Store Manager

About Panda Restaurant Group

Since its founding in 1983 in Glendale, California, Panda Restaurant Group has grown to become the largest family-owned American Chinese restaurant chain in the country, operating nearly 2,800 locations worldwide. The company is dedicated to providing exceptional Asian dining experiences while fostering a culture of family values and inspiring employees to improve their lives and communities.

Role Overview

We are looking for an experienced leader to oversee the daily operations of a single Panda Express store. As the Store Manager, you will be responsible for recruiting and managing staff, directing operations to meet financial objectives, and ensuring outstanding guest service. This position is designed to prepare external hires for advancement along the General Manager development track by providing foundational knowledge of Panda’s culture, operations, and leadership principles.

Training and Advancement

New Store Managers will participate in a comprehensive, paid leadership training program lasting 12 weeks or more, which includes ongoing evaluations and a General Manager certification (GO100). Successful completion will make the candidate eligible for promotion to General Manager.

Compensation and Benefits

• Competitive hourly pay ranging from $25.22 to $35.31 based on location and experience
• Opportunities for bonuses, subject to change at the company’s discretion
• Free meals during shifts
• Medical, dental, vision, and voluntary short-term disability insurance for full-time employees
• 401(k) with company matching
• Paid holidays, time off, bereavement leave, and Leave Share program
• Flexible Spending Account for dependent care
• Discounts on theme parks, gym memberships, and more
• Scholarships and continuous education assistance
• Associate referral bonuses
• Income protection including Life, Disability, and AD&D insurance

Key Responsibilities

• Lead store operations to achieve financial goals and maintain high-quality customer experiences
• Recruit, hire, and train associates, managing team performance effectively
• Ensure compliance with food safety standards and Serve Safe certification requirements
• Manage flexible staffing schedules including opening, closing shifts, evenings, weekends, and holidays

Required Qualifications and Working Conditions

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Willingness to relocate within a 50-mile radius of assigned store
• Availability to work varied schedules driven by business needs
• Food safety knowledge and Serve Safe certification
• Ability to stand for prolonged periods, lift up to 50 lbs., and work in hot, noisy kitchen environments
• Effective verbal communication and ability to adapt to dynamic, fast-paced work settings

Equal Opportunity and Accessibility

Panda Restaurant Group is committed to equal employment opportunities regardless of protected characteristics and provides accommodations for applicants with disabilities to ensure fair participation in the recruitment process.