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Pastry Chef Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Sous Chef - Banquets

Ames, IA ยท On-site

$48K - $66K/yr

The Gateway Hotel & Conference Center is looking for a Sous Chef to work in the Banquet side of the Kitchen. In this position you will lead the way in the preparation of menu items for Banquet events ...

Lucky's Sous Chef

Tama, IA ยท On-site

$22.66/hr

Document and report to Executive Chef incidents-of-interest involving F&B employees and customers related to safety, service, products and performance. Provide written shift summaries as directed.

Sous Chef

Bettendorf, IA

$44K - $60K/yr

Sous Chef As Sous Chef, you'll be a key leader in our culinary team, supporting the Culinary Director in delivering high-quality, nutritious, and beautifully presented meals. You'll help oversee ...

Sous Chef

Bettendorf, IA ยท On-site

$44K - $60K/yr

Sous Chef As Sous Chef, you'll be a key leader in our culinary team, supporting the Culinary Director in delivering high-quality, nutritious, and beautifully presented meals. You'll help oversee ...

Sous Chef

Bettendorf, IA

$44K - $60K/yr

Sous Chef As Sous Chef, you'll be a key leader in our culinary team, supporting the Culinary Director in delivering high-quality, nutritious, and beautifully presented meals. You'll help oversee ...

Job Summary Working as the Sous Chef, you will be responsible for the successful food service operation of the hospital's large-scale kitchen, serving patients, retail customers in the cafeteria and ...

Sous Chef

Davenport, IA ยท On-site

$51K - $56K/yr

Job Summary Working as the Sous Chef, you will be responsible for the successful food service operation of the hospital's large-scale kitchen, serving patients, retail customers in the cafeteria and ...

Sous Chef

Davenport, IA ยท On-site

$51K - $56K/yr

Job Summary Working as the Sous Chef, you will be responsible for the successful food service operation of the hospital's large-scale kitchen, serving patients, retail customers in the cafeteria and ...

Sous Chef

Bettendorf, IA ยท On-site

$44K - $60K/yr

Sous Chef As Sous Chef, you'll be a key leader in our culinary team, supporting the Culinary Director in delivering high-quality, nutritious, and beautifully presented meals. You'll help oversee ...

F&B Sous Chef

Tama, IA ยท On-site

$22.66/hr

Document and report to Executive Chef incidents-of-interest involving F&B employees and customers related to safety, service, products and performance. Provide written shift summaries as directed.

Chef - PRN

Nevada, IA ยท On-site

Join us at Story County Medical Center as a CHEF within our Senior Care Center! Located in Nevada, Iowa, we deliver top-quality healthcare across multiple specialties in a community-focused setting.

Chef - PRN

Nevada, IA ยท On-site

Join us at Story County Medical Center as a CHEF within our Senior Care Center! Located in Nevada, Iowa, we deliver top-quality healthcare across multiple specialties in a community-focused setting.

Sous Chef

Carter Lake, IA ยท On-site

$47K - $64K/yr

SUMMARY The Sous Chef leads the culinary line in preparing meals to meet the requests of our guests. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES * Ensures all orders are prepared to established standards ...

Sous Chef

Riverside, IA

$47K - $64K/yr

The Sous Chef is responsible for overseeing all aspects of food service in both restaurants. This position must be able to lead and train other staff members, as well as possess extensive knowledge ...

Sous Chef

Cedar Rapids, IA

$48K - $66K/yr

The Sous Chef is responsible for overseeing all aspects of food service in both restaurants. This position must be able to lead and train other staff members, as well as possess extensive knowledge ...

Sous Chef

West Des Moines, IA ยท On-site

$45K - $62K/yr

As a successful Sous Chef, you will be the key to fulfilling our promise to make every guest visit a memorable celebration of food, wine, and personalized service. Ensuring that Fleming's is an ...

Chef As our Chef, you'll play a key role in supporting the health, happiness, and daily experience of the residents at Heritage House in Atlantic As our Chef, you will: * Lead Meal Production with ...

Chef As our Chef, you'll play a key role in supporting the health, happiness, and daily experience of the residents at Heritage House in Atlantic As our Chef, you will: * Lead Meal Production with ...

Chef As our Chef, you'll play a key role in supporting the health, happiness, and daily experience of the residents at Heritage House in Atlantic As our Chef, you will: * Lead Meal Production with ...

Showing results 21-40

Pastry Chef information

See Iowa salary details

$11

$23

$38

How much do pastry chef jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for pastry chef in Iowa is $23.50, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.16 and $29.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a pastry chef?

Pastry chefs are culinary professionals who specialize in creating baked goods, desserts, and pastries. They are skilled in techniques such as dough preparation, chocolate work, and decorating cakes or desserts. Pastry chefs often work in bakeries, restaurants, hotels, or patisseries, and are responsible for designing dessert menus, developing recipes, and ensuring the quality of sweet offerings. Their creativity and precision are essential for producing visually appealing and delicious treats.

Is a pastry chef a good career?

A pastry chef is a skilled culinary professional specializing in baked goods and desserts, often working in restaurants, bakeries, or hotels. The career can be rewarding for those passionate about baking, but it typically involves long hours, physical demands, and the need for creativity and technical skills. Job prospects depend on experience, location, and the ability to adapt to industry trends.

What is the difference between Pastry Chef vs Baker?

AspectPastry ChefBaker
CredentialsFormal culinary training, pastry certifications often preferredVaries; some formal training, but often self-taught or on-the-job
Work EnvironmentProfessional kitchens, restaurants, hotels, pastry shopsBakery shops, commercial bakeries, cafes
Job FocusCreating pastries, desserts, and baked goods with artistic presentationPreparing bread, rolls, and basic baked goods, often in larger quantities
Industry UsageCommonly employed in fine dining, hotels, pastry boutiquesFound in retail bakeries, supermarkets, and casual eateries

The main difference between a Pastry Chef and a Baker lies in their focus and work environment. Pastry Chefs typically have formal training and work in upscale settings creating intricate desserts, while Bakers often focus on bread and simple baked goods, working in more casual or retail environments.

How much do pastry chefs make?

Pastry chefs in Florida typically earn between $30,000 and $50,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and establishment type. Salaries can increase with advanced skills, certifications, and working in high-end or busy venues.

What are some common challenges pastry chefs face when working in a busy kitchen environment?

Pastry chefs in busy kitchens often encounter challenges such as maintaining consistency in quality and presentation, managing time efficiently to meet tight deadlines, and adapting to last-minute menu changes or special requests. Balancing creativity with the need for precise measurements and techniques is essential, as is collaborating closely with other kitchen staff to coordinate service. Strong organizational skills and the ability to stay calm under pressure are key to overcoming these challenges and ensuring smooth kitchen operations.

What does a pastry chef do?

A pastry chef is a skilled culinary professional who specializes in baking pastries, desserts, bread, cakes, cookies, and other sweet cooking preparations. The specific tasks assigned to a pastry chef depend on the job, but in general, they are responsible for inventorying and stocking ingredients, developing recipes, overseeing the pastry department or station, and baking all manner of baked goods, including desserts, bread, pastries, and candies.

Are pastry chefs well paid?

Pastry chefs' salaries vary depending on experience, location, and establishment, but they generally earn a median annual wage that is competitive within the culinary industry. Entry-level pastry chefs may start with lower wages, while those with advanced skills or working in high-end restaurants can earn higher salaries. Certifications and specialized skills can also influence earning potential.

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

To thrive as a Pastry Chef, you need expertise in baking techniques, recipe development, and food safety, typically supported by formal culinary training or certification. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, temperature control systems, and inventory management tools is crucial. Creativity, attention to detail, and strong time management set standout pastry chefs apart. These skills and qualities are vital for producing high-quality pastries, maintaining consistency, and excelling in a fast-paced culinary environment.

Is there a high demand for pastry chefs?

The demand for pastry chefs remains steady in the hospitality and food service industries, especially in high-end restaurants, hotels, and bakeries. Employment opportunities can vary by region and economic conditions, but overall, skilled pastry chefs with creativity and technical skills are sought after in the culinary field.
What are the most commonly searched types of Pastry Chef jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Pastry Chef jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Pastry Chef jobs in Iowa? For Pastry Chef jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Pastry Chef jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Pastry Chef jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Pastry Chef jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Pastry Chef job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Pastry Chef jobs in IA? For Pastry Chef jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Pastry Chef job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,881 per year, or $23.5 per hour.

Sous Chef - Banquets

GATEWAY HOTEL & CONFERENCE CENTER

Ames, IA โ€ข On-site

$48K - $66K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago


Job description

Description:

The Gateway Hotel & Conference Center is looking for a Sous Chef to work in the Banquet side of the Kitchen. In this position you will lead the way in the preparation of menu items for Banquet events to the exacting standards and specifications set forth by the Executive Chef. The successful candidate will report directly to the Executive Sous or Chef to help fulfill our mission to enthusiastically deliver first class hospitality that exceeds guest expectations.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

· Assist in the execution and design of our Banquet Menu.

· Lead team to the successful and timely execution of service.

· Organize line to optimize efficiency.

· Assign, coordinate and supervise the food production areas in both the Banquet and Restaurant prep areas.

· Ensure established documentation procedures, (Cooling temperature log, waste log, product need list, etc.), are adhered to.

· Empowered to quickly and responsibly resolve any service recovery issues that may arise.

· Maintain an organized (mise en place), clean & sanitary work area. Follow the “clean as you go” philosophy (lead by example!).

· Ensure all products are properly labeled, dated and rotated (FIFO) in accordance with Iowa Department of Inspections and Appeals (lead by example!).

· Assess food items daily to ensure they meet quality standards set forth by the Executive Chef, while fostering a culture within your team to do the same.

· Communicate with Chef, immediately, issues that may arise in relation to service, food quality, staffing (or general employee concerns), equipment or any general concerns that may impact guest satisfaction.

· Attend weekly kitchen management team meeting.

· Assist in monthly inventory.

· Maintain a positive and professional attitude and demeanor consistent with The Gateway Hotel Values.

· Demonstrate the attributes set forth in our Values: Honesty, Integrity, Enthusiastic, Positive Attitude, TEAMWORK, Caring for the Guest and Each Other, Professionalism, Sharing & Transparency – the good and the bad, Treat each other with Respect & Dignity, Always Learning, Work towards continuous improvement, Celebrate Cultural & Individual Diversity, HAVE FUN at Work!

· Other duties as assigned.

Requirements:

· High school diploma or GED.

· Your experience matters: Consideration will be given to candidates that demonstrate they possess the knowledge and skill set to be successful in this position. You must have a minimum 2 years of experience as a Sous Chef or 3 years restaurant, hotel, country club (or similar venue) experience, with 2 years in a kitchen supervisory role.

· ServSafe (or equivalent) Food Manager Certification or ability to obtain within 6 months of hire.

· Weekend availability and scheduling flexibility are necessary.

· Excellent verbal communication and organizational skills.

· Must be able to execute assigned tasks in an accurate and timely manner (sense of urgency).

· Excellent understanding of the various cooking methods used in a professional kitchen, ingredients commonly used in a kitchen and kitchen equipment.

· Working knowledge of various basic computer software programs, e.g.: MS Office to include Word & Excel.

· Must be able to squat, lift and push 55lbs.

Preferred

· Culinary degree or current enrollment in a culinary program.

· Previous kitchen experience in a hotel, country club, event catering or similar venue.