Lead Pastry Chef / Bakery Operations Manager

Elaichi Co. is a unique establishment that takes pride in celebrating South Asian heritage through warm hospitality and exceptional chai. As a hospitality-driven company, elaichi co. has crafted an inviting environment where each visitor is welcomed as an honored guest or mehmaan. Rooted in culture and community, elaichi co. combines traditional flavors with modern cafe experiences, bringing a taste of South Asian warmth and comfort to its clientele. Operating in a vibrant and growing market, elaichi co. is committed to offering high-quality beverages and food products infused with distinctive regional spices and authenticity.

The role currently available at elaichi co. is for a Lead Pastry Chef to join their cozy commissary bakery located in Emeryville. This commissary bakery forms the heart of the company’s operations, supplying not only their retail cafes but also their wholesale partners with thoughtfully crafted, delightful pastries. The Lead Pastry Chef will take full ownership of the bakery operations, leading a small but ambitious team working toward excellence in the pastry program. The role involves creating innovative recipes inspired by Desi flavors, ensuring smooth daily production, mentoring and nurturing the baking team, and scaling the bakery’s offerings as the company grows. The position demands a highly creative and detail-oriented individual passionate about pastry and dedicated to building a cohesive and motivated team.

This is an exciting opportunity for a baking professional who wants to shape and elevate a growing bakery operation within a hospitality brand deeply connected to cultural expression. The Lead Pastry Chef will have the chance to inspire the bakery with their unique artistic vision while also balancing operational efficiency and high standards of quality and presentation. The candidate can expect a collaborative environment where their culinary ideas are welcomed and valued. As a leader, you will foster open communication through regular one-on-ones, focus on thoughtful hiring, provide thorough training, and support your team’s well-being and growth.

Additionally, the role encompasses comprehensive oversight of daily commissary operations including scheduling, inventory management, and cost control. Strong emphasis is placed on maintaining FIFO inventory practices and forging lasting relationships with spice suppliers essential to maintaining the company’s unique flavor profile. The Lead Pastry Chef will continuously analyze sales trends, manage waste, and ensure profitability targets are met. Safety and quality protocols are strictly upheld to deliver exceptional pastries that enhance the ellaichi brand’s reputation and customer experience.

In return for your expertise and leadership, elaichi co. offers competitive hourly pay ranging from $28 to $36 depending on experience, along with benefits designed to support well-being and work-life balance. These include a company-sponsored 401(k) plan with matching contributions, paid time off, paid sick leave, employee discounts, and a flexible schedule to accommodate personal and professional needs. If you are passionate about pastry, inspired by the aroma of cardamom and South Asian flavors, and eager to make a meaningful impact in a growing, culturally-rich company, elaichi co. welcomes your application and the opportunity to meet you.