Kitchen Team Member - Panda Express (MacDill AFB - Main Exchange)

Focus Group Services, LLC is a restaurant operations company proudly serving military and university communities across the United States. As a licensed partner since 2019, the company operates nationally recognized restaurant brands including Panda Express, Qdoba, and Zaxby's.

Focus Group Services is honored to support and serve military service members and their families through partnerships with Army & Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES), as well as students and faculty through university dining programs. The company is committed to delivering high-quality food, exceptional service, and memorable guest experiences in every location it operates.

Position Overview

Join our dynamic kitchen team, supporting fast-casual and quick-service restaurant concepts. This role is ideal for dependable, energetic individuals who thrive in high-volume kitchen environments and take pride in food quality, speed, and cleanliness. You will play a key role in food preparation, cooking, and maintaining kitchen standards that ensure consistent, high-quality meals for every guest.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare and assemble menu items according to brand-specific recipes and portion standards,
• Perform kitchen prep duties including chopping, marinating, breading, portioning, and stocking ingredients
• Operate kitchen equipment such as woks, grills, fryers, ovens, rice cookers, steam tables, and food prep tools safely and efficiently
• Cook proteins, vegetables, sauces, rice, and sides while maintaining speed, accuracy, and quality
• Prepare made-to-order items such as bowls, plates, burritos, tacos, wraps, salads, chicken meals, and sides
• Follow all food safety, sanitation, and temperature control guidelines in compliance with company policies and health regulations
• Maintain a clean and organized kitchen, including workstations, prep tables, walk-ins, freezers, and dish areas
• Communicate effectively with front-of-house and kitchen team members to support smooth operations during peak service times
• Receive and store deliveries, rotate inventory using FIFO standards, and assist with basic inventory management
• Uphold brand consistency, presentation, and quality standards across all menu items
• Assist with opening and closing kitchen procedures, including cleaning, restocking, and equipment startup/shutdown
• Perform other duties as assigned

Experience & Qualifications

• Previous BOH, kitchen, or food prep experience preferred but not required; training will be provided
• Experience in quick service or fast-casual restaurant environments (Asian, Mexican, or chicken-focused concepts) is a plus
• Ability to follow standardized recipes, prep guides, and cooking procedures
• Working knowledge of food safety, sanitation, and safe equipment use
• Strong time management and multitasking skills in a fast-paced environment
• Team-oriented attitude with a strong work ethic and attention to detail
• Ability to follow instructions and adapt quickly during busy shifts

Schedule & Work Hours

• Flexible availability including days, nights, weekends, and holidays as business needs require
• This position is hourly and non‑exempt, eligible for overtime pay in accordance with applicable wage and hour laws
• Meal and rest breaks provided in accordance with company policy and labor regulations

Education Background

• High school diploma or GED preferred, but not required
• Basic literacy and numeracy skills required to follow recipes, labels, and safety procedures
• Ongoing training provided for food safety, equipment use, and brand standards

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand and work on your feet for extended periods
• Ability to lift, carry, and move 25–50 pounds
• Frequent bending, reaching, pushing, pulling, and walking
• Ability to work in varying kitchen temperatures and conditions

Work Environment

• Fast-paced, high-energy kitchen setting
• Exposure to hot equipment, fryers, sharp knives, and commercial kitchen tools
• Flexible scheduling, including mornings, nights, weekends, and holidays

Core Competencies

• Food Quality & Consistency
• Teamwork & Collaboration
• Reliability & Accountability
• Attention to Detail
• Speed & Efficiency
• Safety & Sanitation
• Positive Attitude

Focus Group Services, LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive, respectful workplace free from discrimination and harassment. Employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business needs.

Pay: $16.00 per hour

Application Question(s):

• What interests you in working at a licensed Panda Express at the military base/installation?
• What is your availability during the week? Can you work weekends?
• Working on the base requires individuals to have a REAL ID or another acceptable form of federally compliant ID. Do you have a REAL ID?
• This position requires passing a federal background check as a condition of employment. Are you able to meet this requirement?
• Have you worked on base? If so, please share about your experience.
• Do you have reliable transportation? This role requires arriving on site on time and accessing a secured military installation. Are you able to reliably meet this requirement?
• What is your expected pay rate?

Education:

• High school or equivalent (Preferred)

Experience:

• Kitchen: 1 year (Preferred)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $16