Restaurant Operations Intern

Job Description

This document outlines a detailed job description for a non-remote internship position at Panda Restaurant Group. This is a paid, hands-on opportunity within restaurant operations, designed for motivated individuals seeking to gain practical experience in the hospitality industry.

Panda Restaurant Group: Restaurant Operations Intern

THIS IS NOT A REMOTE POSITION – THIS INTERNSHIP TAKES PLACE INSIDE OUR RESTAURANTS.

About the Internship

Panda Restaurant Group is offering an exciting internship to join our team, providing hands-on experience in restaurant operations. Interns will learn from industry professionals in a fast-paced environment and support various initiatives within the restaurant operations team. This role offers exposure to a variety of functions including operations, training, quality assurance, food safety, and culinary development.

Panda is committed to growth and inspiring better lives for its team members. Recognized as one of the best places to work in the fast-casual sector, Panda offers a supportive culture rooted in people-first and purpose-driven values, alongside competitive total rewards and growth potential.

Responsibilities

• Support store operations during shifts, ensuring high standards for food preparation, customer service, and ambiance.
• Manage and lead a team of associates during shifts, delegating tasks, and providing coaching and feedback to foster their development.
• Assist with inventory management, including ordering supplies and ensuring compliance with food safety and sanitation practices.
• Shadow restaurant managers and team members to develop a deep understanding of daily operations and contribute recommendations for process improvements.
• Successfully complete all assigned training modules.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support the restaurant operations team.

Program Requirements

• Currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in hospitality, business administration, or a related field. Sophomore and junior students are preferred.
• Must be available to work for the full duration of the internship (approximately June-August 2025).
• Must be available to work 30-40 hours per week for the internship duration (approximately June-August 2025).
• Possess strong leadership skills, including the ability to motivate and manage a team in a fast-paced environment.
• Demonstrate excellent communication skills and the ability to provide clear direction and feedback.
• Be proactive, a self-starter, and capable of working effectively in a team environment.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced and dynamic work setting.
• Willingness to work a flexible schedule, which includes weekends and holidays.

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior experience in the hospitality industry.
• Leadership experience in student organizations.
• Prior restaurant working hours and a Food Safety card.

Benefits

• Paid internship at a competitive rate.
• Hands-on experience in restaurant operations and exposure to various functions within Panda Restaurant Group.
• Mentorship and guidance from industry professionals.
• Networking opportunities with other interns and industry leaders.
• Sick time.
• Potential for a return offer upon successful completion of the internship.

Compensation

• Paid internship commensurate with experience related to position requirements.
• Upon successful completion of the internship program, some participants may be offered full-time employment, which includes a competitive salary and benefits package.
• Opportunity to receive college credit (dependent on college/university requirements).

Application Process

To apply, please submit a resume. Only applicants authorized to work in the United States will be considered. Panda Restaurant Group is an equal opportunity employer.

ADA Statement

The role involves working in counter areas that are often hot with steam and food vapors. The workspace is restricted, requiring employees to stand for extended periods. Duties include preparing hot and cold foods, using kitchen equipment (including a Chinese cook knife), and working quickly and accurately. Employees must be able to lift up to 50 lbs., stand for up to four hours, and reach across countertops (36 inches) to serve customers. Kitchens are hot and noisy; storage space is limited and shelving is high. The ideal candidate must thrive in a fast-paced environment, possess effective verbal communication skills, adapt to dynamic environments with changing priorities, and manage conflicts/difficult situations.

Panda Strong Since 1983

Founded in Glendale, California, Panda Restaurant Group is the largest family-owned American Chinese Restaurant concept in America, with nearly 2,300 global locations. Our mission is to deliver exceptional Asian dining experiences and build an organization where people are inspired to better their lives. We are proud to be an organization that embraces family values, impacting both our team and the communities we serve.

You’re Wanted Here

Panda Restaurant Group, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to providing equal opportunity and does not discriminate on the basis of any characteristic protected by law, including but not limited to sex/gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, lactation, and related conditions), gender expression, race, color, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, age, ancestry, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, and veteran status. Panda Restaurant Group, Inc. complies with all federal, state, and local laws regarding requests for workplace accommodation. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) prohibits discrimination against qualified individuals on the basis of disability. Applicants are entitled to reasonable accommodations, absent undue hardship, to effectively participate in the application and hiring process (e.g., sign language interpreters). If you believe you require an accommodation for the application or interview process or for the position for which you are applying, please reach out to TASupport@PandaRG.com.