Pastry Chef

About the role

Pembroke Patisserie is seeking an experienced and passionate Baker or Pastry Chef to join our team in Wanaka, Otago. This is a full-time position that offers you the opportunity to create exquisite pastries, desserts and baked goods in a dynamic and creative environment. You will be instrumental in maintaining our reputation for excellence and innovation, crafting memorable culinary experiences that delight our customers. This role is central to our operations and allows you to contribute to the success of our patisserie.

Key responsibilities

• Assist in the kitchen with pastry & baking duties including preparation, mixing, rolling, laminating, cutting, shaping, and baking of ingredients to produce breads, rolls, biscuits, cakes, pies, pastries, or other baked goods of a high quality and standard.
• Develop and refine recipes to create new and seasonal offerings that reflect current culinary trends
• Manage inventory and order supplies whilst maintaining quality standards and cost efficiency
• Maintain the highest standards of food safety, hygiene, and sanitation in all food preparation areas
• Train and mentor junior kitchen staff on baking techniques and best practices
• Work collaboratively with the front-of-house team to ensure customer satisfaction and product presentation
• Monitor product quality and consistency throughout the production process
• Adhere to production schedules and meet daily targets whilst maintaining exceptional quality

What we're looking for

• You will be proficient in dough lamination, croissant, bread and sourdough
• Formal training or qualification in patisserie, baking, or culinary arts from a recognised institution
• A minimum of 2-3 years' professional experience working as a pastry chef or baker in a commercial kitchen environment
• Demonstrated expertise in French patisserie techniques specialising in viennoiserie, bread-making
• Strong knowledge of ingredients, flavour combinations and food safety regulations
• Excellent time management skills with the ability to work efficiently under pressure and meet production deadlines
• Creative flair and a passion for innovation in pastry and dessert creation
• Attention to detail and commitment to maintaining consistent quality standards
• Ability to work as part of a team whilst also taking initiative and working independently
• Strong communication skills and willingness to mentor and support junior staff
• Physical fitness and stamina for a demanding kitchen environment
• Flexibility to work early mornings, weekends, and during peak seasons

What we offer

Working at Pembroke Patisserie offers you the chance to be part of a vibrant and supportive culinary community in beautiful Wanaka. We are committed to the professional development and wellbeing of our team members. We offer competitive remuneration, a positive and collaborative work culture, and the opportunity to work with premium ingredients and cutting-edge baking equipment. Staff discounts on our patisserie products are available, and we encourage a healthy work-life balance. We support ongoing training and professional development to help you advance your culinary career.

About us

Pembroke Patisserie is an established, award winning artisanal bakery and patisserie located in Wanaka, Otago. We are renowned for our commitment to quality, craftsmanship, and innovation in pastry and baking. Our mission is to create authentic, delicious, and beautifully presented pastries and baked goods that celebrate both traditional French techniques and contemporary flavours. We take pride in sourcing the finest ingredients and maintaining the highest standards of excellence in everything we produce. Our team is passionate about their craft, and we foster a culture of creativity, collaboration, and continuous improvement. We are deeply connected to our local community and take pride in being a beloved destination for pastry enthusiasts and food lovers alike.

Apply now

If you are an experienced pastry chef or baker with a genuine passion for creating exceptional baked goods and are ready to make an impact in a thriving patisserie, we would love to hear from you. Please submit your CV, a genuine cover letter outlining your experience and why you want work with us, plus references from previous employers. Join the Pembroke Patisserie team and help us continue to deliver outstanding pastry experiences to our valued customers in Wanaka.