Salad and Sandwich Maker - Crossgates

Panera Bread is a renowned bakery-cafe fast casual restaurant chain that has been delighting customers with freshly baked breads, sandwiches, soups, and salads for years. Known for its commitment to quality ingredients and welcoming atmosphere, Panera has established itself as a leader in the food service industry by emphasizing not only the quality of its food but also the experience of its patrons. At Panera, the people – both customers and employees – come first. This belief is embedded in the culture, making it a supportive and inclusive workplace where team members are encouraged to grow and develop both personally and professionally.

As a Retail Team Member specializing as a Salad and Sandwich Maker, you will play a vital role in maintaining Panera’s reputation for fresh, wholesome food and exceptional service. This role is not a fast-food assembly line; rather, you will be preparing and assembling fresh salads, plating soups, and making sandwiches using real ingredients, ensuring every item meets Panera’s high standards. An important aspect of the position is fostering a warm environment where each guest has a great experience through friendly and timely service. Your role will also include maintaining cleanliness and organization in your work area to support a smooth operation and create an inviting space for both guests and fellow team members.

This position offers competitive pay ranging from $16.00 to $19.00 per hour, reflecting the value Panera places on skilled team members. Additionally, Panera provides a robust benefits package, supporting work-life balance and career growth. The work schedule is flexible and reliable, allowing team members to balance their roles with other life priorities. Full-time employees enjoy paid vacation, sick time, and holidays. Medical, dental, vision, life, and even pet insurance options are available along with a 401(k) plan with company match. Beyond these practical benefits, Panera supports career advancement and leadership development, enabling employees to progress within the company. Tuition discounts and a team member assistance program further demonstrate Panera's investment in its employees' futures.

The ideal candidate for this role will be at least 16 years old and possess a basic understanding of food safety regulations, including having a Food Handler's Card where required by law. While prior food service experience is preferred, it is not a requirement, reflecting Panera's openness to training motivated individuals. You should enjoy working with fresh food and thrive in a vibrant, fast-paced environment where priorities can shift throughout the day. Physical demands include the ability to lift or carry items up to 25 pounds, stand and walk for extended periods, and communicate clearly in a busy and potentially noisy setting.

More than just a job, being a Salad and Sandwich Maker at Panera means being part of a culture that values warmth, belonging, growth, and trust. You will be expected to embody Panera’s guiding values by making people smile, collaborating and learning with your colleagues, taking initiative, and celebrating successes together. Ultimately, this role offers a fulfilling opportunity to contribute to a company that cares deeply about the quality of life for its employees and the satisfaction of its customers, all while building a rewarding career in the food service industry.