UAE / GCC (Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ras Al Khaimah, KSA, Qatar, Bahrain, Oman)
Position Overview
The Pastry Chef is responsible for preparing and presenting high-quality desserts, pastries, breads, and baked goods in accordance with approved recipes and UAE/GCC hospitality standards. The role ensures consistent quality, attractive presentation, strict compliance with food safety and hygiene regulations, and efficient operation of the pastry section.
Department: Food & Beverage – Kitchen / Pastry
Reports To: Executive Pastry Chef / Sous Chef / Executive Chef
Key Responsibilities
Pastry Production & Presentation
Prepare a variety of pastries, desserts, breads, cakes, chocolates, and baked goods according to standardized recipes.
Ensure consistent taste, texture, portion size, and presentation across all pastry items.
Produce mise-en-place for à la carte service, buffets, banquets, and special events.
Assist in developing new dessert items, seasonal menus, and promotions as directed.
Ensure timely production to meet service and event requirements.
Section Management & Supervision
Manage daily operations of the pastry section.
Supervise, guide, and train Commis Chefs and junior pastry staff.
Allocate duties and ensure smooth workflow during preparation and service.
Support onboarding and skill development within the pastry team.
Food Safety, Hygiene & Compliance
Maintain strict adherence to HACCP, food safety, and sanitation standards.
Ensure proper storage, labeling, FIFO rotation, and temperature control of pastry ingredients.
Keep pastry work areas, equipment, and tools clean and well-maintained.
Comply with UAE/GCC municipality health regulations and internal audit standards.
Report any hygiene, safety, or equipment issues immediately.
Inventory & Cost Control
Monitor stock levels of pastry ingredients and report shortages.
Minimize food waste through proper planning, portioning, and storage.
Assist with inventory counts, requisitions, and cost-control procedures.
Follow approved recipes and portion control to meet food cost targets.
Coordination & Operational Support
Work closely with the kitchen, banquet, and F&B service teams to ensure seamless service.
Coordinate pastry production for weddings, events, high-volume buffets, and special occasions.
Participate in kitchen briefings, meetings, and training sessions.
Perform additional tasks assigned by the Executive Pastry Chef or kitchen management.
Qualifications & Requirements
Qualifications & RequirementsEducation
Culinary or Pastry Arts Diploma / Certificate preferred.
HACCP or Food Safety Certification (mandatory or required upon joining in the UAE/GCC).
Experience
3–5 years of professional pastry experience in hotels, resorts, bakeries, or high-end restaurants.
Experience in hotel or large-scale pastry operations is highly preferred.
Skills & Competencies
Strong knowledge of pastry techniques, baking methods, and dessert presentation.
Experience with doughs, creams, chocolates, and decorative techniques.
Understanding of HACCP and food hygiene regulations.
Ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced environment.
Strong attention to detail, creativity, and consistency.
Good organizational and time-management skills.
Language
Basic to good English communication skills required (additional languages are an advantage).
Personal Attributes
Professional appearance and positive attitude.
Creative, disciplined, and quality-focused.
Team player with the ability to train junior staff.
Flexible to work shifts, weekends, and public holidays.
Work Conditions
Shift-based role including early mornings, evenings, weekends, and public holidays.
Physically demanding work requiring long standing hours and manual pastry preparation.
Typical UAE/GCC Benefits
Competitive tax-free salary (depending on experience and establishment).
Employment visa and medical insurance as per UAE/GCC labour laws.
Meals on duty.
Accommodation and transportation (employer dependent).
Annual leave, return air ticket, and service charge (where applicable).
Career growth opportunities within the pastry and culinary departments.
