We are currently recruiting an enthusiastic and dedicated Baker to join the Pastry Kitchen team at Ashford Castle, working under our Executive Head Pastry Chef, Benjamin Bourgeois. This is an exciting opportunity to be part of a world‑class pastry operation, delivering exceptional quality in line with Forbes Five‑Star standards and The Red Carnation Hotels standards.
Location: Con, County Mayo, Ireland.
Employment type: Full‑Time.
Working pattern: 5 days over 7 days (including some weekends & Bank Holidays).
Responsibilities
- Assist with creating bread and pastries alongside the Executive Pastry Chef.
- Ensure section stock levels are accurate and requisitioned in line with SOPs.
- Plan, prepare and hand over mise en place in accordance with SOPs.
- Prepare all pastry items in line with recipes and Red Carnation Hotels standards.
- Set up and manage the section to maximise productivity while adhering to Health & Safety and hygiene regulations.
- Maintain clean, organised, labelled and correctly rotated stock.
- Communicate equipment, food or staffing challenges promptly to the Chef on duty.
- Train and support team members to ensure consistent standards and recipe compliance.
- Advise kitchen management on stock ordering in line with business levels, minimising waste.
- Monitor and record fridge temperatures daily in accordance with food safety requirements.
Benefits
- Professional, award‑winning training and development opportunities.
- Discounted accommodation across the Red Carnation Hotel Collection.
- Annual Staff Appreciation Party and employee recognition events.
- Discounted rates with local businesses and third‑party service providers.
- Heavily subsidised accommodation (subject to availability).
- Meals provided on duty.
- Complimentary dry cleaning of business attire.
- Friend and family referral bonus scheme.
- Two paid volunteering days each year.
- Holiday allowance increasing with service, up to 25 days.
- Hotel‑based recognition incentives.
- Free access to the Employee Assistance Programme.
Qualifications
- Successfully graduated with a professional culinary arts degree.
- At least 1 year’s experience within a similar role.
- Good knowledge and practical chef skills within the area of Baking.
- Fluency in both written and spoken English.
- Strong practical pastry skills and technical knowledge.
- Passion for pastry, food production and high‑quality presentation.
- Excellent communication and organisational skills.
- Ability to remain calm and effective in a fast‑paced environment.
- Flexible, innovative and adaptable approach.