Lead Pastry Chef: Desserts, Pastries & Menu Innovation

Placements24; Centurion; On-site; ZAR 279,000 - 469,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Staff meals

Professional development

Discounts and access to modern kitchen

Job summary

Placements24 is sourcing a talented Pastry Chef for a renowned culinary establishment in Centurion, Gauteng. The role leads the pastry section, creates exquisite desserts, and drives innovative menu concepts for in-house dining and high-end events.

You will oversee production, cost control, inventory, and staff supervision, ensuring top-tier quality and presentation in a fast-paced kitchen environment.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 4 years of experience as a Pastry Chef or in a senior pastry role.
• Formal culinary training with a pastry specialization.
• Proven expertise in a wide range of baking and pastry techniques (doughs, creams, chocolates, sugar work).
• Creative flair and ability to develop unique dessert concepts.
• Strong understanding of pastry-specific food costing and inventory management.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced kitchen environment.
• Leadership experience supervising junior staff.
• Must reside in or be willing to relocate to Centurion, Gauteng area.
• Passion for creating beautiful and delicious desserts.

Responsibilities

• Design, prepare, and present a wide array of pastries, cakes, breads, and desserts to the highest standards.
• Develop new and innovative dessert menus, incorporating seasonal ingredients and current trends.
• Manage the pastry section of the kitchen, including all aspects of production and inventory.
• Ensure strict adherence to all food safety, hygiene, and sanitation regulations.
• Control ingredient costs and manage inventory for the pastry department, minimizing waste.
• Train and supervise junior pastry staff, providing guidance and support.
• Collaborate with the Executive Chef on menu development and special culinary projects.
• Maintain quality and consistency in all pastry items produced.
• Order necessary ingredients and supplies for the pastry section.
• Keep the pastry station clean, organized, and well-stocked.

Skills

Pastry experience

Leadership

Inventory management

Food costing

Creative flair

Attention to detail

Organizational skills

Education

Culinary training (pastry specialization)

Job description

Placements24 is sourcing a talented Pastry Chef for a renowned culinary establishment in Centurion, Gauteng. The role leads the pastry section, creates exquisite desserts, and drives innovative menu concepts for in-house dining and high-end events.

You will oversee production, cost control, inventory, and staff supervision, ensuring top-tier quality and presentation in a fast-paced kitchen environment.