Shift Leader

Panda Restaurant Group, Inc., founded in Glendale, California in 1983, is the largest family-owned American Chinese restaurant concept in the United States. With nearly 2,800 locations worldwide, the company is devoted to delivering exceptional Asian dining experiences that are built on family values, community engagement, and a passion for great food. As a leader in the casual dining industry, Panda exemplifies its commitment to its team members by fostering a work environment where individuals are encouraged to grow personally and professionally. This welcoming culture is an integral part of its success and sustained growth throughout the years.

As a company, Panda Restaurant Group values diversity, equality, and inclusion, ensuring that all personnel and applicants receive fair treatment regardless of gender, race, age, disability, or other protected characteristics. The organization is also dedicated to providing reasonable accommodations throughout the hiring process and employment, supporting employees with various needs to thrive in their roles.

The role of a Shift Lead within Panda is vital to maintaining the company’s standards and upholding its mission. As a Shift Lead, you will play a central role in the day-to-day operations of the restaurant, managing the team during your assigned shift to deliver exceptional food, service, and environment to guests. This position offers an excellent opportunity to develop leadership skills, gain hands-on experience in food preparation, and contribute directly to guest satisfaction.

In this fast-paced and growth-oriented environment, you will support your management team in creating a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere for guests. This includes helping to maintain a high level of food quality, ensuring that Panda favorites are prepared with passion and accuracy, while also leading and motivating your colleagues to provide service with heart. The role requires a versatile skill set including operational management, team leadership, and customer service, which will all contribute to your growth as a leader within the company.

You will also be immersed in a supportive culture that values continuous personal development and career progression. Panda offers hands-on paid training to equip you with the skills necessary for success, as well as ongoing leadership development opportunities. The position frequently leads to growth into management roles for those who demonstrate commitment and skills. The learning and development aspect of this role is especially beneficial for candidates looking to build a long-term career within the restaurant industry.

Panda advocates for employee well-being and supports a balanced work life by offering flexible schedules and competitive pay. Full-time associates have access to medical, vision, dental, and other insurance plans, alongside retirement benefits such as a 401K plan with company match. Employees are also eligible for paid time off including vacation, sick leave, bereavement leave, and special leave programs.

Additionally, Panda Shift Leaders enjoy free meals while working, associate discounts, referral bonuses, and opportunities to give back to the community, reinforcing the organization’s family-focused values and culture. This role is ideal for individuals who are passionate about food and hospitality, eager to develop leadership skills, and ready to thrive in a dynamic and fast-paced environment. By joining Panda Restaurant Group as a Shift Lead, you become part of a team that believes its people are the recipe for success.