Pastry Chef

Job Title: Pastry Chef
Department: Culinary
Reports To: Executive Chef
Location: Hyatt Centric Chicago O’Hare
Classification: Full-Time, Exempt

Position Summary:

The Pastry Chef is responsible for overseeing all pastry and dessert operations within the hotel, including menu creation, production, quality control, and staff training. This leader plays a key role in delivering innovative, high-quality pastry offerings for all outlets, banquets, in-room dining, and special events. The ideal candidate brings creativity, leadership, and precision to the culinary team, aligned with the unique identity of Hyatt Centric—modern, bold, and guest-focused.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities:

• Develop and execute creative, seasonal pastry menus for restaurant outlets, banquets, and in-room dining
• Oversee daily pastry production, ensuring consistency in quality, taste, and presentation
• Supervise and train pastry cooks and support staff, providing coaching and maintaining high standards
• Collaborate with Executive Chef and culinary leadership on overall menu development and special projects
• Ensure all food is prepared and stored in compliance with Hyatt and local food safety standards
• Manage inventory, ordering, and cost control for all pastry-related products and supplies
• Support the planning and execution of VIP amenities, weddings, tastings, and promotional events
• Monitor kitchen equipment and maintenance needs, reporting issues promptly
• Stay current on industry trends, guest preferences, and dietary considerations
• Foster a positive, collaborative kitchen culture focused on excellence, teamwork, and innovation

Qualifications:

Education & Experience:

• Degree or certification in Culinary Arts, Baking & Pastry, or related field preferred
• Minimum 3 years pastry experience in a full-service hotel, upscale restaurant, or bakery required
• Previous supervisory experience preferred

Skills & Competencies:

• Expertise in pastry techniques including plated desserts, viennoiserie, cakes, mousses, and chocolate work
• Strong leadership, organization, and time management skills
• Creative thinker with a keen eye for detail and presentation
• Proficiency in managing food and labor costs
• Working knowledge of kitchen sanitation, equipment maintenance, and food safety practices
• Ability to work flexible hours including early mornings, weekends, and holidays as required

Work Environment & Physical Demands:

• Requires standing, walking, bending, and lifting up to 50 lbs.
• Must be able to work in a fast-paced kitchen environment and manage multiple priorities
• Exposure to heat, refrigeration, and sharp kitchen equipment

About Hyatt Centric Chicago O’Hare:

Hyatt Centric Chicago O’Hare is designed for the modern explorer—guests who seek stylish spaces, authentic local flavors, and memorable experiences. As part of the Hyatt family, we strive to provide caring, intuitive service in everything we do. The Pastry Chef will play a key role in shaping the hotel’s culinary reputation and delighting our guests through every sweet and stunning bite.

EEOC/ ADA Statements United Professional Staff is committed to fostering, cultivating, and preserving a culture of diversity and inclusion. We provide equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. Our commitment extends beyond preventing discrimination and harassment; it’s about creating an environment where diverse backgrounds and perspectives are valued. We believe in the power of our people, the ideas they bring, and what we can accomplish together. Consistent with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), all state & federal requirements, it is the policy of [Employer] to provide reasonable accommodation when requested by a qualified applicant or employee with a disability, unless such accommodation would cause an undue hardship. United Professional Staff also provides reasonable accommodations as required under the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (PWFA) for limitations related to pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions. The policy regarding requests for reasonable accommodation applies to all aspects of employment, including the application process. If reasonable accommodation is needed, please contact the Recruitment Team 813-425-1985.