Pastry Sous Chef

SUMMARY:
Job Purpose
The Pastry Chef is responsible for creating, producing, and presenting high-quality pastry, baked goods, and desserts for all lodge dining experiences, including restaurants, banquets, and private dining. The role ensures consistent quality, creativity, and presentation while maintaining hygiene, food safety, and operational standards in line with a five-star lodge environment
Duties and Responsibilities
Culinary & Production Responsibilities
·         Prepare, bake, and present all pastries, breads, desserts, and confectionery items according to five-star lodge standards.
·         Ensure all desserts and baked goods meet the highest quality in taste, texture, and presentation.
·         Develop new dessert concepts, seasonal menus, and specialty offerings in collaboration with the Executive Chef.
·         Maintain consistency, portion control, and adherence to recipes and plating standards.
·         Prepare items for breakfast, lunch, dinner, banquets, and special events.
Kitchen Operations & Staff Support
·         Supervise and coordinate pastry and baking staff during preparation and service.
·         Assist in training, mentoring, and developing junior pastry staff.
·         Ensure adherence to hygiene, food handling, and safety standards in the pastry section.
·         Maintain cleanliness, organization, and proper storage of ingredients and equipment.
Guest Experience
·         Ensure that all desserts and baked goods enhance the lodge’s guest experience.
·         Interact with guests when appropriate to receive feedback on desserts and pastries.
·         Collaborate with the culinary team to create unique offerings that reflect the lodge’s luxury brand.
Inventory & Financial Responsibilities
·         Monitor stock levels, inventory, and wastage within the pastry department.
·         Support food cost control by efficient use of ingredients and minimizing waste.
·         Assist in ordering and sourcing high-quality ingredients for pastry and bakery production.
Health, Safety & Environmental Responsibilities
·         Ensure compliance with South African health, hygiene, and safety standards.
·         Follow lodge policies regarding food safety, sanitation, and proper equipment usage.
·         Promote environmentally responsible practices, including waste reduction and energy conservation.
Core Competencies
·         Pastry & Baking Expertise: Skilled in producing high-quality pastries, breads, and desserts.
·         Creativity & Innovation: Ability to design visually appealing and innovative pastry items.
·         Attention to Detail: Ensure consistency, portion control, and presentation standards.
·         Teamwork: Ability to work collaboratively with culinary staff and management.
·         Guest Focus: Awareness of guest expectations and commitment to a luxury dining experience.
·         Time Management & Organization: Manage multiple tasks and deadlines efficiently.
·         Health, Safety & Hygiene Awareness: Knowledge of food safety, hygiene standards, and sustainable practices.

POSITION INFO:
Working Environment
·         Luxury Big 5 safari lodge environment with international guests and private safari experiences.
·         Dynamic, high-pressure, and fast-paced luxury hospitality environment.
·         Exposure to high-end culinary operations and opportunities for professional development.
·         Requires flexibility to work long hours, weekends, and public holidays.