Pastry Cook

Pastry Cook – Concept/PropertyNameConcept/PropertyNameReports To: Pastry Chef / Executive Pastry Chef / Chef de CuisineDepartment: Back of House – PastryEmployment Type: Hourly, Non-ExemptAbout José Andrés GroupJosé Andrés Group (JAG) is a hospitality company led by Chef José Andrés, known for outstanding guest experiences, innovation, and a values-driven culture. Our teams bring world-class food and warm hospitality to life across acclaimed concepts worldwide.Position SummaryPastry Cooks execute precise mise en place and production for all pastry items—ensuring quality, consistency, and timing that meet JAG standards. You'll scale recipes, assemble and finish desserts, support service plating, and uphold rigorous food safety, labeling, and organization. This role thrives on accuracy, pace, and craftsmanship.Key ResponsibilitiesMise en Place & ProductionExecute daily prep lists to spec: cakes, tarts, custards, mousses, curds, crémeux, pâte à choux, laminated doughs, cookies, sablés, glazes, and sauces.Scale recipes accurately (metric & imperial), temper chocolate, prepare ganache/praliné, and finish items to standard.Operate proofing, baking, and chilling schedules to hit pars for service, banquets, and retail/pastry case.Finishing, Plating & Service SupportPortion and finish desserts with consistent textures and presentation; maintain garnish standards.Set up pastry station for service; coordinate with expo to protect ticket times and product integrity.Execute preset/event desserts and PDR/BEO specifications with accuracy.Quality & ConsistencyTaste and calibrate products for balance, texture, and bake; log adjustments per SOP.Follow standardized recipes, weights/temps, and portioning; flag spec variances immediately.Participate in tastings; provide constructive feedback and apply coaching in real time.Food Safety, Sanitation & ComplianceAdhere to DOH/HACCP: cooling logs, hot/cold holding, allergen and cross-contact protocols, and personal hygiene.Label/date all products; practice FIFO and track hold times/shelf life; maintain temperature records."Clean as you go"; complete opening/closing sidework and scheduled deep cleans.Inventory, Receiving & Waste ControlAssist with receiving: check quantities, temperatures, and quality; store promptly in proper zones.Maintain accurate yields and waste logs; minimize waste through smart batch sizes and storage.Keep walk-ins, freezers, and dry storage organized, labeled, and mapped.Equipment & MaintenanceSafely operate mixers, ovens, sheeters, proofers, dehydrators, blast chillers, chocolate tempering machines, and small tools.Perform basic care (calibrate scales, clean attachments) and escalate repair needs; tag out unsafe equipment.Teamwork & CultureCommunicate clearly with pastry, culinary, and FOH teams; support during peak periods and events.Attend line-ups/trainings; learn new items quickly and share best practices.Model professionalism, punctuality, and a respectful, inclusive, learning-focused mindset.Required Qualifications1+ year of professional pastry/bakery experience in upscale casual, casual-fine, fine dining, or hotel pastry; culinary/pastry program a plus.Strong scaling and baking fundamentals (mixing methods, proofing, tempering chocolate, glazing, finishing).Knowledge of food safety, allergens, and sanitation; valid Food Handler certification (or ability to obtain).Excellent organization, attention to detail, and pace under pressure; clear communication.Schedule flexibility (early mornings, nights, weekends, holidays).Working Conditions & Physical RequirementsStand and move for extended periods (up to 8+ hours); frequent bending, reaching, and repetitive motion.Lift/carry/push/pull up to 35–50 lbs. (bags of flour/sugar, sheet trays, equipment).Frequent exposure to heat, refrigeration, and cleaning chemicals; slip-resistant footwear required.In Return, We Offer YouCompetitive hourly pay with opportunities for cross-training and advancementEligible health & wellness benefits (for qualifying positions)Employee dining and partner discountsGrowth in a values-driven, award-winning hospitality groupEqual Opportunity EmployerJosé Andrés Group is an Equal Opportunity Employer and participates in the federal E-Verify Program.