Pastry Chef

ABOUT US

At Ayu Bakehouse, we're about creating exceptional baked goods and meaningful experiences — for both our guests and our team. Our aim is to bring joy to our community with high-quality pastries, a welcoming atmosphere, and a commitment to sustainability. We’re looking for a passionate and experienced Pastry Chef to help us deliver on these goals.

THE ROLE

As the Pastry Chef at Ayu Bakehouse, you set the tone for creativity, consistency, and craft in our pastry department. You’ll lead a team of 8-10 bakers and pastry cooks across two shifts, overseeing everything from mixing and lamination to cold case production, entremets, and cookies. Your role combines hands-on pastry work with team leadership, recipe development, and operational excellence. You’ll collaborate closely with ownership and other managers to ensure the department runs efficiently, sustainably, and with heart.

MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES

Culinary & Creative Leadership

• Lead recipe development and seasonal menu planning in collaboration with the Head Chef/Owner

• Maintain the highest standards of quality, taste and presentation across all pastry categories

• Ensure consistency and innovation in production through testing, documentation and refinement

Team Management & Development

• Oversee and support the team as a whole, fostering clear communication and mutual respect

• Train and mentor staff on technique, workflow and Ayu’s standards of excellence

• Conduct regular check-ins and performance reviews; identify growth opportunities and skill pathways

• Build a positive, inclusive and accountable kitchen culture

Operational Excellence

• Oversee day-to-day production flow, ensuring timelines, quality checks and cleanliness standards are met

• Manage ingredient sourcing and inventory in coordination with the Kitchen Manager

• Maintain food safety compliance, labeling and storage systems

• Track and manage labor budgets and department schedules efficiently

Sustainability & Efficiency

• Uphold Ayu’s standards for sustainable practices, waste reduction and mindful ingredient use

• Streamline systems and routines for reliability and minimal waste

• Foster a culture of continuous improvement through observation and feedback

QUALIFICATIONS

• Minimum 3–5 years of professional pastry experience, including leadership or supervisory roles

• Strong foundation in laminated doughs, custards, cakes and entremets

• Excellent communication, organization and problem-solving skills

• Comfortable managing multiple priorities and delegating effectively

• Knowledge of food safety standards and experience maintaining compliance

• Capable of standing for an 8-hour shift and lifting 50 lbs

• DOH certification required (company will cover cost if needed)

• Weekend and holiday availability required

PERSONAL TRAITS

• Passionate about pastry craft, mentorship and creative collaboration

• Calm under pressure and proactive in solving problems

• Organized, detail-oriented and motivated by high standards

• Values sustainability, teamwork and community connection

• Thrives in a fast-paced, collaborative environment

If you have a love for great food, great people, and the craft of pastry, we’d love to meet you.