Pastry Chef
Essex, VT Bake Shop
Description

Unlock your potential at The Essex Resort & Spa! 

Join us on a journey where passion meets profession in the heart of Vermont's scenic countryside. We redefine hospitality excellence, offering more than just a job—it's an opportunity to join a dynamic team committed to crafting unforgettable experiences.

Whether you're an experienced expert or an aspiring talent, our diverse career opportunities promise growth, fulfillment, and the chance to make a meaningful impact. From culinary maestros to hospitality enthusiasts, administrative aces to creative minds, there's a place for every skill set and aspiration within our family.

Join us in creating magical moments for our guests, where every smile, every detail, and every interaction embodies the essence of true hospitality. At The Essex Resort & Spa, success knows no bounds. Dare to dream, dare to achieve, and let your career flourish in an environment where excellence is not just a goal, but a way of life.


At The Essex, culinary innovation thrives amidst the breathtaking beauty of Vermont's Champlain Valley. Join our team and immerse yourself in a culture of culinary excellence, where creativity, passion, and locally sourced ingredients converge to craft unforgettable dining experiences. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a budding talent, The Essex offers a dynamic environment where you can hone your skills and contribute to the artistry of our diverse culinary offerings.


BASIC FUNCTION:

The Pastry Chef is responsible for overall production of all baked goods in the Pastry Kitchen. Productions include: Dessert items for two restaurants, a display case, outside orders, inside banquet events, wedding cakes and more. With focus on quality and production levels, the Pastry Chef will lead the culinary team on their mission to exceed customers' expectations related to food quality and dining experience. Must keep a solid commitment for guests, staff and professional needs.


ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

  • Supervise and participate in the preparation and execution of all baked goods.
  • Proper communication between all staff, including our own and other departments.
  • Keep an open communication with both subordinates and superiors.
  • Responsible for maintaining adequate training programs for kitchen personnel.
  • Inspect the portion sizes and taste qualities of all items to ensure they are being properly prepared.
  • Inspect all equipment for proper maintenance and report deficiencies to Engineering.
  • Ensure that an adequate supply of equipment is available.
  • Talking to guests for orders or other requests.
  • Make profit improvement recommendations to the Executive Chef
  • Consulting with brides/grooms with wedding cake orders
  • Monitor incoming food products to ensure proper quality and assist storeroom personnel in quality control.
  • Maintain a high level of sanitation and safety.
  • Monitor all refrigeration and dry storage for proper handling and rotation.
  • Plan and develop new dessert menus for restaurants, banquets and special functions, i.e. weddings.
  • Coach and teach all staff members as a continuing process to ensure a smooth operation and maintain a high level standard in the Pastry Kitchen.


QUALIFICATIONS: EDUCATION, KNOWLEDGE, TRAINING & WORK EXPERIENCE:

  • Able to work flexible hours and days.
  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Five years baking experience and graduate from a culinary school.
  • Five years culinary experience in a multi unit hotel or conference center.
  • 2+ years of Advanced Cake Decorating
  • Well versed skills in plated desserts, display pastries, breads, artisan goods, etc.
  • Knowledge of food safety, sanitation, food products, and food service equipment
  • Knowledge of all facets of a Baking Department: ordering, menu planning, menu costing, etc.
  • Previous experience supervising a staff of 5 or more employees.
  • Ability to communicate effectively.

MARGINAL FUNCTIONS:

  • Respond to any reasonable task assigned.
  • Being available for teaching baking classes when required.
  • Attend meetings as needed, i.e. department head, pre-con, etc.
  • Assist in other areas of the kitchens as needed.
  • Remain alert, courteous and helpful to the guests at all times.
  • Perform other related duties as requested by the Executive Chef.
  • Being an intermediary when Executive/Executive Sous Chefs aren’t present.

Benefits:

At The Essex, we believe in investing in our team members' wellbeing and growth, offering a comprehensive benefits package designed to support both personal and professional development. From competitive compensation and healthcare options to opportunities for career advancement and ongoing training, we strive to provide a fulfilling work environment where every employee feels valued and empowered. Join us at The Essex and embark on a rewarding journey where your contributions are recognized and rewarded, and where you can thrive both professionally and personally.

Employees classified as full time year round are entitled to participate in the following benefits after they have met the eligibility requirements:

  • Medical Insurance (with Employer contribution)
  • Dental Insurance (with Employer contribution)
  • Vision Insurance
  • Life & Disability Insurance (Employer paid)
  • Voluntary Life & Disability Insurance – for employee, spouse/domestic partner and child(ren) (supplemental – paid by employee)
  • Medical Care Flexible Spending Account
  • Dependent Care Account (for Daycare, elderly care or other dependent care)
  • Short and Long Term Disability Insurances
  • Accident Insurance
  • Critical Illness Insurance for employee and spouse/domestic partner
  • Paid Time Off
  • Bereavement Time

All employees at least 18 years of age or older, regardless of status, are eligible to participate in our 401(k) plan with Employer match after 3 months of employment.


Property Benefits:

 Employees of The Essex Resort & Spa can take advantage of the many benefits our property provides.


On Property Discounts:

  • Restaurant
  • Spa (on treatments and products)
  • Cook Academy

Other Discounts:

  • Memberships to The Edge Sports & Fitness
  • Stays at the hotel for employee, friends and/or family
  • Movie tickets to Essex Cinemas
  • Essex Experience (varies by business)
  • Stays at other New England Inns & Resorts as part of the NEIRA program
  • Ski passes to Smuggler’s Notch & Sugarbush/IKON

Other Benefits:

  • Complimentary use of the on-site fitness center
  • Complimentary use of the on-site Tennis courts
  • Free Stay at the Resort (once per year for Employee & a guest) with Breakfast included (must be at least 18 years of age)