Lead Pastry Chef - Creative Desserts & Menu Innovation

Placements24; South Africa; On-site; ZAR 180,000 - 300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary and bonuses

Opportunities for growth and creative 

High-end culinary environment

Staff meals and dining discounts

Training and development programs

Job summary

Placements24 in Stellenbosch is seeking a talented Pastry Chef to craft pastries, desserts, breads, and other baked goods for the restaurant, banquets, and special events. The ideal candidate excels in pastry techniques, artistic presentation, and menu development.

You will lead the pastry section, manage inventory and costing, train junior staff, and collaborate with the Executive Chef to deliver exceptional dessert experiences in a prestigious dining environment.

Qualifications

• Proven pastry chef experience in reputable establishments.
• Strong pastry techniques in baking, sugar work, chocolate tempering.
• Excellent artistic skills for dessert decoration and presentation.
• Proficiency in recipe development and costing.
• Strong understanding of food safety and sanitation standards.
• Train and supervise junior pastry cooks and assistants.
• Flexibility to work weekends/holidays as required.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and bake pastries, desserts, cakes, breads, and other baked goods.
• Develop new and innovative dessert recipes and menu items.
• Ensure consistent quality and presentation of pastry products.
• Manage the pastry section: inventory, ordering, and cost control.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary work environment.
• Collaborate with the Executive Chef on menu planning and events.
• Train and supervise junior pastry cooks and assistants.
• Monitor stock levels and ensure efficient ingredient use.

Skills

Pastry chef experience

Pastry techniques

Dessert decoration

Recipe costing

Food safety

Team supervision

Education

Culinary qualifications in pastry arts

Job description

Placements24 in Stellenbosch is seeking a talented Pastry Chef to craft pastries, desserts, breads, and other baked goods for the restaurant, banquets, and special events. The ideal candidate excels in pastry techniques, artistic presentation, and menu development.

You will lead the pastry section, manage inventory and costing, train junior staff, and collaborate with the Executive Chef to deliver exceptional dessert experiences in a prestigious dining environment.