Kitchen Team Associate

Role Overview

Join our team as a Kitchen Team Associate where you'll contribute to preparing tasty food and ensure our restaurant meets top cleanliness standards. Work alongside friendly colleagues in a welcoming and secure environment, with constant opportunities to learn and grow. Training is provided for those without prior experience. Career advancement is encouraged, and community involvement is part of our culture through our Panda Cares program.

Key Duties

• Deliver excellent dining experiences by greeting guests, serving food, and managing transactions at the register.
• Maintain the store's cleanliness and appearance consistently.
• Adhere to operational standards and safety protocols to serve fresh, high-quality food.
• Adapt to a fast-paced kitchen by working efficiently, potentially rotating among the front counter, drive-through, and kitchen roles.
• Collaborate with team members to achieve daily objectives in a positive and fun atmosphere.

Qualifications and Requirements

• Welcoming and cooperative attitude toward teammates and guests.
• Prior experience in operations is advantageous but not required.
• Some high school education is expected.
• Possession of Food Handler certification may be necessary depending on local rules, with certification expenses borne by the employee.

Benefits and Rewards

• Flexible scheduling options to accommodate diverse needs.
• Competitive pay rates.
• Complimentary meals during shifts.
• Medical, vision, dental, voluntary short-term disability, and cancer income protection insurance for full-time associates.
• Health Care and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts to manage healthcare costs.
• 401(k) plan featuring company matching contributions.
• Paid vacation, sick leave, bereavement leave, and participation in a Leave Share Program for eligible employees.
• Discounts across various brand partners.
• Referral bonuses available to qualifying team members.
• Opportunities to contribute positively to the community.
• Paid, practical training to set associates up for success.
• Ongoing professional development and leadership training programs.
• Clear pathways for advancement into management roles.

Work Environment and Physical Demands

The kitchen workspace involves heat from steam and cooking vapors, limited space, and noise. Employees often stand for extended periods (up to four hours), must be able to lift up to 50 pounds, and reach over counters approximately 36 inches high. Tasks include preparing hot and cold dishes with kitchen tools such as a Chinese cook knife. Quick work with accuracy is essential. Strong verbal communication skills, adaptability to changing priorities, and conflict management abilities are important to succeed.

Company Background

Established in 1983 in Glendale, California, our company has grown into America's largest family-owned Asian restaurant group with nearly 2,800 locations worldwide. We focus on delivering exceptional dining experiences and fostering a workplace that inspires personal and professional growth while valuing family-oriented culture and community impact.

Equal Opportunity Statement

We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities without discrimination based on legally protected characteristics including gender, race, religion, disability, age, veteran status, and more. We comply fully with the Americans with Disabilities Act and provide reasonable accommodations during hiring and employment processes as needed.