Description:
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, Alila's sustainability values, and the resort's 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 resort's 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.
Qualifications:
· Minimum of 3-5 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 Sur's 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 driver's 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
Primary Location: US-CA-Big Sur
Organization: Ventana Big Sur, An Alila Resort
Pay Basis: Yearly
Job Level: Full-time
Job: Culinary
Req ID: BIG000855
Hyatt is an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy, national origin, ancestry, age, religion, disability, veteran status, genetic information, citizenship status or any other group protected by law.
