People Operations Partner - Dallas, TX

This role serves as a strategic HR partner to Operations leadership (VPO/RDO/ACO) in assigned region(s), focusing on people planning, coaching, staffing, and associate relations. Responsibilities cover approximately 80–120 stores.

Responsibilities

• Partner with Operations leadership (primarily VPOs, RDOs, ACOs) to facilitate People Planning, develop and coach Operations management, evaluate internal candidates, and identify high-potential associates; participate in panel interviews.
• Conduct field visits and interviews to identify retention improvement opportunities.
• Coach Operations leadership on associate relations, conduct timely investigations into complaints/disputes, and resolve issues while escalating complex matters to Field HR Directors or the Office of Dispute Resolution.
• Assist in developing and executing Regional Strategic Staffing Plans to maintain internal and external candidate pipelines; forecast staffing needs to fill vacant Operations management positions.
• Participate in Open House events and career fairs supported by Support Center Recruiters.
• Advise Operations leadership on effective performance evaluations and associate career/personal development.
• Follow up with new hires through the Keep In Touch Program to reinforce Panda’s Mission, Vision, Values, and Culture, and ensure access to training opportunities.
• Coordinate with the Decentralized Learning Manager to deliver local training sessions for Operations management (e.g., 7 Habits, Sexual Harassment, Interviewing Skills, Conducting Effective Performance Reviews, Creating Individual Development Plans).

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree required; business and/or HR majors preferred.
• 7+ years of HR experience, with 5+ years as an HR Generalist in associate relations, training/development, recruiting, and people management, or equivalent Operations management experience (retail/hospitality preferred).
• Must reside in the Dallas, Texas area.
• Successful completion of initial and periodic required trainings.
• Obtain a valid Food Handler’s Card within 30 days of employment.

Work Environment

This role involves regular local travel and occasional overnight travel (25–50%), varying by region. Candidates must be able to meet these requirements, with or without reasonable accommodations.

Benefits

• 401K with company match
• Yearly bonus opportunity
• Full medical, dental, and vision insurance
• On-site fitness center, biometric screenings, and flu shot clinic
• Discounts at Panda restaurants, theme parks, and gym memberships
• Paid time off starting at 15 days plus 7 federal holidays
• Continuous education assistance and scholarships
• Income protection (Disability, Life, and AD&D insurance)
• Bereavement leave

Pay

Range: $112,500 - $158,000 annually. Individual pay is determined by factors including work location and experience.