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Pastry Chef Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Sous Chef

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$48K - $65K/yr

Assists Executive 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 ...

Chef

Ames, IA · On-site

EOE Statement We are an equal employment opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin ...

Chef

Ames, IA · On-site

* Prepare fresh ingredients for cooking according to recipes/menu * Cook food and prepare top-quality menu items in a timely manner * Test foods to ensure proper preparation and temperature * Operate ...

Sous Chef

Northwood, IA · On-site

$46K - $63K/yr

Company Description Boyd Gaming Corporation has been successful in gaming jurisdiction in which we operate in the United States and is one of the premier casino entertainment companies in the United ...

Sous Chef

Pella, IA · On-site

$45K - $50K/yr

West Side Social is Pella's newest dining and entertainment destination! We are looking for a kitchen leader to round out our team. At least 2 years experience as a kitchen leader in a full service ...

Sous Chef

Pella, IA · On-site

$45K - $50K/yr

West Side Social is Pella's newest dining and entertainment destination! We are looking for a kitchen leader to round out our team. At least 2 years experience as a kitchen leader in a full service ...

Sous Chef

Northwood, IA · On-site

$46K - $63K/yr

Company Description Boyd Gaming Corporation has been successful in gaming jurisdiction in which we operate in the United States and is one of the premier casino entertainment companies in the United ...

Sous Chef

Pella, IA · On-site

$45K - $50K/yr

West Side Social is Pella's newest dining and entertainment destination! We are looking for a kitchen leader to round out our team. At least 2 years experience as a kitchen leader in a full service ...

Froster

Coralville, IA · On-site

$12.50 - $15/hr

Effectively utilizes measuring instruments, commercial-grade or handheld mixer and pastry bag to frost cakes. * Prioritizes cake pre-orders according to schedule and frosts cakes for walk-in guest ...

Froster

Bettendorf, IA · On-site

$10.75 - $13.50/hr

Effectively utilizes measuring instruments, commercial-grade or handheld mixer and pastry bag to frost cakes. * Prioritizes cake pre-orders according to schedule and frosts cakes for walk-in guest ...

Effectively utilizes measuring instruments, commercial-grade or handheld mixer and pastry bag to frost cakes. * Prioritizes cake pre-orders according to schedule, and frosts cakes for walk-in guest ...

Full Time Froster

Clive, IA · On-site

$13 - $16/hr

Effectively utilizes measuring instruments, commercial-grade or handheld mixer and pastry bag to frost cakes. * Prioritizes cake pre-orders according to schedule, and frosts cakes for walk-in guest ...

Froster

Council Bluffs, IA · On-site

$11.25 - $14/hr

Effectively utilizes measuring instruments, commercial-grade or handheld mixer and pastry bag to frost cakes. * Prioritizes cake pre-orders according to schedule, and frosts cakes for walk-in guest ...

Froster

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$13/hr

Effectively utilizes measuring instruments, commercial-grade or handheld mixer and pastry bag to frost cakes. * Prioritizes cake pre-orders according to schedule, and frosts cakes for walk-in guest ...

Showing results 41-60

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.

$26.54 - $30.77/hr

Full-time

Posted 25 days ago


Marriott International rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 1,190 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

55th of 109 rated hotels


Job description


JOB SUMMARY
Accountable for overall success of the daily kitchen operations. Exhibits culinary talents by personally performing tasks while leading the staff and managing all food related functions. Works to continually improve guest and associate satisfaction while maintaining the operating budget. Supervises all kitchen areas to ensure a consistent, high quality product is produced. Responsible for guiding and developing staff including direct reports. Must ensure sanitation and food standards are achieved.
CANDIDATE PROFILE
Education and Experience
• High school diploma or GED; 4 years experience in the culinary, food and beverage, or related professional area.
OR
• 2-year degree from an accredited university in Culinary Arts, Hotel and Restaurant Management, or related major; 2 years experience in the culinary, food and beverage, or related professional area.
CORE WORK ACTIVITIES
Ensuring Culinary Standards and Responsibilities are Met
• Assists in developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, systems, or products, including artistic contributions.
• Assists in determining how food should be presented and creates decorative food displays.
• Supports supervision of kitchen shift operations and ensures compliance with all Food & Beverage policies, standards and procedures.
• Informs purchasing, receiving and food storage standards.
• Ensures compliance with food handling and sanitation standards.
• Performs all duties of kitchen managers and associates as necessary.
• Estimates daily production needs on a weekly basis and communicates production needs to kitchen personnel daily.
• Assists Executive 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) regulations.
• Follows proper handling and right temperature of all food products.
• Operates and maintains all department equipment and reports malfunctions.
• Prepares and cooks foods of all types, either on a regular basis or for special guests or functions.
• Checks the quality of raw and cooked food products to ensure that standards are met.
Supporting Management of Kitchen Operations
• Utilizes interpersonal and communication skills to lead, influence, and encourage others; advocates sound financial/business decision making; demonstrates honesty/integrity; leads by example.
• Encourages and builds mutual trust, respect, and cooperation among team members.
• Demonstrate appropriate behaviors.
• Ensures associates understand expectations and parameters of kitchen goals and/or daily kitchen work.
• Establishes and maintains open, collaborative relationships with associates and ensures associates do the same within the team.
• Ensures property policies are administered fairly and consistently.
• Communicates performance expectations in accordance with job descriptions for each position.
• Recognizes success performance and produces desired results.
• Leads shifts while personally preparing food items and executing requests based on required specifications.
Ensuring Exceptional Customer Service
• Provides services that are above and beyond for customer satisfaction and retention.
• Sets a positive example for guest relations.
• Empowers associates to provide excellent customer service.
• Strives to improve service performance.
• Interacts with guests to obtain feedback on product quality and service levels.
• Handles guest problems and complaints.
Maintaining Culinary Goals
• Achieves and exceeds goals including performance goals, budget goals, team goals, etc.
• Assists in development of specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your work.
• Utilizes the Labor Management System to effectively schedule to business demands and for tracking of associate time and attendance.
• Trains associates in safety procedures.
Additional Responsibilities
• Provides information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
• Analyzes information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
• Attends and participates in all pertinent meetings (e.g., Daily Stand Up, BEO, Pre-Cons, Staff, Forecast, Department and Intradepartment).
At Marriott International, we are dedicated to being an equal opportunity employer, welcoming all and providing access to opportunity. We actively foster an environment where the unique backgrounds of our associates are valued and celebrated. Our greatest strength lies in the rich blend of culture, talent, and experiences of our associates. We are committed to non-discrimination on any protected basis, including disability, veteran status, or other basis protected by applicable law.
About the Team
Marriott Hotels strive to elevate the art of hospitality, innovating at every opportunity while keeping the comfort of the oh-so-familiar all around the globe. As a host with Marriott Hotels, you will help keep the promise of "Wonderful Hospitality. Always." by delivering thoughtful, heartfelt, forward-thinking service that upholds and builds upon this living legacy. With the name that's synonymous with hospitality the world over, we are proud to welcome you to explore a career with Marriott Hotels. In joining Marriott Hotels, you join a portfolio of brands with Marriott International. Be where you can do your best work, begin your purpose, belong to an amazing global team, and become the best version of you.
JW Marriott is part of Marriott International's luxury portfolio and consists of more than 100 beautiful properties in gateway cities and distinctive resort locations around the world. JW believes our associates come first. Because if you're happy, our guests will be happy. JW Marriott associates are confident, innovative, genuine, intuitive, and carry on the legacy of the brand's namesake and company founder, J.Willard Marriott. Our hotels offer a work experience unlike any other, where you'll be part of a community and enjoy true camaraderie with a diverse group of co-workers. JW creates opportunities for training, development, recognition and most importantly, a place where you can pursue your passions in a luxury environment with a focus on holistic well-being. Treating guests exceptionally starts with the way we take care of our associates. That's The JW Treatment™. In joining JW Marriott, you join a portfolio of brands with Marriott International. Be where you can do your best work, begin your purpose, belong to an amazing global team, and become the best version of you.

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