Pastry Chef - Boutique Catering

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 240,000 - 420,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Staff discounts

Bonuses

Premium ingredients

Job summary

Placements24 in Stellenbosch is seeking a talented Pastry Chef to craft an exquisite range of pastries, desserts and breads. The role combines hands-on pastry production with remote administrative duties such as menu development and client consultations.

You will lead the pastry section, uphold quality and hygiene, and work closely with the Head Chef on menus for premium catering events, mentoring junior staff and managing costs for a high-end operation.

Qualifications

• Minimum 4 years as Pastry Chef, preferably in catering or fine dining.
• Strong technical skills in patisserie, baking, chocolate work and sugar craft.
• Proven recipe development and menu creation for diverse events.
• Excellent food safety and sanitation knowledge.
• Creative dessert artistry and presentation.
• Able to work under pressure and meet deadlines.
• Good communication and teamwork abilities.
• Inventory management and Cost control experience.

Responsibilities

• Design, prepare, and present pastries, desserts, breads and confections.
• Develop new pastry recipes and menu items for events.
• Manage pastry section inventory, ordering, and ingredients quality.
• Ensure consistent quality and presentation of baked goods.
• Collaborate with Head Chef on menu planning and event execution.
• Maintain hygiene and safety standards in the pastry kitchen.
• Mentor junior pastry staff and promote skill development.
• Control pastry-related costs and manage waste.
• Contribute ideas for dessert styling and event presentation.
• Adapt recipes for large-scale catering while preserving artisanal quality.

Skills

Patisserie

Baking

Chocolate work

Sugar craft

Menu development

Cost control

Teamwork

Food safety

Education

Culinary degree or equivalent

Job description

About the Role

Our client, an artisanal catering company renowned for its exquisite culinary creations in Stellenbosch, Western Cape , is seeking a talented and passionate Pastry Chef. This hybrid role involves hands-on pastry creation with some remote administrative duties related to menu development and client consultations. You will be responsible for crafting innovative and delectable desserts, breads, and other baked goods that complement our client's fine dining catering services. The ideal candidate possesses a refined palate, exceptional technical skills in patisserie, and a creative flair for dessert artistry. This role demands meticulous attention to detail, consistency, and the ability to work efficiently in a demanding kitchen environment. As a key member of the culinary team in Stellenbosch , you will contribute significantly to the unique dining experiences provided to clients, ensuring every sweet offering is a masterpiece.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, prepare, and present a wide range of high-quality pastries, desserts, breads, and confectioneries.
• Develop new and innovative pastry recipes and menu items, aligning with current culinary trends.
• Manage all aspects of the pastry section, including inventory, ordering, and quality control of ingredients.
• Ensure consistent quality and presentation of all baked goods.
• Collaborate with the Head Chef and catering team on menu planning and event execution.
• Maintain impeccable standards of hygiene and safety in the pastry kitchen.
• Train and mentor junior pastry staff, fostering a culture of skill development and teamwork.
• Control pastry-related costs and manage waste effectively.
• Contribute creative ideas for dessert presentation and styling for events.
• Adapt recipes and techniques for large-scale catering demands while maintaining artisanal quality.

Requirements

• A minimum of 4 years of professional experience as a Pastry Chef, preferably in a catering or high-end restaurant setting.
• Strong technical skills in baking, patisserie, chocolate work, and sugar craft.
• Proven ability in recipe development and menu creation for diverse events.
• Excellent understanding of food safety and sanitation practices.
• Creative flair and a passion for dessert artistry and presentation.
• Ability to work efficiently under pressure and meet deadlines.
• Good communication and teamwork skills.
• Experience managing inventory and controlling costs for a pastry section.
• Culinary degree or equivalent professional qualification is highly desirable.
• Flexibility to work varying hours, including weekends, as required for catering events in Stellenbosch .

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, a creative and inspiring work environment in the beautiful setting of Stellenbosch , and opportunities for professional growth. You will have the chance to showcase your unique pastry skills and contribute to memorable culinary experiences. Benefits include staff discounts, potential for bonuses, and the chance to work with premium ingredients.