Panda has a very extensive and time consuming hiring process. When you first apply and get a phone call, expect to not fully get hired for at least a month or two. You will most likely go through multiple interviews including, phone, in-store with managers, and OJP or on job preview. The hiring managers will talk you up about how great Panda is and how much you can earn. It would all sound very prospective and wonderful but, you will soon find out that the world of Panda is not all that it seems. Hidden within the walls there are toxic management who do not care about your well being, your life, or your concerns. This was so appalling especially since the Founders have implemented a culture in which everyone should abide by. Unfortunately this is not so. Too bad Andrew and Peggy Cherng, the owners and founders, do not know about such toxic management that is ruining the foundation they have built. I truly loved their pursuit to better peoples lives, but unfortunately it did not better my life, nor did it better lives around me. You will drive over 50 miles and over an hour and a half to work in traffic and another hour back home late at night each day. You will work over 65, and even over 70 hours some weeks with no days off. Some months you will have worked 3 to 4 weeks straight with only 1 day off. You are expected to manage the store with owner mentality without owners pay. Your body with be physically broken. My hands have nerve damage from constantly cooking and doing dishes as a manager to cover cooks. You will be thrown into new stores or stores that need your cooking skills. If you are someone who is a strong cook, they will use you until you are broken. Physically I've never been so strained and exhausted in my life. Not only that I held it all together mentally. It's a challenge you don't want to miss especially if you love military dictatorship style training. Also, be prepared to feel all the guilt when you put in your 2 weeks. They will do everything they can to keep you there, but it's already too late. Rumors are also created, not sure if they are true or not, but I later found out from a colleague that the ACO and RDO's told everyone that I was a no call no show. I could not believe it! Very disgusting. I wouldn't be surprised if they submitted false termination forms. I would never want this upon anyone. Working here if you are 18 as your first or 2nd job is fine you will learn a lot about guest service and food safety, but if you are older and looking for a career, I would highly recommend you look elsewhere. Best of luck on your endeavors.
