Executive Pastry Chef

Join Our Team as an Executive Pastry Chef at Gerhard's Elegant European Desserts!

Are you a top notch professional who is quality minded, a self starter, ambitious, detail oriented and able to manage a team? As a leader in the pastry/bakery industry for 32 years, Gerhard's Elegant European Desserts is seeking an Executive Pastry Chef to lead our culinary team. We would require a minimum of 8 years of experience, proven track record of consistant quality productioin and ultimate care for what you produce. Join us in beautiful Lake Forest, IL and be a part of a team that is passionate about creating bakery items and pastries.

Our 5 day work week is Tuesday - Saturday, 7 am - 4 pm. We open some Mondays when the holidays require.

Daily Responsibilities:

• Oversee the entire bakery and pastry operations daily
• Develop and execute holiday menus
• Create and bake a variety of bakery items--breads, croissants, danish, cookies, tarts etc 
• Create individual pastry, specialty cakes, wedding cakes
• Ensure impeccable quality
• Manage food quality and consistency
• Create seasonal menus that highlight fresh ingredients

Required Skills:

• Degree in Culinary Arts
• Menu Planning
• Plate Presentation
• Bread Baking
• Food Quality

Nice to Have Skills:

• Knife Skills
• Wedding Cakes
• Fondant
• Food Cost Management
• Scratch Cooking

Technical Skills:

• work with chocolate

Salary and Benefits: Competitive salary range of $50,000 - $65,000 annually, plus benefits including 401(k), vacation leave, and holiday pay.

Gerhard's Elegant European Desserts has been a staple in the Lake Forest community for over 32 years, known for our commitment to quality and excellence. Our team is dedicated to creating memorable experiences for our customers through delicious desserts and exceptional service. Join us and be a part of a company that values creativity, teamwork, and passion for culinary arts.

DEI Statement:

Gerhard's Elegant European Desserts is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where all employees feel valued and respected.

EEO Statement:

Gerhard's Elegant European Desserts provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or genetics.