Pastry Chef
Pastry Chef
We're seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Pastry Chef/Baker to bring artistry and precision to our beloved locally-owned bakery and gourmet meals store in Rapid City, SD. Nell's has built a loyal community following through our commitment to quality ingredients, innovative flavors, and exceptional baked goods that bring joy to our customers' daily lives.
Located at the gateway to the stunning Black Hills, you'll work in an inspiring environment where creativity meets craftsmanship while enjoying world-class outdoor recreation just minutes away.
What You'll Create
Depending on your experience and shift responsibilities, you'll craft an impressive range of pastries including artisanal croissants, tarts, eclairs, custom cakes, seasonal cookies, French macarons, scones, gourmet filled cupcakes, muffins, and signature pies that showcase both traditional techniques and creative flair.
Key Responsibilities
Execute and refine existing recipes while developing exciting new offerings
Measure and prepare ingredients with meticulous attention to detail
Master commercial baking equipment, monitoring temperatures and timing for perfect results
- Produce pastries with artistic flair, ensuring visual appeal
- Apply artistic finishing touches through decorating, glazing, and custom cake work
- Maintain the highest standards for food safety and cleanliness
- Package finished products for display, maintaining quality and freshness
- Collaborate with team members on production planning and quality control
- Provide exceptional customer service when needed
- Contribute to workspace organization and equipment care
Requirements
- Must have at least 1 year experience working in a professional bakery or pastry shop setting making a variety of pastries at a commercial bakery, restaurant or other professional establishment OR be a graduate of a pastry or culinary program
- Knowledge of pastry fundamentals, baking techniques, and ingredient functions
- ServSafe certification or willingness to obtain within 60 days
- Ability to work early morning shifts (starting as early as 5 AM) and occasional Saturday mornings
- Physical stamina for standing up to 8 hours per shift, lifting up to 50 lbs
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to consistency
- Reliable, punctual, and able to take direction while contributing ideas
Preferred Qualifications
- Hands-on experience through internships, externships, or previous baking roles
- Currently enrolled in or recent graduate of a culinary arts program with pastry/baking focus
- Experience with cake decorating in a professional, commercial bakery or pastry shop
- Familiarity with commercial baking equipment and high-volume production
- Portfolio of pastry work (photos welcome)
- Previous experience in food industry, catering, or restaurant settings
- Barista experience a plus
What We Offer
- Real-world experience in a respected local bakery
- Generous paid time off, no holiday work requirements, and hands-on professional development
- Opportunity to work with high-quality ingredients and develop signature items
- Flexible scheduling to accommodate work/life balance
- Competitive pay based on experience level
- Potential for growth within our expanding business
Nell's is an equal opportunity employer.