Lead Pastry Chef - Seasonal Creations & Production Leader

gjelinagroup; Dayton (CA); On-site; USD 75,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Gjusta is seeking a Pastry Chef to lead the pastry program, oversee daily production, ensure quality and consistency, and develop seasonal offerings. You will train staff, manage cost controls, and collaborate with culinary leadership to align with Gjusta's identity and guest expectations.

This hands-on leadership role requires strong pastry skills, teamwork, and problem-solving in a fast-paced production environment.

Qualifications

• 5+ years pastry/baking experience preferred.
• Prior pastry leadership in high-volume production.
• Strong understanding of pastry techniques.
• Ability to train and develop pastry staff.
• Excellent organizational and time-management skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead and actively participate in the daily production of pastries, baked goods, desserts, granola, and related pastry products.
• Ensure all pastry items are produced according to established recipes, techniques, portion standards, and presentation specifications.
• Maintain a high standard of quality, consistency, flavor, texture, appearance, and freshness.
• Organize daily production priorities and ensure the team is prepared to meet established pars and business needs.
• Monitor production throughout the day and adjust quantities as necessary based on sales, demand, special orders, transfers, and operational needs.
• Maintain appropriate production levels while minimizing waste and unnecessary overproduction.
• Ensure proper setup, organization, cleanliness, and breakdown of all pastry work areas.
• Maintain working knowledge of pastry equipment and ensure equipment is used, cleaned, and maintained properly.
• Communicate equipment repairs or maintenance needs promptly to culinary and operations leadership.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Production planning

Quality control

Food safety

Cost control

Seasonal development

Menu collaboration

Job description

Gjusta is seeking a Pastry Chef to lead the pastry program, oversee daily production, ensure quality and consistency, and develop seasonal offerings. You will train staff, manage cost controls, and collaborate with culinary leadership to align with Gjusta's identity and guest expectations.

This hands-on leadership role requires strong pastry skills, teamwork, and problem-solving in a fast-paced production environment.