What are the responsibilities and job description for the Pastry Chef position at Artisan Cakery?
Job Description: Experienced Pastry Chef
Location: The Artisan Cakery, Knoxville TN
Employment Type: Full-Time
Salary: Competitive, based on experience
Overview:
We are seeking a highly skilled and creative Pastry Chef with over five years of hands-on baking experience and at least five years of proven leadership in managing a pastry shop. The ideal candidate will excel in crafting exceptional pastries, desserts, and baked goods while overseeing all aspects of pastry shop operations, including inventory management, staffing, productivity, and profitability. This role requires a blend of culinary artistry, business acumen, and leadership to elevate our pastry offerings and drive operational success.
Key Responsibilities:
Culinary Expertise:
- Create, prepare, and present high-quality pastries, desserts, breads, and confections with consistent excellence.
- Develop innovative and seasonal menus that align with the our vision and customer preferences.
- Ensure all baked goods meet strict quality, presentation, and food safety standards.
- Stay updated on industry trends and incorporate modern techniques and flavors into offerings.
Operational Management:
- Oversee daily operations of the pastry shop, ensuring smooth and efficient workflows.
- Manage inventory, including sourcing high-quality ingredients, monitoring stock levels, and minimizing waste.
- Develop and implement cost-effective strategies to maximize profitability without compromising quality.
- Maintain compliance with health, safety, and sanitation regulations.
Team Leadership:
- Recruit, train, and supervise pastry shop staff, fostering a collaborative and productive team environment.
- Schedule staff to optimize productivity and meet demand while controlling labor costs.
- Mentor junior bakers and pastry assistants, promoting skill development and high performance.
Financial Accountability:
- Monitor and manage budgets, including ingredient costs, labor, and overhead expenses.
- Analyze sales data and adjust production to meet demand and profitability goals.
- Collaborate with management to set pricing strategies that balance quality and revenue.
Customer Engagement:
- Ensure exceptional customer satisfaction through consistent product quality and presentation.
- Collaborate with front-of-house staff to address customer feedback and special requests.
- Contribute to marketing efforts, such as promoting seasonal specials or limited-edition items.
Qualifications:
- Minimum of 5 years of professional baking experience in a high-volume kitchen or pastry shop.
- At least 5 years of experience managing a pastry shop or similar operation, with a proven track record in:
- Inventory management and cost control.
- Staff supervision and scheduling.
- Driving productivity and profitability.
- Culinary or pastry arts degree/certificate preferred, or equivalent professional training.
- Strong knowledge of baking techniques, flavor profiles, and presentation standards.
- Exceptional organizational and leadership skills with the ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to lead a team and engage with customers.
- Flexibility to work early mornings, weekends, and holidays as needed.
Benefits:
- Employee Discounts, Professional Development Opportunities
- Opportunity to showcase creativity in a dynamic, supportive environment.
- Collaborative and inclusive workplace culture.
How to Apply:
Please submit your resume, a cover letter detailing your relevant experience, to the artisancakery@gmail.com. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.
The Artisan Cakery is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.