Chinese restaurant concept in the United States. With nearly 2,800 locations worldwide, Panda Restaurant Group continues to grow by delivering authentic and exceptional Asian dining experiences to its guests. The company is proud of its family-oriented values and its commitment to inspiring team members to improve their lives while making a positive impact in the communities where it operates. Renowned for a welcoming work environment that nurtures collaboration and mutual support, Panda emphasizes real growth opportunities, career development, and community engagement through initiatives like Panda Cares. The company is an Equal Opportunity Employer and fosters inclusivity by ensuring equal treatment of all employees and applicants regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, disability status, and other protected characteristics under law. Moreover, the organization complies fully with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) by providing reasonable accommodations during the application and hiring processes.

The role of Kitchen Team Associate at Panda Restaurant Group is designed for friendly team players who are passionate about cooking and maintaining cleanliness to ensure guests enjoy a high-quality dining experience. This role provides an inclusive and supportive environment where team members are empowered to learn new skills and advance their careers, regardless of prior experience, with full training provided if necessary. Kitchen Team Associates work in a fast-paced kitchen environment that requires efficiency and versatility, as they may rotate through various positions such as front counter, drive-through, or kitchen duties. The responsibilities extend beyond cooking to include delivering exceptional guest service, working closely with teammates to meet daily operational goals, and upholding the company's safety and cleanliness standards.

Employees in this role can expect competitive pay ranging from $23 to $26 per hour, which varies depending on factors such as work location and prior experience. Panda also offers a comprehensive benefits package for full-time associates, including medical, vision, and dental insurance; voluntary disability and cancer income protection; flexible spending accounts for health and dependent care; a 401K plan with company match; paid time off including vacation, sick leave, bereavement, and a Leave Share Program; associate discounts; referral bonuses; and hands-on, paid training opportunities. Additionally, there are extensive career advancement opportunities and leadership development programs available for dedicated team members. The physical demands of the role include standing for extended periods, lifting up to 50 pounds, and operating in a high-temperature and high-noise kitchen environment, emphasizing the need for stamina, adaptability, and effective communication skills.

By joining the Panda team as a Kitchen Team Associate, candidates embark on a rewarding career path at a company where teamwork, respect, safety, and community involvement are core values. The position offers much more than a job—it provides a platform for growth, learning, and meaningful contribution while working with a passionate group of colleagues committed to delivering exceptional dining experiences every day.