Restaurant Cook

Panda Restaurant Group, a family-owned and operated company founded in Glendale, California, is recognized as one of the largest and fastest-growing Asian restaurant companies in the United States. With a rich history dating back to 1983, Panda has grown from its original Panda Inn fine dining establishments to include Panda Express, a popular Gourmet Chinese food concept served in a fast-casual environment, as well as Hibachi San, a Japanese grill concept. This diverse portfolio allows Panda to cater to a wide range of dining preferences while maintaining a commitment to delivering exceptional Asian dining experiences.

The mission of Panda Restaurant Group centers on inspiring and empowering its people to better their lives while delighting guests with high-quality food and service. The company cultivates a culture rooted in its five fundamental values: Proactive, Respect/Win-Win, Growth, Great Operations, and Giving. These principles foster an environment where associates feel valued, motivated, and supported in their career development.

The company offers competitive benefits and rewarding career opportunities from entry-level roles to management positions. With restaurant opportunities available nationwide, and corporate positions based in Rosemead, California, Panda provides a vibrant, dynamic work atmosphere where personal and professional growth is encouraged. The wage for the cook position ranges from $22 to $25 per hour, with pay determined by factors such as location and individual experience.

The Cook role at Panda Restaurant Group demands individuals with advanced culinary skills, particularly in the preparation of stir-fry dishes that adhere to company recipes and comply with health and safety regulations. This position plays a crucial role in maintaining a high standard of food quality and consistency across Panda's menu offerings. The cook is responsible for preparing ingredients prepared by the Apportioner, mixing sauces and marinades, and ensuring that all cooking is executed with precision and according to company standards for flavor, color, and aroma.

Apart from routine cooking tasks, the role involves operating all kitchen equipment safely, including ranges, BBQ grills, ovens, and deep fryers. The cook also assists management in the development and refinement of new menu specials, helping to innovate and diversify Panda's culinary offerings. Beyond cooking, the position includes supporting the training of hourly staff, assisting with inventory counts, receiving deliveries, and ensuring the freshness and quality of food supplies.

This role requires physical stamina to handle kitchen demands, such as lifting heavy pots or pans, sustained standing, and working fast to meet peak service periods without compromising quality or safety. The ideal candidate demonstrates excellent attention to detail, follows strict hygiene protocols, and can work effectively under pressure. They must also possess strong communication skills and the ability to adapt to a fast-paced, frequently changing work environment.

Working at Panda means becoming part of a community that values family, growth, and giving back. The company provides flexible schedules to accommodate associates' needs, free meals during shifts, and a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, vision, dental insurance, short-term disability, cancer income protection, health care and dependent care flexible spending accounts, and a 401(k) plan with company match. Employees are eligible for vacation, sick leave, bereavement leave, associate discounts, and referral bonuses. Panda also offers ongoing career and leadership development opportunities designed to support associates in advancing into management roles.

Panda Restaurant Group is committed to diversity and inclusion and is an Equal Opportunity Employer, ensuring fair treatment and accommodation for all applicants, including those with disabilities. The company’s dedication to a safe and supportive workplace enriches the overall dining experience by underpinning every aspect of their operations with teamwork and excellence.