What are the responsibilities and job description for the Pastry Cook position at 53 by the Sea?
Overview
Join Our Fine Dining Team in an Exciting New Chapter
Our restaurant entered a new chapter with the arrival of our new Executive Chef, as we refresh our culinary vision and elevate the dining experience our guests have come to expect on the Kaka'ako oceanfront.
We are currently seeking a passionate Pastry Cook to become part of our Back of House (BOH) team. From plated desserts to custom wedding cakes, you will play an essential role in bringing our pastry program to life, working side by side with the chef and a team that takes pride in every plate. We welcome talented cooks at all experience levels, and experienced pastry professionals who want to help shape the new menu are especially encouraged to apply.
Position Summary
The Pastry Cook supports our Back of House (BOH) team in the preparation and execution of all pastry items for the restaurant, weddings, and special events, to the standard of a fine dining restaurant. Working closely with the Executive Chef and Sous Chefs, you will create everything from plated desserts to wedding cakes with precision and care.
This position is open to pastry professionals at all experience levels. Your title (Pastry Cook I, II, or III) and compensation will be based on your experience and skills. Experienced candidates may also take on additional responsibilities, such as menu development, inventory and ordering, and training new team members.
Duties
- Prepare pastry and dessert items for the restaurant, weddings, and events, following recipes, portion controls, and presentation specifications
- Produce wedding cakes, including baking, filling, assembling, and decorating, to the couple's design and our quality standards
- Plate with precision and ensure timely preparation to fine dining standards
- Maintain full knowledge of all menu items and pastry stations
- Work with the Front of House (FOH) team to complete orders accurately and on time, and communicate updates such as order counts and operational changes
- Inspect pastry items before they leave the kitchen to make sure they meet restaurant standards
- Set up, stock, and break down workstations; follow opening and closing procedures
- Prepare and store ingredients properly
- Keep stations and tools clean and well maintained; assist with equipment maintenance
- Follow all health code standards, kitchen policies, and service standards
- Update BOH management on inventory needs
- Support other stations as needed
Additional responsibilities for experienced candidates (Pastry Cook I):
- Assist with pre-service lead duties and lead pastry staff as needed
- Help develop and launch new menu items, including wedding cake designs and flavors, in collaboration with the chef
- Assist with inventory management and ordering
- Support training of new pastry cooks
Skills and Qualifications
Required (all levels):
- High school diploma or GED
- Strong team player with a passion to learn and grow
- Strong communication and collaboration skills
- Ability to stand for long periods and lift up to 50 lbs
- TB clearance required to work in the restaurant
Preferred (Pastry Cook II and above):
- 2 years of relevant pastry experience in a restaurant, hotel, or bakery
- Solid pastry skills and techniques, and knowledge of current culinary trends
- Experience with cake production and decorating (e.g., buttercream, fondant, piping)
- Ability to work efficiently with little to no supervision in a high-volume restaurant and banquet kitchen
- Skill in operating commercial kitchen equipment
- Knowledge of food safety practices
- ServSafe certification (preferred, not required)
Preferred (Pastry Cook I / senior level):
- 5 years of relevant experience, including supervisory experience
- Experience designing and producing custom wedding cakes
- Knowledge of menu development, food costs, and labor control
- Strong organizational, planning, and time management skills
- Proper knife skills and techniques
- Culinary school certificate or degree (preferred, not required)
Pay: $18.00 - $27.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Employee discount
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
Salary : $18 - $27