Seasonal Chef Instructor, Pastry (Sur La Table)

Sur La Table is a premier specialty retailer and cooking school in the United States, boasting over 59 stores and recognized for having the largest avocational cooking program in the country. The company offers an unparalleled selection of exclusive, premium-quality kitchen and table goods, dedicated to enriching culinary experiences for cooking enthusiasts and professionals alike. Known for its commitment to culinary expertise, Sur La Table inspires chefs of all levels to explore the art of cooking and sharing good food. Whether engaging with customers in-store, supporting digital growth initiatives, or providing critical behind-the-scenes operations, the team members at Sur La Table share a common passion: to create happiness through the joy of cooking and community connection.

The Seasonal Chef Instructor, Pastry role at Sur La Table is a unique opportunity for individuals with a passion for baking and pastry arts to become the in-store expert and ambassador for this craft. This role demands a strong commitment to delivering the highest standards in pastry instruction, fostering a love for baking among participants, and driving the sales of related products such as bakeware, mixers, and decorating tools. As an instructor, you are responsible for delivering engaging, hands-on classes that educate and inspire guests, leveraging the company’s best-in-center service model, which emphasizes excellence, personalized instruction, and specialized knowledge.

In this position, you will play a critical role in creating memorable, educational culinary experiences that boost customer loyalty and encourage repeat business. The Seasonal Chef Instructor, Pastry will communicate complex pastry techniques and baking fundamentals in an approachable and encouraging manner, ensuring all classes maintain consistency and quality by following provided recipes and game plans. Staying current on the latest developments, products, and training opportunities in pastry arts is an essential part of this role, as continuous learning helps maintain expert status and the ability to inspire others.

Beyond instruction, this role involves driving business performance by hitting class enrollment and revenue goals, promoting retail items used or featured in classes, and positively influencing key performance indicators such as second-class sign-ups, product sales, and customer feedback through online platforms like Google reviews. Team collaboration is also important; you will assist in the setup and breakdown of classes, maintain cleanliness and sanitation in compliance with health and safety standards, manage inventory with minimal shrinkage, and ensure store safety and compliance with company policies.

Physical requirements include the ability to stand for extended periods, communicate effectively with team members and customers, work with various kitchen tools and equipment safely, and demonstrate techniques physically through chopping, whisking, stirring, and more. This role requires flexible availability, including nights, weekends, and holidays, for approximately 12 to 16 hours per week, with the possibility of schedule changes based on business needs.

Sur La Table values diversity and equal opportunity and is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities. With its welcoming culture and focus on culinary education, the company offers a dynamic work environment for passionate culinary instructors looking to share their expertise and contribute to a vibrant community of food lovers.