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Pastry Specialist

Des Moines, IA, USA|Travel, Onsite

Job Overview

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Employment Type

Full-time
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Work Schedule

Standard Hours
Flexible
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Benefits

Health Insurance
Dental Insurance
Paid Time Off
Retirement Plan
Travel opportunities
Employee Discounts
Career Development

Job Description

Disney Cruise Line is a prestigious and innovative cruise line company that is part of The Walt Disney Company, renowned worldwide for its commitment to creating magical experiences for guests of all ages. Operating a fleet of modern ships that traverse exotic destinations, Disney Cruise Line offers an unparalleled level of service that combines the enchantment of Disney storytelling with outstanding hospitality and exceptional dining experiences. The company is dedicated to maintaining a diverse and inclusive workplace culture, where cast members are empowered to grow personally and professionally, often finding rewarding careers on the sea. Disney Cruise Line emphasizes safety, well-being, and environmental stewardship as integral pillars of its operation, ensuring that each voyage is safe, sustainable, and memorable for guests and crew alike.

The role of Pastry Chef aboard a Disney Cruise Line vessel is an exciting and challenging opportunity designed for culinary professionals passionate about excellence and creativity in pastry arts. As a Pastry Chef, you will work alongside the Executive Pastry Chef to develop, maintain, and elevate dessert menus that delight guests with magical moments of sweetness. This role demands a high level of technical expertise in preparing a diverse array of desserts, cakes, pastries, and specialty items, including showpieces, and accommodating special dietary requests such as allergy-sensitive meals.

Working aboard a ship requires adaptability and dedication, as the position involves living and working at sea for extended periods. The Pastry Chef is expected to lead and train a team of pastry staff, ensuring that all culinary creations meet Disney Cruise Line's rigorous standards for quality, safety, presentation, and sanitation, complying with United States Public Health regulations and maritime policies. The role also involves comprehensive responsibilities for kitchen opening and closing protocols, monitoring food safety practices, and ensuring that the production areas are meticulously maintained according to Disney's values and operational guidelines.

This position is ideal for experienced pastry chefs seeking to advance their careers in a unique maritime environment that offers professional growth, cultural diversity, and the chance to be part of a globally recognized brand. The Pastry Chef position is shipboard and requires a strong commitment to the demands of cruise life, including willingness to work long hours, participate in emergency duties, and share accommodations with fellow crew members. Disney Cruise Line values individuals who bring passion, creativity, and a guest-oriented mindset to their culinary craft and are excited about contributing to an extraordinary guest experience at sea.

Job Requirements

  • Willingness to live and work on board a ship for specified durations
  • ability to work a seven-day, 70-84 hour work week with limited breaks
  • willingness to share a cabin with other crew members
  • commitment to working in a busy, fast-paced, guest-focused environment
  • flexibility in work schedule, responsibilities, and locations
  • hold a valid passport and C1/D Seaman's visa
  • complete a pre-employment medical examination
  • obtain a criminal background check
  • bring approved work shoes for the position
  • willingness to follow and respect United States Public Health regulations and company practices
  • commitment to a drug-free environment including drug/alcohol testing during contract
  • prepared to perform safety duties as per ship Assembly Plan
  • ability to adapt to a structured lifestyle personally and professionally
  • readiness to commit to at least 2-3 contracts before seeking transfer or promotion

Job Qualifications

  • A minimum of five years of recent experience as a Pastry Chef or Pastry Chef de Partie
  • certification as a Pastry Chef or a comparable degree in Culinary Arts
  • strong technical knowledge of food and beverage operations on a ship
  • a proven history of producing high-quality products
  • fluent in spoken and written English
  • at least 21 years of age
  • compliance with Disney Cruise Line appearance standards
  • appreciation for diversity among guests and crew members

Job Duties

  • Collaborate with the Executive Pastry Chef to develop, maintain, and enhance all approved menus aboard the ship
  • craft an array of desserts, cakes, and pastries that delight guests
  • assist in the setup of buffet stations to ensure an exceptional dining experience
  • guide team members in the preparation of pastries, cakes, and creams
  • ensure adherence to opening and closing protocols for kitchens and production areas
  • lead training for pastry staff on allergy awareness and dietary considerations
  • supervise the preparation of special dietary meals and manage food allergies for guests and crew
  • delegate tasks and monitor kitchen team operations
  • strive to surpass guest expectations while ensuring safety and quality
  • uphold Disney Cruise Line and USPH sanitation standards
  • ensure presentation and preparation of menu items meets high standards
  • create stunning showpieces, displays, ice creams, and sorbets
  • engage in Castaway Cay-related duties as directed
  • handle additional responsibilities assigned by DCL leadership
  • follow all company policies and maritime regulations
  • participate in emergency duties as outlined in the ship Assembly Plan

Job Criteria

Experience

Expert Level (7+ years)


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