I applied online. The process took 2 weeks. I interviewed at Panera Bread (Huntington, NY) in Feb 2013
Interview
I attended a group interview at another Panera Bread near the one I was getting hired at. I was getting hired at a brand new one. There were 3 other people with me at the interview. We filled out compliance paper work and were told about the job and history of the company. The interviewer (who was the to-be manager of the new Panera) was really nice and professional.
I applied online. I interviewed at Panera Bread (Harrisburg, PA) in Dec 2025
Interview
There were three interview slots available: 8am, 9am, and 10am. I originally chose the 10am slot. That got canceled and I was told to reschedule. Like a normal sane person, I picked the next latest one, 9am. Then I get another email saying that one is canceled too and to click the link again. At that point the only option left was 8am.
So I wake up at 6am, do my hair, and leave at 7:30 because the email said to arrive 30 minutes early. I get there on time for 8am… and then I’m sitting there for a whole hour waiting to be interviewed.
All of that just to be interviewed to put leaves in a bowl. Meanwhile, I’m overqualified with a degree and actual experience.
The interview was simple and casual, with standard interview questions. They asked availability as well and about obtaining a food handler certification. Good impression and not bad as a first job.
Short interview. Met with the manager and was asked a few basic interview questions. I was then given a tour around the shop and met the other coworkers on shift at the time. Was offered the position shortly after.