Does Panda Express Hire Felons?
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Panda Express conducts background checks but considers applicants individually. Many locations hire people with records for kitchen and service roles.
Panda Express does hire some people with felony records. Unlike many fast food chains, Panda Express is primarily corporate-owned (with some franchise locations in non-traditional venues like airports and malls), which means hiring policies are more consistent across locations. The company conducts background checks but uses individualized assessment. Panda Express is the largest Asian-American restaurant chain in the United States with over 2,500 locations. The company has a strong internal culture focused on personal development and growth, and kitchen team and service roles are generally accessible for people with non-violent criminal records. The company values work ethic and character, and many locations are willing to give second chances.
Hiring by Position
| Position | Felon Friendly? | Background Check | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kitchen Team Member | Yes | Yes — standard criminal check | Wok cooking and food preparation. Most accessible role. Training provided. |
| Service Team Member | Yes | Yes — standard criminal check | Serving food, customer interaction, cash handling. |
| Shift Leader | Case-by-case | Yes — standard criminal check | Supervisory role. Internal promotion from team member is common. |
| Assistant Manager / General Manager | Case-by-case | Yes — comprehensive check | Full management responsibilities with cash and inventory oversight. |
Panda Express Hiring Approach
Panda Express is the largest Asian-American restaurant chain in the United States, founded in 1983 by Andrew and Peggy Cherng. The company operates over 2,500 locations, the majority of which are corporate-owned. This means hiring policies are more standardized than at franchise-dependent chains. Panda Express conducts background checks on new hires but evaluates results individually. The company places significant emphasis on its internal culture of personal growth and development — the 'Panda Way' — which includes giving people opportunities to prove themselves. Kitchen team and service roles regularly hire people with criminal records, particularly those with non-violent offenses. The company's corporate-owned model means the second chance hiring culture comes from leadership and is consistent across locations.
Background Check Process
Panda Express conducts background checks through a third-party provider after a conditional job offer. The check typically includes criminal history search and Social Security verification. The process usually takes 3-5 business days. Panda Express follows FCRA requirements and applicable ban-the-box laws. The company evaluates criminal records individually, considering the nature of the offense, time elapsed, and relevance to the position.
Tips for Getting Hired
Apply online through Panda Express careers or visit your local restaurant. Kitchen team positions are the most accessible starting point. Panda Express values enthusiasm and willingness to learn — their food preparation involves wok cooking and specific techniques that they train for. Be honest about your background and emphasize your desire to work hard and grow. Panda Express has a strong promote-from-within culture, so an entry-level position can lead to shift leader and management roles.
Application Tips for People with Records
- 1.Apply online at pandacareers.com or visit your local Panda Express to ask about openings.
- 2.Target kitchen team member positions — these are the most accessible and training is provided.
- 3.Emphasize willingness to learn and grow. Panda Express values personal development.
- 4.Be available for lunch rushes and weekends when staffing needs are highest.
- 5.Highlight any prior food service or kitchen experience.
- 6.Panda Express promotes from within — express interest in long-term growth during interviews.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Does Panda Express hire felons?
- Panda Express does hire some people with felony records. The company conducts background checks but evaluates results individually. Kitchen and service roles are the most accessible.
- Does Panda Express do background checks?
- Yes, Panda Express conducts background checks on new hires after a conditional job offer.
- Is Panda Express corporate or franchise?
- The majority of Panda Express locations are corporate-owned, meaning hiring policies are relatively consistent across locations.
- Does Panda Express drug test?
- Panda Express drug testing policies vary by position and location. Most entry-level positions do not require pre-employment drug testing.
- What positions are available at Panda Express?
- Panda Express hires kitchen team members, service team members, shift leaders, and managers. Kitchen team is the most accessible entry point.
Take Action — Direct Links
- Panda Express Careers
Search and apply for positions at Panda Express locations.
- National HIRE Network
Free resources for people with criminal records seeking employment.
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