Shift Leader

Panda Restaurant Group, Inc., founded in 1983 in Glendale, California, is the largest family-owned American Chinese restaurant concept in the United States. Boasting nearly 2,800 locations globally, Panda Restaurant Group carries a proud mission of delivering exceptional Asian dining experiences while fostering an environment where people are inspired to better their lives. The company stands by strong family values and is deeply committed to making a positive impact not only within its team but also in the communities it serves. Known for its focus on quality food, excellent service, and vibrant atmosphere, Panda’s restaurants embody a warm and welcoming environment that reflects the organization's dedication to passion, heart, and pride.

Joining Panda as a Shift Leader offers a unique opportunity to take on a vital leadership role in a fast-paced, growth-oriented environment. The Shift Leader, often referred to as a Panda Shift Lead, plays an essential part in supporting restaurant management to bring Panda's mission alive every day. This role involves fostering a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere for guests, assisting in managing daily store operations, and leading the team during shifts to ensure smooth and efficient service. Shift Leaders gain hands-on experience in preparing and cooking Panda’s famous menu items, providing them with valuable culinary skills.

Beyond culinary responsibilities and operational support, Shift Leaders develop a broad range of leadership abilities. They learn how to manage a team, resolve conflicts, adapt to dynamic and changing priorities, and maintain high standards of food safety and customer service. This position is ideal for those looking to gain growth experience within the food service industry and offers a clear path to advancement into management roles within the company.

Panda values its associates and demonstrates this commitment through comprehensive benefits, including flexible work schedules that provide work-life balance, competitive pay ranging from $25 to $28 per hour depending on location and experience, and free meals during shifts. Full-time associates also enjoy medical, vision, and dental insurance, along with voluntary short-term disability and cancer income protection coverage. Other benefits include health care and dependent care flexible spending accounts, a 401K plan with company match, and paid time off including vacation, sick leave, bereavement leave, and participation in the Leave Share Program.

Shift Leaders receive robust, hands-on paid training to ensure they are prepared for success and are offered ongoing career and leadership development opportunities. Panda also incentivizes employee engagement through referral bonuses and associate discounts on many brands. This commitment to employee growth, recognition, and community involvement makes the Panda Restaurant Group a rewarding place to build a career.

Candidates interested in the Shift Leader role must meet education and operational experience expectations, including some high school education and preferably some prior experience in food service operations. Food safety certification such as a local or municipal Food Handler certificate is required and must be obtained at the applicant’s expense. The role demands physical ability to stand for long periods, lift up to 50 pounds, and operate in fast-paced, often hot and noisy kitchen environments. Effective communication, adaptability, and conflict management skills are essential to thrive in this dynamic setting.

Panda Restaurant Group is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to diversity and inclusion. The company does not discriminate based on any legally protected characteristics and complies with all applicable laws regarding workplace accommodations. Individuals who require accommodations during the application or interview process are encouraged to reach out for support.

Overall, the Panda Shift Leader position is an excellent career opportunity within an established and expansive restaurant group that values its people, encourages professional growth, and is dedicated to delivering memorable dining experiences to guests. Ideal candidates will embrace leadership responsibilities, thrive in a fast-paced environment, and contribute to a positive team culture while advancing their skills in food preparation, customer service, and store management.