Pastry Chef - The Markham Hotel

Position Summary:

The Pastry Chef is responsible for planning, preparing, and executing high-quality desserts, pastries, breads, and specialty baked goods in accordance with the establishment's standards. This role requires creativity, precision, and strong leadership skills to ensure consistency, food safety compliance, and an exceptional guest experience. The Pastry Chef oversees pastry operations, manages inventory, controls costs, and leads the pastry team in delivering visually stunning and flavorful products.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Prepare, bake, and present a wide variety of desserts, pastries, cakes, breads, and confections. Develop seasonal and specialty dessert menus in collaboration with Executive Chef and management. Ensure consistency in taste, presentation, and portion control. Maintain high standards of food safety, sanitation, and cleanliness in compliance with local health regulations. Supervise and train pastry cooks and bakery staff. Monitor inventory levels, order supplies, and manage food cost controls. Create custom desserts for special events, banquets, and catering functions. Decorate pastries and cakes with artistic detail and precision. Maintain equipment and ensure proper storage of ingredients. Assist in budgeting, forecasting, and labor management for the pastry department.

Qualifications:

Culinary degree or formal pastry training preferred. 3+ years of pastry or bakery experience (fine dining or upscale establishment preferred). Strong knowledge of baking techniques, chocolate work, sugar work, and dessert plating. Understanding of food safety standards and HACCP principles. Creative mindset with attention to detail. Ability to work in a fast-paced environment. Strong leadership and communication skills. Flexible schedule, including nights, weekends, and holidays.

Physical Requirements:

Ability to stand for extended periods. Ability to lift up to 50 pounds. Manual dexterity for detailed decorating work. Comfortable working in hot kitchen environments.

Work Environment:

Commercial kitchen setting. Fast-paced, team-oriented atmosphere. May involve early morning or overnight shifts depending on production needs.