Restaurant Operations Intern

Job Description

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

About the Internship

Panda Restaurant Group is offering an exciting opportunity for a motivated and dynamic intern to join their team. This internship provides hands-on experience in restaurant operations, allowing participants to learn from industry professionals in a fast-paced and dynamic environment. Interns will support various initiatives within the restaurant operations team, gaining exposure to a wide range of functions including operations, training, quality assurance, food safety, and culinary development.

Panda is recognized as a leading employer, being the only fast-casual restaurant brand awarded as one of the best places to work. They emphasize a people-first and purpose-driven culture, offering opportunities for personal and professional growth, a strong sense of belonging, and a comprehensive total rewards package.

Responsibilities

• Support store operations during shifts, ensuring food quality, excellent service, and a pleasant ambiance.
• Manage and lead a team of associates during shifts, including delegating tasks and providing coaching and feedback for their development.
• Assist with inventory management, ordering supplies, and maintaining proper food safety and sanitation practices.
• Shadow restaurant managers and team members to gain a deep understanding of daily operations and propose process improvements.
• Successfully complete all assigned 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 standing preferred.
• Must be available to work for the duration of the internship (approximately June-August 2025).
• Must be available to work 30-40 hours per week during the internship period (approximately June-August 2025).
• Strong leadership skills, including the ability to motivate and manage a team in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to provide clear direction and feedback to team members.
• Proactive and self-starter with the ability to work effectively in a team environment.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced and dynamic work setting.
• Willingness to work a flexible schedule, including weekends and holidays.

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior experience in the hospitality industry.
• Student Organization Leadership experience.
• Previous 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.

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, including a competitive salary and benefits package.
• Opportunity to receive college credit (dependent on college/university requirements).

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 work environment involves areas that are often hot with steam from steam tables and food vapors. Workspace is restricted, and employees are generally expected to remain standing for long periods. Duties include preparing hot and cold foods, using kitchen equipment such as a Chinese cook knife, and working quickly with accuracy. 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, noise levels are typically high, storage space is limited, and shelving is high. Employees must be able to work 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, their mission is to deliver exceptional Asian dining experiences by fostering an organization where people are inspired to better their lives. They are proud to embrace family values, impacting both their team and the communities they 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. This includes, but is 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. also 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.