Junior Pastry Chef

About the role

The Junior Pastry Chef – R&D serves as the primary point person for all pastry research and development activities. The role works closely with the Pastry Consultant in developing, testing, refining, and standardizing pastry products. Responsible for coordinating R&D trials, documenting recipes and results, maintaining product standards, and ensuring proper communication and execution of approved pastry developments across relevant teams.

Key responsibilities

• Serve as the main point person for Pastry R&D and coordinate all pastry-related development activities.
• Work closely with the Pastry Consultant during product development, recipe trials, testing, and refinement.
• Prepare ingredients, equipment, test batches, and other requirements for R&D sessions.
• Execute and replicate recipes and techniques provided or developed with the consultant.
• Document all recipes, measurements, procedures, yields, adjustments, and trial results accurately.
• Maintain and update standardized pastry recipes, recipe cards, product specifications, and preparation procedures.
• Coordinate product trials and revisions based on feedback from the consultant and management.
• Monitor product consistency, taste, texture, appearance, portion, and overall quality during testing.
• Assist in product costing, yield testing, and ingredient utilization for new and existing pastry products.
• Coordinate with Purchasing, Commissary, Operations, and other concerned teams regarding ingredients, equipment, production requirements, and product implementation.
• Ensure that approved recipes and product specifications are properly communicated and endorsed for implementation.
• Maintain an organized file of all pastry R&D documents, recipes, test results, costing, and product photos.
• Identify opportunities to improve existing pastry products in terms of quality, consistency, presentation, and cost.
• Stay updated on pastry trends, techniques, ingredients, and potential product innovations.
• Ensure proper sanitation, food safety, and cleanliness throughout all R&D activities.
• Provide regular updates to management regarding ongoing R&D projects, trial results, pending revisions, and completed products.

What we're looking for

• Graduate of Culinary Arts, Baking & Pastry Arts, or a related course.
• At least 1–2 years of pastry/baking experience; R&D experience is an advantage.
• Strong foundation in baking and pastry techniques.
• Experience working with recipes, measurements, product testing, and standardization.
• Basic knowledge of recipe costing, yield, portioning, and ingredient utilization.
• Highly organized and detail-oriented, particularly in documentation and recipe accuracy.
• Able to work independently and take ownership of assigned R&D activities.
• Good communication and coordination skills, especially when working with consultants and different departments.
• Willing to learn and work closely under the guidance of a Pastry Consultant.
• Creative, resourceful, and open to experimentation and product development.
• Able to maintain confidentiality of company recipes, formulations, and R&D information.

What we offer

At Lola Cafe, we are committed to creating a supportive and rewarding workplace for our team members. We offer competitive compensation packages commensurate with experience and qualifications. Our team members enjoy access to staff discounts on our menu, opportunities for professional development and training to enhance your pastry skills, and a positive work environment where creativity and excellence are valued. We believe in work-life balance and provide schedules that, whilst requiring some early starts and weekend work, are structured fairly to ensure adequate rest and time off. We foster a culture of continuous learning, encouraging our team to attend workshops, masterclasses, and industry events to stay updated with the latest pastry trends and techniques. Additionally, we provide a supportive team atmosphere where mentorship from experienced pastry chefs helps junior members grow their careers within our organisation.

Apply now

If you are a passionate pastry enthusiast ready to launch or advance your career in baking, we would love to hear from you. Please submit your CV, a cover letter highlighting your pastry experience and why you are interested in joining Lola Cafe, and any relevant certifications or portfolio samples if available. Join our team and be part of creating moments of deliciousness for our customers every day.