Chef Instructor, Pastry (Sur La Table)

Sur La Table is a renowned specialty retailer with over 58 stores across the United States and is widely recognized for hosting the largest avocational cooking program in the country. The company offers an exceptional selection of exclusive, premium-quality kitchen and tableware, designed to inspire and elevate the culinary experience. Sur La Table has built its reputation on a passion not only for selling high-end kitchen products but also for fostering culinary education and engagement. Customers are drawn not just by the exclusive merchandise but by the opportunity to learn and grow their cooking skills, making it more than just a retail store but a culinary destination. The company culture centers around creating happiness through cooking and sharing good food, fueled by employees who are motivated to roll up their sleeves and contribute to this mission in various roles, including customer interaction, digital growth, and vital behind-the-scenes support.

The Chef Instructor, Pastry position at Sur La Table is a pivotal role within the store and the culinary community it cultivates. This role is tailored for an in-store expert and passionate advocate of baking and pastry arts, charged with delivering the highest standard of #bestincenter service, Sur La Table's company-wide excellence benchmark. As a Chef Instructor, Pastry, you will share specialized knowledge in a variety of pastry techniques and baking fundamentals through personalized instruction that aligns with the company’s broader goals and educational initiatives. Beyond the instructional component, this position plays a strategic part in inspiring a love of baking among customers, thereby driving sales of related bakeware, mixers, and decorating tools. Prioritizing hands-on pastry classes enriched with engaging culinary instruction, the role challenges you to create memorable and educational experiences that encourage repeat visits and build customer loyalty.

In this comprehensive role, you will be responsible for communicating complex technical concepts and advanced pastry skills in a welcoming and clear manner, ensuring all classes reflect the passion, teaching quality, and high standards Sur La Table is known for. You will maintain continuous learning and expertise by staying up to date on the latest products and trends in baking, actively participating in training, and seeking additional resources independently. With a dual focus on customer experience and business performance, you are expected to drive class revenue goals, boost product sales through strong customer engagement, and uphold store standards that facilitate smooth kitchen operations.

Operating within a dynamic store environment, this role requires you to assist in class setup and breakdown, maintain cleanliness and sanitation, and support inventory and supply management that underpin the store’s overall readiness. Compliance with food safety regulations, local health codes, and all company policies is critical to maintaining a safe, efficient, and trusted environment for customers and staff alike. Furthermore, as a Chef Instructor, Pastry, your physical ability to communicate effectively, stand for extended periods, operate kitchen tools, and manage the physical demands of the role is essential. This position offers flexible scheduling with a commitment of 12 to 16 hours per week, including nights, weekends, and holidays, reflecting the business’s needs and customer demand.

Candidates for this role should possess at least 1-2 years of kitchen operations experience, hold a valid Food Manager Certification, and have exceptional communication, problem-solving, and decision-making skills. While a culinary arts degree is preferred, extensive culinary experience with demonstrated technical proficiency is also highly valued. Sur La Table is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, fostering an environment free from discrimination or harassment. This role offers the opportunity to join a passionate culinary community, drive meaningful customer engagement, and represent a respected leader in culinary retail and education.