Restaurant Operations Intern

Job Description

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

Panda Restaurant Group is offering an exciting internship opportunity for motivated and dynamic individuals to gain hands-on experience in restaurant operations. This paid internship allows you to learn from industry professionals in a fast-paced and dynamic environment, supporting various initiatives within the restaurant operations team.

At Panda, growth is a core value. We are committed to inspiring better lives for our team members, reflected in our recognition as one of the best places to work among fast casual restaurant brands. Our culture is people-first and purpose-driven, fostering a sense of belonging and offering stellar total rewards, unparalleled earning, and growth potential.

Responsibilities

• Support daily store operations, ensuring food quality, excellent service, and maintained ambiance.
• Manage and lead a team of associates during shifts, delegating tasks, and providing coaching and feedback for their development.
• Assist with inventory management, including ordering supplies, and ensuring adherence to proper food safety and sanitation practices.
• Shadow restaurant managers and team members to gain a comprehensive understanding of day-to-day 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 standing preferred.
• Must be available to work 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).
• Demonstrated strong leadership skills, including the ability to motivate and manage a team in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to provide clear direction and constructive feedback to team members.
• Proactive and self-starting individual 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 is a plus.
• Student Organization Leadership experience is a plus.
• Prior restaurant working hours and a Food Safety card are preferred.

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 experienced 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).

To Apply

Please submit a resume. Only applicants who are authorized to work in the United States will be considered. Panda Restaurant Group is an equal opportunity employer.

Physical Requirements (ADA Statement)

While performing duties, employees frequently encounter hot counter areas with steam from steam tables and food vapors. The workspace is restricted, and employees are generally expected to remain standing for long periods. Employees must be able to prepare hot and cold foods, use a Chinese cook knife and other kitchen equipment, and work quickly without sacrificing accuracy. The role requires the ability to lift up to 50 lbs., stand for up to four hours, and reach across countertops measured at 36 inches to serve customers. Kitchens are typically hot with high noise levels; storage space is limited, and shelving is often high. Employees must be capable of working in a fast-paced environment, possessing effective verbal communication skills, the ability to adapt to dynamic environments with changing priorities, and the ability to 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 locations globally. Our mission is to deliver exceptional Asian dining experiences by building 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 and is committed to providing equal opportunity. We do 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. Additionally, 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.