About Company
Imagine a culinary canvas where your passion for patisserie can truly flourish. At Career.zycto, we believe in crafting more than just meals; we create memorable experiences. We are a dynamic and forward-thinking organization dedicated to excellence in the hospitality sector, committed to nurturing talent and fostering a collaborative, inspiring work environment. Join a team where your innovative dessert concepts are celebrated, and your skills in cake artistry are honed. Here, every creation tells a story, and we provide the ingredients for your career to rise.
Job Description
Are you a culinary artist with a passion for transforming simple ingredients into edible masterpieces? Career.zycto is seeking an exceptionally talented and innovative Pastry Chef specializing in Cakes & Desserts to join our dynamic culinary team in Eastleigh, Nairobi. This is an incredible opportunity for a creative individual who thrives on pushing boundaries in patisserie, bringing joy through delightful flavors and stunning presentations.
As our dedicated Pastry Chef, you will be the architect of our dessert menu, responsible for conceiving, developing, and executing a diverse range of cakes, pastries, tarts, cookies, and plated desserts. Your role will involve everything from the meticulous preparation of doughs, batters, and fillings to the intricate decoration that makes each item a work of art. We are looking for someone who can consistently deliver high-quality products, ensuring every bite is a memorable experience for our guests. You will be instrumental in creating an unforgettable dining experience, delighting our customers with your innovative and perfectly crafted sweet treats.
You will play a pivotal role in maintaining our high standards of food safety, hygiene, and presentation. Beyond the kitchen, your responsibilities will extend to meticulous inventory management, where you will skillfully manage ingredient stocks, minimize waste, and collaborate with suppliers to source the finest, freshest produce. Continuous innovation is key; you will be encouraged to experiment with new recipes, adapt to seasonal ingredients, and introduce exciting culinary trends to our offerings, keeping our dessert menu fresh and appealing. Furthermore, you will mentor junior pastry assistants, sharing your expertise, nurturing their talents, and fostering a collaborative learning environment that promotes growth and excellence within the team.
Your keen eye for detail, coupled with your exceptional organizational prowess, will ensure the pastry section runs smoothly and efficiently, from daily preparation to special event execution. You will maintain a pristine and organized workspace, adhering strictly to health and safety regulations. This position demands not only exceptional technical skills and a deep understanding of pastry fundamentals but also a creative spirit, strong leadership capabilities, and an unwavering commitment to culinary excellence. If you are passionate about crafting extraordinary desserts and ready to leave your sweet mark on Eastleigh’s culinary scene, we encourage you to apply and become a key ingredient in our success story.
Key Responsibilities
- Design, develop, and execute a wide range of innovative cakes, pastries, tarts, and plated desserts.
- Prepare and bake various sweet items, ensuring consistency in taste, texture, and appearance.
- Master the art of decoration, applying artistic flair and precision to all pastry creations.
- Maintain strict adherence to food safety, hygiene, and sanitation standards in the pastry kitchen.
- Manage inventory of pastry ingredients, place orders, and minimize waste effectively.
- Research and develop new recipes and presentation techniques to update and enhance the dessert menu.
- Train, mentor, and supervise junior pastry staff, fostering a positive and productive team environment.
- Monitor and control portion sizes and product costs to ensure profitability.
- Collaborate with the head chef and other kitchen staff to coordinate dessert service with meal courses.
- Ensure all equipment is properly maintained and cleaned.
Required Skills
- Proven experience (minimum 3 years) as a Pastry Chef, Baker, or similar role.
- Exceptional creativity and artistic ability in cake decoration and dessert presentation.
- Comprehensive knowledge of baking techniques, pastry fundamentals, and different dessert categories.
- Ability to work efficiently, meticulously, and calmly in a fast-paced kitchen environment.
- Thorough understanding of HACCP and other food safety and hygiene regulations.
- Strong organizational, time management, and multitasking skills.
- A keen eye for detail and an unwavering passion for perfection in every creation.
Preferred Qualifications
- Diploma or degree in Culinary Arts, Pastry Arts, or a related field from a recognized institution.
- Experience with international dessert cuisines and advanced pastry techniques (e.g., chocolate tempering, sugar artistry).
- Leadership or supervisory experience within a professional kitchen setting.
- Portfolio showcasing previous pastry and cake creations.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive salary and performance-based incentives.
- Opportunities for continuous professional development and training workshops.
- Creative freedom to experiment with new recipes and contribute to menu innovation.
- A vibrant, supportive, and collaborative team environment.
- Complimentary staff meals during shifts.
- Comprehensive health insurance package.
- Generous paid time off and holiday benefits.
How to Apply
Ready to sweeten your career path? If you possess the passion, skill, and creativity to excel in this role, we invite you to apply. Please click on the application link below to submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and portfolio (if applicable). We look forward to reviewing your application and discovering your unique culinary artistry.
