Pastry Chef - OPEN TO VISA SPONSORSHIP

At Hyatt Hotels and Alila, we believe in creating unforgettable journeys where luxury is defined by authenticity, connection, and care. Perched high above the Pacific Ocean in the heart of Big Sur, Alila Ventana Big Sur is a Forbes 4-Star property and recipient of two MICHELIN Keys. Here, the sky, sea, mountains, and redwoods converge to create a sanctuary where colleagues and guests alike are inspired to connect, grow, and thrive. Our resort is deeply committed to environmental stewardship and sustainable operations, from sourcing local, seasonal ingredients to minimizing waste, conserving water, and protecting the surrounding redwood forest. Every role at Ventana plays a part in supporting these practices and honoring our unique natural environment.

Position Overview
The Pastry Chef leads and inspires the pastry team in creating innovative, visually stunning, and consistently high-quality pastry and bakery offerings for all dining outlets, banquets, and special events. This hands-on leadership role combines culinary artistry with strong administrative and operational skills, ensuring all pastry operations align with Hyatt quality standards, Alilas sustainability values, and the resorts seasonal, locally driven culinary philosophy. The Pastry Chef works closely with the Executive Chef, Events, and Food & Beverage teams, serving as a liaison between departments to deliver exceptional guest experiences. This is a fully on-site position at our Big Sur property, and we are open to considering visa sponsorship for qualified candidates.

Key Responsibilities
Creative Menu Development & Production

Develop and execute seasonal pastry and bakery menus incorporating locally sourced, sustainable ingredients

Design plated desserts, breads, cakes, and specialty pastries for restaurants, banquets, and unique one-off events

Introduce creative, trend-forward concepts that enhance the guest experience and reflect the natural beauty of Big Sur

Maintain consistency, quality, and on-brand presentation for all pastry items

Operational & Administrative Management

Oversee pastry production schedules, staffing, and workflow to meet operational demands

Manage ordering, inventory, and cost control to achieve financial targets and minimize waste

Ensure cleanliness, organization, and compliance with food safety, sanitation, and HACCP standards

Utilize computer and kitchen management systems for ordering, scheduling, and reporting

Leadership, Collaboration & Guest Engagement

Lead, train, and mentor pastry cooks, fostering creativity, technical skills, and team collaboration

Work cross-departmentally with culinary, banquet, and service teams to coordinate menu execution for events and outlets

Attend interdepartmental meetings, contributing to operational planning and innovation

Participate in occasional guest-facing culinary activations, such as pastry demonstrations or interactive classes, that align with the resorts brand and sustainability ethos

Salary & Benefits
Salary Range\: $70,000$80,000 annually, based on experience and qualifications

Hyatt Benefits Include\:

Annual allotment of free and discounted stays at Hyatt hotels worldwide

Well-being benefits including complimentary Headspace subscription and tuition reimbursement

Global family assistance policy, with paid leave for birth/adoption and adoption financial support

Paid Time Off

Medical, Dental, Vision, and 401(k) with company match after 30 days of employment

Alila Ventana Big Sur Colleague Perks\:

Complimentary daily meals

Gas stipend for eligible candidates

Our Commitment to Diversity & Inclusion
Hyatt Hotels and Alila are equal opportunity employers. All qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.

Minimum of 35 years of progressive pastry leadership experience in a luxury hotel, resort, or fine-dining setting

Culinary degree or pastry certification preferred

Strong technical skills in pastry, baking, and dessert presentation, with creative flair and attention to detail

Proven ability to manage production for multiple outlets and large-scale events simultaneously

Solid knowledge of cost control, inventory management, and purchasing practices

Proficiency in Microsoft Office and basic kitchen management software

Excellent communication and interpersonal skills; able to work collaboratively across departments

Demonstrated experience incorporating seasonal, locally sourced ingredients into menu development

Ability to perform effectively under pressure and tight timelines

Commitment to environmental stewardship and alignment with Alila Ventana Big Surs sustainability practices

Physical Requirements & Additional Qualifications

Ability to stand for extended periods in a high-temperature kitchen environment

Must be able to lift, carry, or move up to 50 pounds

Manual dexterity and visual acuity for precise pastry work and plating

Valid drivers license and reliable transportation required for commuting to Big Sur

Flexible schedule to meet business needs, including early mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays

Open to visa sponsorship for highly qualified candidates