Job Description

Head Pastry Chef
Type: Full-Time, Salaried Exempt
The Opportunity
We are seeking a modern, creative, and trend-conscious Head Pastry Chef to take full command of our pastry department. This is more than just a management role; it's an opportunity to be the creative force behind a world-class dessert and bread program. You will have the freedom to imagine, design, and execute a pastry menu that surprises and delights our guests, making you a key player in our restaurant's story and success.
What You'll Do:
Creative & Culinary Leadership:

• Develop and execute a dynamic, innovative, and seasonally-driven pastry menu for restaurant desserts, petits fours, and bread service.
• Design and create stunning plated desserts, viennoiserie, chocolates, and entremets that are as visually arresting as they are delicious.
• Stay ahead of culinary trends, incorporating modern techniques, global flavors, and unique ingredients in a thoughtful way.
• Manage all aspects of the pastry kitchen, including inventory, ordering, cost control, and maintaining strict hygiene and safety standards (HACCP).
• Foster a collaborative relationship with the Executive Chef and savory team to ensure a seamless guest experience.

Operational Excellence:

• Oversee all pastry production, ensuring consistency, quality, and precision in every item that leaves the kitchen.
• Manage food costs, labor costs, and kitchen budgets effectively without compromising on quality.
• Source the finest ingredients, building relationships with local purveyors, farmers, and artisans.
• Maintain impeccable organization and cleanliness throughout the pastry kitchen.

Team Development & Culture:

• Lead, mentor, and inspire a team of pastry cooks and bakers, fostering an environment of creativity, continuous learning, and excellence.
• Conduct regular training sessions on new techniques, recipes, and plating standards.
• Manage staffing, scheduling, and performance reviews for the pastry department.

Who You Are:

• A passionate pastry artist with a proven track record as a Head Pastry Chef, Executive Pastry Chef, or Pastry Sous Chef in a high-volume, fine-dining, or upscale hotel environment.
• A creative powerhouse with an exceptional eye for detail and a portfolio of beautiful, original pastry work.
• Deeply knowledgeable in classical and modern pastry techniques, with expertise in areas such as chocolate work, sugar art, laminated doughs, and plated dessert composition.
• Highly organized and business-savvy, with strong skills in kitchen management, inventory software, and financial acumen.
• A natural leader and motivator who thrives on developing talent and building a cohesive, positive team culture.
• A trend-spotter who is constantly curious, researching new flavors, and pushing the boundaries of what's possible in pastry.

Qualifications:

• Culinary degree or equivalent certification in Pastry Arts.
• years of experience in a pastry leadership role.
• Comprehensive knowledge of food safety and sanitation standards, with relevant certifications.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment, manage multiple priorities, and meet deadlines.
• Must be able to work a flexible schedule, including nights, weekends, and holidays.

What We Offer:

• A competitive salary and performance-based bonus potential.
• A platform for your creativity with the autonomy to build a nationally-recognized pastry program.
• Access to high-quality ingredients and state-of-the-art equipment.
• Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, and paid time off.
• Opportunities for professional development and culinary competitions.
• A collaborative and supportive work environment where your ideas are valued.

Skills Required