Pastry Cook II

Waterbury, CT, USA|Onsite

Job Overview

Employment Type

Full-time

Work Schedule

Weekend Shifts

Benefits

Health Insurance

Dental Insurance

Paid Time Off

Retirement Plan

Employee Discounts

wellness programs

Career Development

Job Description

Hard Rock is a globally recognized hospitality brand known for its vibrant lifestyle hotels and premium dining experiences. The company is dedicated to creating memorable experiences for guests while promoting a culture of teamwork, respect, and excellence among its employees. Hard Rock emphasizes the health and well-being of its team members and their families by offering a comprehensive benefits package that supports a healthy work-life balance and future planning. Their career site provides detailed information about the full range of benefits available to employees who contribute to the brand's success.

The Pastry Cook at Hard Rock plays a critical role in delivering high-quality desserts across various venues including RT 60, NYY, Sessions, Rock Shop, Banquets, and In-Room Dining. This position requires a skilled and passionate individual who is committed to consistency, quality, and presentation of all desserts in alignment with Hard Rock's approved concepts, which also include regionally inspired dessert offerings. The Pastry Cook not only focuses on food preparation but also ensures that the kitchen environment is clean, organized, and operates harmoniously under strict adherence to local and federal food safety and sanitation regulations. The role involves operating standard kitchen equipment, setting up stations, managing inventory according to production schedules, maintaining cleanliness, and fostering positive communication within the team.

The Pastry Cook is expected to be proactive in their responsibilities, taking initiative to assist other departments, promote property outlets, and support a positive guest experience. They participate in meetings to stay informed about global programs, new products, procedures, and special events that affect the culinary service. The position requires adhering to Hard Rock's mission, values, and culture, while also acting ethically to protect the brand and utilizing sustainability programs designed to help save the planet. This role contributes to operational efficiency and helps maintain the company's standard of Amplified Service with a commitment to professionalism and confidentiality. The Pastry Cook typically works evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed, playing a vital part in Hard Rock's dynamic team and guest-centric environment.

Job Requirements

Secondary school degree preferred
Minimum of 2 years work experience in service
Ability to communicate in basic written and spoken language
Skilled in preparing and decorating a variety of pastry products
Ability to understand and follow instructions
Competent with basic mathematical calculations
Ability to interact effectively with customers and team members
Fluency in English required, additional languages a plus
Physical ability to stand, walk, kneel, and bend for extended periods
Manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination
Ability to lift, push, pull, and carry up to 50 pounds
Willingness to tolerate exposure to heat, cold, chemicals, and noisy environments
Understanding of lifestyle hotels and premium dining products and services
Must meet legal requirements for any required licensing
Availability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed

Job Qualifications

Secondary school degree preferred
At least 2 years of previous work experience in service
Ability to comprehend and use basic written and spoken language
Capability to make and weigh flour and prepare various dough styles including sourdough, baguettes, and dinner rolls
Skilled in decorating cakes, custom pastries, and garnishes such as flowers and chocolate decorations
Ability to read, comprehend, and write simple instructions and correspondence
Basic numerical operation skills including counting, adding, subtracting, multiplying, and dividing
Strong interpersonal skills with patience, tact, and diplomacy when dealing with customers and staff
Fluency in English, additional languages preferred

Job Duties

Follow kitchen safety procedures at all times
Follow handwashing and other personal and kitchen sanitation procedures at all times
Report safety, sanitation, and other similar violations to the chef
Operate, maintain, and clean kitchen equipment according to instructions
Set up stations including utensils and equipment
Receive and store food ensuring proper rotation and temperature
Review production schedule to stock all necessary items
Prepare items according to recipes, plating guides, and photographs
Maintain cleanliness by disposing of trash and cleaning work areas and equipment
Follow workplace health and safety guidelines when handling substances
Maintain positive and professional communication with staff
Provide recognition to co-workers, supervisors, and managers
Participate in meetings on global programs, new products, and special events
Ensure a healthy and safe work environment
Assist guests by promoting outlets and providing directions
Resolve guest complaints using property procedures
Foster a positive environment for employee potential
Listen to feedback to improve performance
Work as a team to deliver Amplified Service
Participate in shift meetings
Greet guests warmly
Understand and practice the mission, values, and culture of Hard Rock
Take initiative to assist throughout the property
Operate ethically to protect the brand
Utilize environmental sustainability programs
Perform assigned duties according to company standards and laws
Coordinate operations with other departments
Present a professional image
Maintain confidentiality of guest, employee, and company information