Pastry Chefs/Bakers

CJ’s Restaurant is hiring experienced and passionate Pastry Chefs and Bakers to join its dynamic culinary team. This is a fantastic opportunity for individuals seeking baking jobs in Kenya or career opportunities in pastry and confectionery production within one of the country’s leading hospitality brands. If you love baking and thrive in a fast-paced kitchen environment, this role is for you.

Key Job Information

• Position: Pastry Chefs / Bakers
• Location: Nairobi, Kenya
• Employment Type: Full-Time
• Experience Level: Mid-Level to Senior
• Application Deadline: July 9, 2025

About CJ’s Restaurant

CJ’s is a top-tier restaurant chain in Kenya known for its exceptional dining experiences, expansive menu offerings, and vibrant ambiance. With multiple branches across Nairobi and other cities, CJ’s serves a variety of cuisines and prides itself on culinary innovation and outstanding customer service.

As a company committed to excellence, CJ’s provides a collaborative work environment, consistent skill development, and room for career growth. Employees are valued as the heart of the brand, and each team member plays a crucial role in delivering culinary and service excellence. If you’re interested in careers at CJ’s that blend creativity with professionalism, this is the place to be.

Job Description

The Pastry Chef/Baker is responsible for overseeing and executing all bakery and pastry production tasks. From preparing dough to baking and decorating, the role involves working with precision, creativity, and consistency to maintain CJ’s high quality standards. You will lead or support a team of bakers and ensure hygiene, presentation, and productivity remain top-notch.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare and bake a wide variety of bakery items including bread, pastries, croissants, cakes, and other specialty baked goods.
• Follow standardized recipes and adjust ingredients to achieve desired textures, flavors, and presentation.
• Check ingredient quality, monitor equipment functionality, and troubleshoot any baking inconsistencies.
• Measure, mix, knead, shape, and bake dough accurately and consistently.
• Apply glazes, icings, fillings, and decorative elements to enhance the appearance and taste of baked products.
• Ensure all pastries meet quality and aesthetic standards before display or service.
• Maintain accurate inventory of ingredients and baking supplies; restock as needed.
• Clean and sanitize baking areas, equipment, and utensils regularly to ensure hygiene and food safety.
• Adhere to food safety regulations, company quality controls, and internal SOPs (Standard Operating Procedures).
• Ensure daily compliance with HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points) procedures by all kitchen staff.
• Train and supervise junior bakers where required, fostering a teamwork-oriented environment.
• Maintain personal hygiene and uphold CJ’s grooming and presentation standards.

Required Qualifications

• Diploma or Certificate in Pastry Arts, Baking Technology, Culinary Arts, or a related discipline.
• 2+ years of experience in a commercial bakery, hotel kitchen, or restaurant pastry section.
• Strong knowledge of baking techniques, kitchen safety, and recipe adaptation.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working in a high-volume production kitchen or a chain restaurant.
• Hands-on knowledge of food handling regulations and HACCP compliance.
• Creativity in pastry decoration and product development.

Key Skills and Competencies

• Attention to detail and commitment to quality presentation.
• Excellent time management and the ability to work under pressure.
• Good organizational and multitasking abilities.
• Team leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Physical stamina and readiness for long shifts in a standing position.

Benefits and Career Development

As part of the CJ’s team, you will enjoy:

• Competitive salary and performance incentives
• Opportunities to innovate and create new pastry items
• Structured training and mentorship from seasoned chefs
• Career advancement into supervisory or head baker roles
• Staff meals and workplace discounts
• A positive, supportive, and high-energy work culture

How to Apply

Ready to advance your baking career with one of Kenya’s most respected restaurant brands? Send your application with the subject line “Pastry Chef/Baker Application – CJ’s” no later than July 9, 2025.

Your application should include:

• Updated CV
• Cover Letter explaining your suitability for the role
• Relevant culinary certificates and references

Looking for bakery jobs in Nairobi, hotel pastry chef roles, or food production jobs in Kenya? CJ’s offers a platform to showcase your creativity, grow professionally, and be part of a team that takes pride in excellence.