Shift Leader

Role summary

Panda Restaurant Group is looking for a Shift Leader to help run restaurant operations and support the management team. In this role, you will contribute to the company’s goal of delivering food with passion, service with heart, and ambiance with pride. The position sits at the center of a busy, growth-focused environment where the team and the guest experience are both essential.

What you will do

• Help create a lively, welcoming atmosphere for guests.
• Take an active role in managing store operations and guiding the team throughout the shift.
• Get practical experience preparing and cooking Panda menu favorites.
• Build a broad set of skills that support both your own growth and the development of others.

Rewards and benefits

• Flexible scheduling options
• Competitive pay
• Complimentary meals during shifts
• Medical, vision, dental, voluntary short-term disability, and cancer income protection coverage for full-time associates
• Health Care and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts
• 401(k) plan with company match
• Vacation, sick leave, bereavement/funeral leave, and Leave Share Program for eligible associates
• Discounts with many partner brands
• Referral bonus for eligible associates
• Opportunities to support the community
• Paid hands-on training to help set you up for success
• Ongoing career and leadership development
• Paths for advancement into management roles
• Pre-tax Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account

Education and experience

Some high school education is expected. Prior operations experience is preferred.

Food safety and compliance

Any local or municipal food safety requirements, such as a Food Handler certification, must be obtained at the applicant’s own expense.

Physical and work environment requirements

This job is performed in a fast-paced restaurant setting where counter areas can be hot, steam and food vapors may be present, and workspaces are limited. Team members are generally expected to stay standing for long periods, prepare both hot and cold food, use a Chinese cook knife and other kitchen equipment, and work quickly while maintaining accuracy. The role requires the ability to lift up to 50 lbs., stand for up to four hours, and reach across 36-inch counters to serve customers. Kitchens are typically hot, noisy, and tight on storage space, with high shelving. Strong verbal communication, adaptability in a changing environment, and the ability to handle conflict or difficult situations are important.

About the company

Panda Restaurant Group, founded in Glendale, California in 1983, is the largest family-owned American Chinese restaurant concept in the United States. With nearly 2,800 locations worldwide, the company focuses on delivering memorable Asian dining experiences and building an organization that helps people improve their lives. It values family principles and community impact.

Equal opportunity and accommodations

The employer provides equal employment opportunity and does not discriminate based on protected characteristics under applicable law, including sex/gender, pregnancy, gender expression, race, color, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, age, ancestry, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, or veteran status. The company also follows federal, state, and local accommodation requirements. Qualified individuals with disabilities may request reasonable accommodations for the hiring process or for the position itself, and applicants needing support during application or interview can contact the provided support email.