Kitchen Team

Panda Restaurant Group, Inc., founded in 1983 in Glendale, California, has grown to become the largest family-owned American Chinese restaurant concept in the United States. With nearly 2,800 locations across the globe, Panda Restaurant Group continues its mission of delivering exceptional Asian dining experiences to communities everywhere. The company has built a reputation for fostering a workplace culture that emphasizes family values, teamwork, and community impact. Panda is a company where employees are inspired to better their lives, both personally and professionally, while delivering fresh, quality food to their guests in a welcoming environment. The organization prides itself on inclusivity, with a strong commitment to equal opportunity employment and accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

Joining Panda as a Kitchen Team Associate means becoming part of a friendly, dynamic team environment where there is always something new to learn and accomplish. Whether you have previous experience or are new to the food service industry, Panda offers comprehensive training to help you develop the skills necessary to succeed and grow your career. This role involves more than just cooking; it requires working efficiently in a fast-paced kitchen environment while maintaining the highest standards of cleanliness and food safety. Team members rotate through various positions including the front counter, drive-through, and kitchen areas to provide a well-rounded experience. Associate roles at Panda are designed to be flexible and supportive, encouraging team members to thrive in an environment that values cooperation and positive interaction.

The Kitchen Team Associate position is central to delivering an exceptional dining experience to guests by greeting them warmly, serving food with care, and handling orders and payments accurately at the cash register. Beyond food preparation, associates are responsible for maintaining store cleanliness and appearance, adhering strictly to safety and operational procedures to ensure that every dish served meets quality standards. Panda’s commitment to community service is embedded in this role as well, with associates having opportunities to participate in the Panda Cares initiative, giving back to the communities they serve.

In addition to competitive pay, Panda provides flexible scheduling options to support a healthy work-life balance. Full-time associates benefit from a comprehensive suite of health-related insurance options including medical, vision, and dental coverage, as well as voluntary short-term disability and cancer income protection. The company also offers health and dependent care flexible spending accounts, a 401(k) plan with company match, vacation and sick leave, bereavement and funeral leave, and an innovative leave share program. Employee discounts, referral bonuses, and ongoing career and leadership development programs further enhance the employment experience. Associates can expect hands-on paid training and clear opportunities for promotion, including advancement into management positions.

Physical and environmental requirements for the role include the ability to work in a fast-paced kitchen environment with exposure to heat, steam, and noise. Employees must be capable of standing for extended periods, lifting up to 50 pounds, and using kitchen equipment safely and efficiently. Effective communication skills and adaptability are essential to succeed in this dynamic setting. Panda values diversity and inclusion strongly and strives to create a workplace where all individuals can thrive regardless of background or identity. If accommodations are needed during the application or employment process, Panda ensures reasonable access and support to all qualified individuals.

The Kitchen Team Associate role at Panda is much more than a job; it is an opportunity to become part of a family-oriented company dedicated to quality, community, and employee development. Whether you’re beginning your career or looking to grow within a supportive, fast-moving environment, Panda Restaurant Group offers a fulfilling pathway filled with potential and purpose.