Pastry Chef / CDP-Luxury 5 • Lodge

Bright Search Recruitment (Pty) Ltd; South Africa; On-site; ZAR 200 000 - 300 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in South Africa is seeking a skilled Pastry Chef to create and innovate a variety of baked goods and desserts. The ideal candidate will ensure high standards of quality and presentation while leading a team of pastry assistants. Responsibilities include menu planning, cost control, and maintaining hygiene standards. Join us to enhance our culinary offerings and delight our guests with exceptional desserts.

Qualifications

• Experience in creating a variety of baked goods and desserts.
• Ability to lead and train junior bakers.

Responsibilities

• Create and innovate baked goods, pastries, and desserts.
• Monitor stock levels and ensure ingredient freshness.
• Maintain high standards of food safety and hygiene.

Skills

Menu Planning

Innovation

Quality Control

Team Supervision

Cost Control

Job description

Create a variety of baked goods, pastries, and desserts for daily service, special events, and guest requests.

• Ensure consistency in taste, presentation, and quality.
• Menu Planning and Innovation

Develop and update dessert menus based on seasonality, guest preferences, and lodge themes.

• Innovate new recipes and presentation ideas to enhance the culinary offering.

Monitor stock levels of pastry ingredients; order supplies as needed while minimizing waste.

• Ensure freshness and proper storage of all ingredients.
• Quality Control

Maintain high standards of food safety, hygiene, and presentation in all pastry and baking operations.

• Conduct regular quality checks on ingredients and finished products.
• Team Supervision and Training

Lead and train pastry assistants or junior bakers, ensuring efficient kitchen workflow and adherence to recipes.

• Support cross-training efforts with other kitchen staff when needed.
• Event and Special Order Preparation

Prepare custom cakes, plated desserts, and themed pastries for weddings, events, and guest celebrations.

Work closely with the Executive Chef and kitchen team to align pastry service with overall meal planning and timing.

• Cost Control and Inventory

Track usage, manage portion sizes, and control costs without compromising quality.

• Health and Safety Compliance

Follow all hygiene regulations and ensure cleanliness of pastry prep areas and equipment.

• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of food handling standards.
• Guest Interaction (if applicable)
• Occasionally present or explain desserts to guests, especially for tastings or special events.