Pastry Chef

Bright Search Recruitment (Pty) Ltd; Lephalale; On-site; ZAR 180,000 - 340,000; Full time

Job summary

Bright Search Recruitment (Pty) Ltd seeks an experienced Pastry Chef/Senior Pastry Chef with a strong background in luxury hospitality pastry production. The role requires delivering high-quality, high-volume pastry items in upscale settings such as hotels, lodges, or fine dining establishments.

Candidates should have formal pastry qualifications and HACCP experience. Expect responsibilities around pastry design, menu development, cost control, and ensuring safety and hygiene standards.

Qualifications

• Formal Culinary or Pastry qualification from a recognised institution.
• Food Safety/HACCP Certification.
• First Aid Certification (advantageous).

Skills

Advanced pastry techniques

Cake decorating

Dessert menu planning

Food costing

Inventory management

HACCP knowledge

Commercial pastry equipment operation

Basic computer skills

Education

Diploma or Certificate in Pastry Arts

Formal Culinary or Pastry qualification

Food Safety/HACCP Certification

First Aid Certification

Job description

Minimum Requirements

Grade 12 (Matric). Diploma or Certificate in Pastry Arts, Professional Cookery, Culinary Arts, or a related field. Minimum 35 years' experience as a Pastry Chef or Senior Pastry Chef in a luxury hotel, lodge, resort, bakery, or fine dining restaurant. Experience producing high-volume and premium-quality pastry items.

Qualifications

Formal Culinary or Pastry qualification from a recognised institution. Food Safety/HACCP Certification. First Aid Certification (advantageous).

Technical Skills

• Advanced pastry and baking techniques.
• Cake decorating, chocolate work, sugar work, and artisan bread production.
• Dessert menu planning and recipe development.
• Food costing and portion control.
• Inventory and stock management.
• Knowledge of HACCP and food safety standards.
• Ability to operate commercial pastry equipment.
• Basic computer skills for ordering and recipe management.

Core Competencies

Creativity and innovation in pastry design. Excellent attention to detail. Strong organisational and time management skills. Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines. Team player with strong communication skills. Commitment to quality and consistency. Problem-solving and adaptability. Passion for continuous learning and culinary excellence.

Personal Attributes

Passionate about pastry and baking. Professional and well-presented. Reliable, punctual, and hardworking. Positive attitude and willingness to learn. Calm under pressure. Flexible and adaptable to changing operational needs.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

• Quality and consistency of pastry products.
• Guest satisfaction and feedback.
• Food cost management and waste reduction.
• Compliance with food safety and hygiene standards.
• Timely production for service and events.
• Stock accuracy and inventory management.
• Contribution to menu innovation and seasonal offerings.
• Kitchen cleanliness and audit results.

Working Conditions

Based in a hotel, lodge, resort, restaurant, or commercial bakery. Requires standing for extended periods in a busy kitchen environment. Flexible working hours, including early mornings, evenings, weekends, and public holidays. May be required to work additional hours during peak seasons, weddings, functions, and special events.