Kitchen Team Associate

Description:

Panda Restaurant Group is seeking enthusiastic and motivated individuals to join its dynamic Kitchen Team at one of its bustling New York, NY locations. This full-time position is ideal for those passionate about food service, teamwork, and creating memorable dining experiences. Whether you're entering the workforce or seeking career advancement in hospitality, this opportunity offers comprehensive training, a supportive environment, and the potential to grow into leadership roles.

As a Kitchen Team Associate, you will be integral in preparing delicious, high-quality food while upholding Panda’s operational excellence, cleanliness, and customer satisfaction standards. This position is best suited for friendly, team-oriented individuals who thrive in fast-paced, high-energy environments.

Key Responsibilities:

🍜 Guest Service & Operations:

• Greet customers warmly and provide exceptional service at the counter, drive-thru, or dine-in areas.

• Take orders, serve food, and handle transactions efficiently using point-of-sale systems.

• Maintain a positive and respectful attitude toward guests and coworkers.

🍱 Food Preparation & Quality:

• Cook and assemble fresh meals in compliance with Panda’s recipes and quality standards.

• Use commercial kitchen tools including Chinese cook knives, woks, steamers, and grills.

• Follow food safety procedures and local health code requirements rigorously.

🧼 Cleanliness & Safety:

• Keep kitchen and dining areas clean and organized at all times.

• Adhere strictly to sanitation protocols and operational safety guidelines.

• Ensure proper handling and storage of food and supplies.

💪 Team Collaboration:

• Work in coordination with other team members to meet daily performance and customer satisfaction goals.

• Rotate across different kitchen stations and adapt to varying roles as needed.

• Maintain a positive and productive team environment.

Qualifications:

• Friendly, team-oriented mindset with a can-do attitude.

• Prior experience in food service or hospitality is a plus but not mandatory.

• Minimum of some high school education preferred.

• Food Handler certification may be required depending on state/local regulations (must be obtained at own expense).

• Must be physically capable of lifting up to 50 lbs., standing for extended periods, and working in a hot, fast-paced kitchen environment.

Compensation & Benefits:

• Hourly wage: $19 – $22 per hour (equivalent to $3040 – $3520/month)

• Free meals during shifts

• Flexible work schedules

• Paid training and career development programs

• Opportunities for advancement into management positions

• Medical, dental, vision, and voluntary insurance coverage (for full-time associates)

• Health & dependent care flexible spending accounts

• 401(k) with company match

• Vacation, sick leave, bereavement leave, and leave share program

• Associate discounts and referral bonuses

• Community involvement through Panda Cares Initiative

Workplace Environment:
This role requires the ability to work in hot, high-noise environments. Team members must remain standing for long periods and adapt to shifting priorities while maintaining efficiency and composure. A strong work ethic and effective communication are essential.