Kitchen Team Associate

Description:

Panda Restaurant Group, America’s largest family-owned Asian dining brand, is looking for dedicated and enthusiastic Kitchen Team Associates to join its growing restaurant network. This position offers a friendly, inclusive environment where you can learn new skills, grow in your career, and make a meaningful impact in your community. Whether you’re an experienced food service worker or new to the industry, Panda provides full training and ongoing career development to help you thrive.

As a Kitchen Team Associate, you’ll play a vital role in preparing and serving high-quality food, maintaining cleanliness, and ensuring each guest has a memorable dining experience. Panda values teamwork, respect, and personal growth, offering career paths that can lead to management and beyond.

Key Responsibilities:

• Deliver an exceptional guest experience by greeting customers, serving food, and managing transactions efficiently.

• Prepare and cook fresh menu items according to Panda’s high food quality standards.

• Maintain the cleanliness and organization of kitchen, dining, and service areas at all times.

• Follow strict operations, food safety, and hygiene procedures to ensure compliance and quality.

• Work effectively in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment, rotating between positions such as kitchen line, front counter, and drive-thru.

• Communicate clearly with team members and supervisors to meet daily goals and ensure smooth operations.

Qualifications:

• Friendly, dependable, and helpful team player with a positive attitude.

• Previous restaurant or operations experience is an advantage but not required.

• Some high school education preferred.

• Food Handler Certification may be required based on local laws (can be obtained at the employee’s expense).

• Ability to stand for extended periods and perform physical tasks such as lifting up to 50 lbs., bending, and reaching.

Compensation and Benefits:

• Competitive pay range: $19/hr – $22/hr (based on experience and location).

• Flexible work schedules for better work-life balance.

• Free meals during working shifts.

• Comprehensive benefits package for full-time associates, including:

  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance

  • Short-Term Disability and Cancer Income Protection Insurance

  • Health Care & Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts

  • 401(k) with company match

  • Paid Vacation, Sick Leave, and Bereavement Leave

  • Leadership development and career growth programs

  • Associate discounts and referral bonuses

• Opportunities to give back through the Panda Cares community initiative.

(Full details available at Panda Careers Benefits)

Work Environment:

• Fast-paced kitchen and counter areas that can be hot and noisy.

• Work includes standing for long periods and preparing both hot and cold foods.

• Employees may use specialized kitchen tools, including Chinese cook knives.

• Teamwork and adaptability are key to maintaining service quality under pressure.

About Panda Restaurant Group:

Founded in 1983 in Glendale, California, Panda Restaurant Group, Inc. operates nearly 2,300 locations worldwide, including Panda Express, Panda Inn, and Hibachi-San. As a family-owned company, Panda’s mission is to deliver exceptional Asian dining experiences while fostering personal and professional growth for its associates.

Panda believes in diversity, inclusion, and respect for all individuals, empowering its employees to bring their authentic selves to work. The company promotes equality in the workplace and complies fully with all federal, state, and local employment laws.