Kitchen Team Associate

Join Our Kitchen Team

We are seeking enthusiastic team players to join our kitchen staff, where you will prepare tasty meals while upholding top cleanliness standards for our customers. Work in a supportive atmosphere alongside colleagues who become your friends. You will constantly find new challenges and opportunities to develop your skills. Experience is not required, as comprehensive training is provided. This role also offers chances for career advancement and personal growth. Additionally, you can participate in community outreach programs through our Panda Cares initiative.

Key Responsibilities

• Deliver excellent dining experiences by greeting guests, serving food, and processing payments.
• Keep the store clean and orderly to maintain a welcoming environment.
• Adhere strictly to operational and safety guidelines to ensure fresh and quality food preparation.
• Work effectively in a fast-paced kitchen setting across various stations including front counter, drive-thru, and kitchen areas.
• Collaborate with teammates to achieve daily goals in a positive and engaging workplace.

Qualifications

• Friendly demeanor and strong team orientation.
• Previous experience in operations is beneficial but not mandatory.
• At least some high school education completed.
• Food Handler certification may be required based on local regulations, to be obtained at your own cost.

Benefits and Rewards

• Flexible work schedules to accommodate your needs.
• Competitive pay rates.
• Complimentary meals during shifts.
• Medical, vision, dental, and voluntary short-term disability and cancer protection insurance for full-time employees.
• Health Care and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts.
• 401(k) retirement plan with company matching contributions.
• Paid vacation, sick leave, bereavement leave, and a Leave Share program for qualifying associates.
• Employee discounts across multiple brands.
• Referral bonuses for eligible team members.
• Opportunities to contribute to community initiatives.
• Hands-on paid training designed to ensure your success.
• Continuous leadership and career development programs.
• Potential to advance into management roles.

Work Environment and Physical Requirements

The kitchen environment can be hot and noisy, with steam and food vapors present. Workspaces may be confined and require standing for extended periods. Tasks include preparing hot and cold food items using specialized kitchen tools such as Chinese cook knives and other equipment, demanding speed without sacrificing accuracy. Employees must be capable of lifting up to 50 pounds, standing for up to four hours, and reaching over counters approximately 36 inches high. Effective communication skills and the ability to adapt to changing priorities and manage conflicts are essential.

About Panda Restaurant Group

Established in Glendale, California, Panda Restaurant Group is the largest family-owned American Chinese restaurant chain in the United States with nearly 2,800 locations worldwide. We are dedicated to providing outstanding Asian dining experiences while fostering a workplace where people are inspired to improve their lives, embracing family values, and positively impacting both employees and the communities we serve.

Equal Opportunity Employer

We celebrate diversity and are committed to providing equal employment opportunities regardless of gender, race, religion, disability, age, veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristic. We comply with federal, state, and local laws concerning workplace accommodations. If you require assistance during the application or interview process, please contact our support team for reasonable accommodations.