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Pastry Associate Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

American Cruise Lines

Pastry Chef

Chester, IL · On-site

An Associate's degree in Culinary Arts or pastry & baking, and/or 3-5 years of experience with an emphasis on quality production. * Basic understanding of professional baking and pastries and food ...

American Cruise Lines

Pastry Chef

Chester, IL · On-site

An Associate's degree in Culinary Arts or pastry amp; baking, and/or 3-5 years of experience with an emphasis on quality production. * Basic understanding of professional baking and pastries and food ...

doco

Pastry Sous Chef

Chicago, IL

An Associate's degree in Pastry Arts * Mastery of baking techniques and knowledge of current catering industry trend Amount of Time Vision Demands Required None Under 1/3 1/3 to 2/3 Over 2/3 No ...

DO & CO

Pastry Sous Chef

Des Plaines, IL · On-site

$67K/yr

An Associate's degree in Pastry Arts * Mastery of baking techniques and knowledge of current catering industry trend Amount of Time Vision Demands Required None Under 1/3 1/3 to 2/3 Over 2/3 No ...

doco

Pastry Sous Chef

Chicago, IL · On-site

An Associate's degree in Pastry Arts * Mastery of baking techniques and knowledge of current catering industry trend Amount of Time Vision Demands Required None Under 1/3 1/3 to 2/3 Over 2/3 No ...

Color Hospitality

Bakery Production Associate

Chicago, IL · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

Pastry Experience At Color Hospitality Group, we believe great hospitality should color your palate. Our restaurants bring together bold flavors, vibrant concepts, and passionate people to create ...

Color Hospitality

Bakery Production Associate

Chicago, IL · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

POSITION OVERVIEW The Bakery Production Associate is a core member of our bakery team, responsible ... Pastry Experience ABOUT THE COMPANY At Color Hospitality Group, we believe great hospitality should ...

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Pastry Associate information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a pastry associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Pastry Associate, you need a solid understanding of baking techniques, ingredient handling, and food safety, often supported by formal culinary training or relevant experience. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, point-of-sale (POS) systems, and adherence to food hygiene certifications is typically required. Attention to detail, creativity, and strong teamwork skills help a Pastry Associate stand out in a busy bakery environment. These skills ensure high-quality pastry production, efficient kitchen operations, and a positive customer experience.

What are some common challenges faced by pastry associates in a busy bakery setting?

Pastry Associates often encounter challenges such as managing time efficiently during peak hours, maintaining consistency in product quality, and adapting to last-minute menu changes or special orders. Working in a busy bakery also requires effective communication and teamwork to coordinate tasks with bakers and front-of-house staff. Staying organized and keeping work areas clean while juggling multiple tasks are essential skills that help Pastry Associates thrive in a fast-paced environment.

What is a pastry associate?

Pastry Associates are culinary professionals who assist in preparing, baking, and decorating a variety of pastries, desserts, and baked goods. They work under the supervision of pastry chefs in bakeries, restaurants, hotels, or cafes, ensuring high-quality products are made according to recipes and standards. Their responsibilities often include measuring ingredients, operating baking equipment, maintaining cleanliness, and sometimes assisting with inventory. Pastry Associates play a key role in supporting kitchen operations and delivering delicious products to customers.

What is the difference between Pastry Associate vs Bakery Clerk?

AspectPastry AssociateBakery Clerk
CredentialsFood handling certification, basic baking knowledgeFood handling certification, customer service skills
Work EnvironmentBakery or pastry shop, kitchen settingGrocery store bakery section, retail environment
Employer & IndustryBakery, pastry shops, cafesGrocery stores, supermarkets
Job FocusPreparing, decorating, and selling pastriesAssisting customers, stocking baked goods

While both roles involve baked goods, a Pastry Associate focuses on preparing and decorating pastries in a bakery setting, whereas a Bakery Clerk primarily assists customers and manages stock in a retail grocery environment. The roles share some certifications but differ in daily tasks and work environment.

What are the most commonly searched types of Pastry jobs in Illinois? The most popular types of Pastry jobs in Illinois are:
Pastry Associate jobs near you

Pastry Chef

American Cruise Lines

Chester, IL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 29 days ago

Job description

Pastry Chef
American Cruise Lines, the largest cruise line operating exclusively within the United States, is seeking talented Pastry Chefs to join our team for the 2026 season. Our modern riverboats and iconic paddlewheelers carry no more than 200 guests, providing a uniquely intimate small-ship experience along America's rivers. With newly constructed vessels continually joining our expanding fleet, this is an excellent opportunity to contribute to exceptional culinary experiences nationwide.
The Pastry Chef should have the culinary expertise and experience to make a wide variety of desserts and baked goods, including confectionary work. They must be able to understand and appreciate the subtleties of flavor pairings and different tastes, as well as have a good aesthetic sense for food and pastry presentation. This position is responsible for adhering to the daily menu matrix consisting of desserts, pastries, breads and other duties assigned by the Executive Chef. The Pastry Chef must be creative and continually researching and testing new and different dessert and baking recipes to ensure that each guest and crew have an exceptional dining experience. While living onboard, our chefs enjoy comfortable living quarters and a challenging culinary working environment. Our galleys are well equipped with a spectacular view.
At American Cruise Lines, we are driven by our values-Optimism, Commitment, Patriotism, and Merit. These values shape our culture, our service, and our people, guiding us as we work together to Share America's Story on the Finest American Ships.
Responsibilities:
  • Oversee creativity and prepare all desserts, bread, pastries, cookies, etc. required for vessel each day.
  • Prepare and serve items in accordance with established procedures, recipes, portion size, and presentation standards.
  • Set-up, maintain, and breaks down station according to FDA Standards.
  • Taste all products produced to assess quality.
  • Notify the Executive Chef of any product shortages or equipment maintenance issues.
  • Maintain accurate counts on all food items prepared to prevent discrepancies between amount of food needed and food prepared.
  • Schedule the production of all baked goods.
  • Always maintain an inventory of fresh baked goods.
  • Use food production equipment according to manufacturer's instructions.
  • Maintain a professional appearance at all times.
  • Ensure that each guest has a positive and memorable experience.

Qualifications:
  • An Associate's degree in Culinary Arts or pastry & baking, and/or 3-5 years of experience with an emphasis on quality production.
  • Basic understanding of professional baking and pastries and food & beverage knowledge.
  • Problem solving skills, organization skills, and self-motivation.
  • Commitment to quality service.
  • Must be able to pass a pre-employment drug test.
  • Must complete a criminal background check.
  • Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC).
  • Ability to perform the essential functions of the job with or without accommodation.

Work Schedule:
  • 7 days per week while onboard the ship.
  • 6-8 weeks working with 2 weeks of unpaid vacation.
  • This is a full-time, exempt position.

Essential Functions:
  • Ships experience forces from wind, waves, and currents, prompting them to exhibit six distinct motions known as ship motions. The six motions are surge, sway, heave, roll, pitch, and yaw. This position requires the ability to live and satisfactorily perform job duties in an environment that is subject to constant motion.
  • Ability to adapt and adjust daily to last-minute requests or changes.
  • Ability to multi-task and work in a team environment.
  • Ability to work calmly and effectively under pressure.
  • Ability to work around 12 hours per day.
  • Ability to assist in the event of an on-board emergency by quickly climbing up a ladder, opening, and passing through a 20" diameter hatch.
  • Ability to stand for your entire shift.
  • Ability to frequently lift up to 20 lbs. and occasionally lift up to 50 lbs.
  • Ability to frequently bend, squat and reach.
  • Ability to live and work on board a vessel for extended periods of time.
  • Ability to use stairs frequently.

Compensation and Benefits:
  • Competitive daily rate.
  • Health, dental, vision, and 401(k) with match.
  • Covered Expenses: American Cruise Lines provides travel, room and board, uniforms, and training.

Applicant Acknowledgment
By proceeding to apply for the above position, I acknowledge that I have read and understand the description of the job position for which I am applying, I agree that it accurately reflects the essential functions of the position, and I represent that I can complete the essential functions of the position.
Equal Opportunity Employer
American Cruise Lines is committed to providing equal employment opportunities for all employees and applicants. ‎American Cruise Lines bases all employment decisions on business needs, job requirements, and individual ‎qualifications without regard to protected characteristics, including, but not limited to, race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), national origin and citizenship, age (40 and over), disability (including perceived disability), generic information, military service, or any other protected characteristic under applicable federal, state, or local law. ‎This policy applies to all aspects of employment and employment decisions, including, but not limited to, ‎hiring, selection, job assignment, training, compensation, promotion, discipline, termination, and access ‎to benefits.‎
*Job sites across the nation.
This job description is not intended to be a comprehensive list of the duties and responsibilities of the position and such duties and responsibilities may change without notice.

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