College Pastry Chef

Job Title: Pastry Chef (Chef de Partie) - 2 Positions Available
Establishment: University
Salary: £29,039.70 P/A + Plus Paid Overtime
Location: Cambridge
Hours: Full-time, Average 37.5 hours per week

About the Role

We are seeking a passionate and talented Pastry Chef de Partie to join the dynamic and diverse catering team within a prestigious university setting in Cambridge. Reporting directly to the Head Chef, you will be an integral part of a well-structured team, specialising in creating high-quality pastries and desserts for a variety of catering services. These include formal dining events, conferences, receptions, buffets, and daily meals for students and staff.

This role provides a fantastic opportunity to work in an innovative and creative culinary environment where fresh ideas and modern pastry techniques are encouraged. We emphasise the use of high-quality, locally sourced ingredients and take pride in delivering beautifully crafted desserts and baked goods.

Key Responsibilities

• Pastry & Dessert Production: Prepare and craft a wide range of pastries, desserts, breads, and confectionery items with precision and creativity.

• Section Management: Take ownership of the pastry section, ensuring all items are consistently produced to the highest standards.

• Menu Development: Contribute to the creation of new and seasonal dessert menus, incorporating modern trends and dietary considerations.

• Quality Control: Uphold the highest levels of food hygiene, safety, and presentation, ensuring compliance with all relevant health and safety regulations.

• Training & Mentorship: Support the development of junior kitchen staff, providing training in pastry techniques and ensuring best practices are followed.

• Stock & Waste Management: Assist in inventory control, including ordering and stock rotation, to maintain freshness and minimise waste.

About You

We are looking for a skilled Pastry Chef de Partie with a passion for pastry and dessert innovation, eager to contribute to a high-energy and creative kitchen environment.

• Experience: Proven experience in a pastry role within a professional kitchen environment.

• Qualifications: NVQ Level 3 in Professional Cookery (or equivalent) is essential.

• Skills: Strong knowledge of classic and modern pastry techniques, excellent organisational abilities, and attention to detail.

• Creativity: A flair for innovation in pastry and dessert design, with a strong emphasis on presentation and flavour balance.

• Flexibility: Willingness to work a flexible schedule, including weekends and evenings as required by the rota.

Benefits

In addition to a competitive salary, we offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your well-being and career growth:

• Bonus Opportunities: Recruitment & Retention payment.

• Free Parking: Convenient on-site parking, including electric parking options.

• Cycle to Work Scheme: Support for sustainable commuting options.

• Social Events: Regular team-building and social activities to foster a positive work environment.

• Medicash Health Plan: Access to a health plan that includes services from dental care to alternative therapies.

• Free Lunches: Enjoy delicious meals prepared by the kitchen team during your shifts.

• Pension Scheme: The College offers membership in a defined contributory pension scheme, with employer contributions up to 14%.

How to Apply

If you are a dedicated Pastry Chef looking for an exciting opportunity to showcase your skills in a supportive and rewarding environment, we would love to hear from you. Apply today to become part of a team that values creativity, quality, and collaboration.

Pineapple Recruitment is recruiting for this role on behalf of our client and is acting as a Recruitment Agency in relation to this vacancy.