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Pastry Chef Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Pantry Chef

West Des Moines, IA

$14.75 - $17.75/hr

Under the direction of the Executive Chef or Manager-on-Duty, the Pantry Cook portions, prepares, and assembles all cold food items (salads, cold appetizers, and hot/cold desserts) offered in the ...

Sous Chef

Sioux City, IA · On-site

$47K - $63K/yr

The Sous Chef helps lead kitchen staff, ensures efficient meal service, and contributes to a positive dining experience. Essential Job Responsibilities * Prepare and portion food ingredients ...

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.

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

Mount Vernon, IA · On-site

$46K - $62K/yr

* We are hiring immediately for full time SOUS CHEF positions. * Location : Cornell College - 600 First Street Southwest, Mount Vernon, IA 52314. Note: online applications accepted only. * Schedule ...

Sous Chef

Muscatine, IA · On-site

$46K - $63K/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 ...

Working as the Sous Chef, you will be responsible for the successful operation of the Culinary Department for a facility. You will assist in the supervision, preparation, and cooking of various food ...

Sous Chef

Riverside, IA · On-site

$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

West Des Moines, IA · 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 ...

SOUS CHEF (FULL TIME)

Mount Vernon, IA

$46K - $62K/yr

* We are hiring immediately for full time SOUS CHEF positions. * Location : Cornell College - 600 First Street Southwest, Mount Vernon, IA 52314. Note: online applications accepted only. * Schedule ...

SOUS CHEF (FULL TIME)

Mount Vernon, IA · On-site

$46K - $62K/yr

* We are hiring immediately for full time SOUS CHEF positions. * Location : Cornell College - 600 First Street Southwest, Mount Vernon, IA 52314. Note: online applications accepted only. * Schedule ...

SOUS CHEF (FULL TIME)

Mount Vernon, IA · On-site

$46K - $62K/yr

* We are hiring immediately for full time SOUS CHEF positions. * Location : Cornell College - 600 First Street Southwest, Mount Vernon, IA 52314. Note: online applications accepted only. * Schedule ...

Sous Chef

Sioux City, IA · On-site

$49K - $66K/yr

Work with Restaurant Chef to analyze food costs and forecast business trends to make recommendations for revision of menu prices that will most appropriately meet company goals. * Perform other ...

Sous Chef

Sioux City, IA

$49K - $66K/yr

Work with Restaurant Chef to analyze food costs and forecast business trends to make recommendations for revision of menu prices that will most appropriately meet company goals. * Perform other ...

Sous Chef

Sioux City, IA · On-site

$49K - $66K/yr

Work with Restaurant Chef to analyze food costs and forecast business trends to make recommendations for revision of menu prices that will most appropriately meet company goals. * Perform other ...

Sous Chef

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$26.54 - $30.77/hr

... Chef with all kitchen operations. • Recognizes superior quality products, presentations and flavor. • Ensures compliance with all local, state and federal (e.g., OSHA, ASI and Health Department ...

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 Sep 4, 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.

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.

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.

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.

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 competitive environments. Success often requires creativity, technical skills, and sometimes formal culinary training or certifications.

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. Job growth is expected to be consistent as the culinary industry continues to prioritize quality desserts and baked goods.

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 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $48,881 per year, or $23.5 per hour.

Pantry Chef

Ruth's Chris Steak House

West Des Moines, IA

$14.75 - $17.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Prepare, portion, and assemble all cold food items such as salads, cold appetizers, and desserts according to restaurant standards.

  • Maintain cleanliness, sanitation, and food safety standards in the work area, including equipment, surfaces, and storage areas.

  • Rotate, restock, and set up the pantry station with all necessary ingredients, supplies, and equipment to ensure smooth kitchen operations.


Ruth's Chris Steak House rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 39 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

15th of 88 rated restaurants


Job description

Established in 2017, Prime Hospitality Group started with five Ruth’s Chris Steak House restaurants and swiftly grew to become the largest franchise group of the global brand with twelve current locations. In recent years, we have expanded to additional food and beverage concepts as well as into hotel hospitality space, creating a thriving collection of exciting service-oriented brands. 

As a committed employer, we seek dedicated Team Members and empower them to achieve their goals. With passion and values to guide our Team, we work tirelessly to provide unparalleled hospitality and outstanding experiences.  

POSITION SUMMARY:

Beloved for over 50 years and acclaimed for the Sizzle, Ruth’s Chris Steak House is an institution, and the brand that started it all for Prime Hospitality Group. Our mission is to deliver the best steak house experience – period. Whether guests join us for a romantic dinner for two or a business dinner for 12, we do it the best that it can be done.

Under the direction of the Executive Chef or Manager-on-Duty, the Pantry Cook portions, prepares, and assembles all cold food items (salads, cold appetizers, and hot/cold desserts) offered in the restaurant and accomplishes all food preparation, cooking methods, procedures and timing with a Demand for Excellence to ensure that all food product adheres to the restaurant specifications and quality standards.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS (Key Tasks and Responsibilities):

Demand for Excellence

• Reports to work on time and is on the pantry station as indicated on the weekly work schedule. Uniform meets restaurant requirements and is maintained clean. Practices positive personal hygiene and cleanliness habits during all work shifts.

• Correctly prepares vegetables for salads; portions and plates salads and desserts and ensures that all food is prepared and served up to Ruth’s Chris standards of quality, presentation, and timing.

• Correctly completes all station closing duties at the end of each shift. Assists Kitchen Manager and other kitchen personnel in accomplishing closing duties and kitchen cleanliness.

• Maintains the highest degree of sanitation, cleanliness, and food safety for work area to include counter tops, refrigeration units, floors, walls, and shelving.

Passion for Hospitality

• Fosters openness and communication to promote and encourage team-oriented environment within the restaurant,

• Ensures The Sizzle is at the core of your work performance and that each guest receives the highest level of service; use the language of The Sizzle during all interactions with guests, vendors, and other Team Members.

Hunger to Grow

• Rotates and restocks all pantry food items, condiments, plateware, smallwares, equipment and supplies throughout the shift to ensure sufficient stock and back-up levels for the demands of the business,

• Assists other kitchen personnel in food preparation and sidework as assigned by the Executive Chef. Preps all food product according to the standards and procedures stated on the Ruth’s Chris Steak House recipe cards.

Unwavering Commitment

• Sets-up the pantry station to include all cold food items, preparation equipment, smallwares, plateware, food ingredients, garnishes and supply items needed for effective operation of the station. Follows the Pantry Station Checklist for station set-up and stocking. Reports any problems or discrepancies to the Chef on a timely basis,

• Communicates and coordinates with the broiler and side cooks to ensure that all food product is prepared and ready for service at the correct time.

Desire to Win

• Checks, prior to the start of the shift, the par and stock levels of all salad ingredients, cold appetizers, dessert items, condiments, garnishes, equipment, chilled plates, and other service plateware and smallwares to ensure sufficient quantity for the demands of the business,

• Preps and cooks all food to ensure that all items are prepared according to company specifications, recipes, procedures, and quality standards. Ensures our guests have a superior dining experience by correctly timing and serving all food product,

• Accomplishes all job duties while adhering to all safety guidelines and practices throughout the shift. Immediately reports any unsafe conditions, unsafe acts, accidents and/or injuries to the Chef and/or Manager-On-Duty.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS (Minimum qualifications needed to perform essential job functions):

• Must be able to lift, handle, carry food, smallwares, equipment, supplies and papergoods at a minimum of 50 pounds.

• Must be able to constantly stand and exert well-paced mobility for a period up to four hours in length.

• Must be able to bend, kneel, stoop, reach and squat on a frequent basis to receive and store stock, supplies and equipment as well as to work the line during service periods.

• Must be able to communicate effectively and listen attentively to supervisors, employees, vendors, and guests.

• Must be able to taste – to be able to distinguish between and among flavors, spices, temperatures, mouth feel and smell – to distinguish between and among odors and scents as to their appeal and level of intensity for all food and beverage products.

• Must be able to work in an environment subject to extreme cold (30 degrees), heat (temperatures above 100 degrees), loud noises from restaurant equipment and machinery, and fumes, odors, dust, and smoke.

REQUIRED SKILLS/ABILITIES

• Highschool diploma or G.E.D,

• Ability to accurately perform measurement conversions present on recipes,

• Ability to multi-task in a fast-paced environment effectively and efficiently,

• Must be able to work a flexible schedule and expect to work weekends, nights, and holidays,

• Attention to Detail: Proven ability accomplish a task with concern for accuracy in all the areas involved, monitoring, and checking work or information and plans, organizing time and resources efficiently, and following up with others to ensure commitments have been fulfilled,

Collaboration/Teamwork: Proven ability to successfully work toward a common goal with others, including actively listening to others, taking responsibility for mistakes, and respecting the diversity of your colleagues,

• Communication: Proven ability to articulate thoughts and express ideas effectively using oral, written, visual and non-verbal communication skills, as well as listening skills to gain understanding. The ability to deliver information in person, in writing, and in a digital world,

• Inclusive Excellence: Proven ability to understand and respect different perspectives and cultures, demonstrating sensitivity to cultural norms, expectations, and ways of communicating, contributing to a work climate where differences are valued and supported, and apply others’ diverse experiences, styles, backgrounds, and perspectives to get results,

• Must successfully complete restaurant training program and maintain a willingness to learn.

PREFERRED SKILLS/ABILITIES

• SERV Safe Certified

• Minimum of one (1) year experience in the restaurant back of house kitchen environment

WORK AUTHORIZATION REQUIREMENTS

Authorized to work in the United States of America.

AFFIRMATIVE ACTION/EEO STATEMENT

PHG is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other protected characteristic as outlined by federal, state, or local laws. Our policy applies to all employment practices within our organization, including hiring, recruiting, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, leave of absence, compensation, benefits, training, and apprenticeship. PHG makes hiring decisions based solely on qualifications, merit, and business needs at the time.

OTHER DUTIES

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice. The above requirements outline management’s assignment of essential job functions. This information contained herein does not constitute a contract, express or implied.

Beloved for over 50 years and acclaimed for the Sizzle, Ruth’s Chris Steak House is an institution, and the brand that started it all for Prime Hospitality Group. Our mission is to deliver the best steak house experience – period. Whether guests join us for a romantic dinner for two or a business dinner for 12, we do it the best that it can be done.
Explore career opportunities with our team.


What Ruth's Chris Steak House employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Ruth's Chris Steak House logo

About Ruth's Chris Steak House

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Our steaks are cooked using a patented broiling method developed by our founder. They’re seasoned to perfection, and then served sizzling on 500-degree plates. Our chefs, cooks, and kitchen staff are among the best in the world. They’re trained to deliver steaks exactly the way Ruth wanted. We’ve combined the finest spirits, service, and steaks with a relaxed, friendly environment to create the best bar experience.

Industry

Food services and drinking places and restaurants

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Winter Park, FL, US