Pastry Chef

Capsicum Culinary Studio; Pretoria; On-site; ZAR 180,000 - 300,000; Full time

Job summary

Capsicum Culinary Studio in Pretoria seeks an experienced Senior Pastry Chef to lead the pastry team, ensuring high-quality desserts and breads daily. You will develop creative, on-trend recipes while refining workflows, managing stock, and maintaining strict hygiene standards.

The role requires at least 3 years in a senior pastry position, a culinary diploma or certification is advantageous, and strong leadership abilities to mentor junior staff.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a pastry chef, baker, or senior pastry role.
• Strong knowledge of baking techniques, ingredients and decorating methods.
• Creativity and attention to detail in food presentation.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and bake a full range of pastries, breads, cakes, and desserts daily.
• Create visually striking desserts using advanced decorating techniques.
• Develop and refine recipes to keep the menu fresh and on trend.
• Manage the pastry section's daily workflow and efficiency.
• Control stock of baking ingredients and place orders as needed.
• Minimise waste and manage ingredient usage to optimise food costs.
• Maintain food safety and hygiene standards at all times.
• Coordinate with the wider kitchen team on food preparation.
• Train and mentor junior pastry staff, guiding technique and decoration methods.

Skills

Pastry expertise

Decorating techniques

Leadership & mentoring

Time management

Menu development

Education

Culinary diploma/certification

Job description

This is a hands-on role for someone who loves precision baking as much as bold, creative flair. You will be trusted to keep standards consistently high while bringing fresh ideas to a menu that guests remember long after they have left the brush.

Core Responsibilities:

• Prepare and bake a full range of pastries, breads, cakes, and desserts daily
• Create visually striking desserts using advanced decorating techniques
• Develop and refine recipes to keep the menu fresh and on trend
• Manage the pastry section's daily workflow and efficiency
• Control stock of baking ingredients and place orders as needed
• Minimise waste and manage ingredient usage to optimise food costs
• Maintain food safety and hygiene standards at all times
• Ensure correct storage and labelling of all ingredients
• Keep the pastry section and equipment clean and well organised
• Maintain consistency in taste, texture, and presentation across all products
• Present pastries attractively for both display and service
• Coordinate closely with the wider kitchen team on food preparation
• Train and mentor junior pastry staff, guiding technique and decoration methods
• Adapt recipes for dietary restrictions where required
• Stay current with industry trends and bring new flavours and techniques into the offering

Core Criteria:

• Proven experience in a pastry chef, baker, or similar senior role
• At least 3 years' experience in a senior pastry position
• Diploma or certification in Culinary Arts advantageous
• Strong knowledge of baking techniques, ingredients, and decorating methods
• Creativity and attention to detail in food presentation
• Ability to work efficiently under pressure and meet deadlines
• Strong organisational and time management skills
• Team player with good communication and leadership ability
• Comfortable adapting recipes for dietary requirements, including gluten free and vegan options
• Genuine passion for baking, with patience and a strong work ethic