About Company
Kardash Bakery has been a beloved institution in Windsor, Ontario, for decades, renowned for its commitment to traditional recipes, fresh ingredients, and exceptional baked goods. As a cornerstone of the community, we pride ourselves on crafting a wide array of delicious pastries, breads, cakes, and specialty items that bring joy to our customers daily. Our philosophy centers around quality, authenticity, and a passion for baking that is evident in every product we create. We are a family-owned business that values tradition while embracing innovation, constantly striving to delight our patrons with both classic favourites and exciting new creations. Join our dedicated team and contribute to a legacy of culinary excellence.
Job Description
We are seeking an exceptionally talented and passionate Pastry Chef to join our esteemed team at Kardash Bakery on an urgent basis. This is a fantastic opportunity for a creative and skilled individual to lead our pastry section, bringing fresh ideas and impeccable execution to our diverse range of desserts and baked goods. As our Pastry Chef, you will be instrumental in maintaining our high standards of quality and taste, while also having the artistic freedom to innovate and expand our product offerings. You will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of pastry production, from concept development and recipe creation to preparation, presentation, and inventory management. We are looking for someone who thrives in a fast-paced environment, possesses a meticulous eye for detail, and has a deep understanding of flavour profiles and baking techniques. If you are a culinary artist with a commitment to excellence and a desire to make a significant impact in a cherished local bakery, we encourage you to apply immediately. Your expertise will be crucial in delighting our loyal customers and attracting new ones with your delicious creations.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and create new and innovative pastry, dessert, and baked good recipes, incorporating seasonal ingredients and culinary trends.
- Oversee the daily production of all pastries, cakes, breads, cookies, and specialty desserts, ensuring consistency and adherence to quality standards.
- Manage and train junior pastry staff and kitchen assistants, fostering a collaborative and high-performing team environment.
- Maintain strict control over inventory, ordering ingredients, managing waste, and ensuring cost-effectiveness without compromising quality.
- Ensure all food preparation and storage areas meet the highest standards of hygiene and food safety regulations (HACCP, local health codes).
- Monitor portion control, production levels, and presentation of all items.
- Collaborate with the management team on menu planning, special events, and custom orders.
- Operate and maintain all pastry kitchen equipment safely and efficiently.
- Conduct quality checks on all incoming ingredients and finished products.
Required Skills
- Minimum of 2-3 years of proven experience as a Pastry Chef or a similar role in a bakery or restaurant setting.
- Formal culinary training or a degree/diploma in Pastry Arts from a recognized institution.
- Exceptional creativity and artistic flair in dessert presentation and flavour combination.
- Strong knowledge of classical and contemporary pastry techniques, ingredients, and equipment.
- Demonstrated ability to manage a busy kitchen environment and prioritize tasks effectively.
- Excellent understanding of food safety, sanitation, and hygiene regulations.
- Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Flexibility to work early mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays as required.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with artisanal bread making and sourdough techniques.
- Previous experience in menu development and costing.
- Certification in food safety management (e.g., Food Handler's Certificate).
- Experience supervising or mentoring a small team.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive salary and opportunities for performance-based bonuses.
- Employee discounts on all bakery products.
- A creative and supportive work environment where your ideas are valued.
- Opportunity to work with high-quality ingredients and modern equipment.
- Be part of a well-respected and community-loved local establishment.
- Opportunities for professional development and skill enhancement.
How to Apply
If you are a passionate and skilled Pastry Chef ready to make a significant contribution to a cherished Windsor institution, we invite you to apply. Please click on the link below to submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and culinary philosophy. We look forward to reviewing your application and potentially welcoming you to the Kardash Bakery family!