Company Overview
Market Fresh is Guelph’s premier independent gourmet grocer focused on local producers and products. We have been in operation for over 20 years and pride ourselves on offering exceptional customer service and quality food. Our full-service grocery store includes a scratch bakery, butcher shop, deli, commercial kitchen, Gourmet to Go Cafe, full kitchen, garden centre and giftware area. Market Fresh is a celebration of fine food—making us a destination shopping experience for community members and visitors. Our MF in the Community program seeks to raise awareness and funding for local not-for-profit programs and charities aligned to our mission to buy local, be local, support local.
Position Summary
The Pastry Cook & Cake Decorator is responsible for producing high-quality pastries, desserts, cakes, and specialty baked goods that reflect Market Fresh's commitment to quality, craftsmanship, and exceptional customer experience. This role combines scratch baking with cake decorating and finishing techniques, ensuring products are visually appealing, consistently executed, and ready for retail display.
We are seeking an experienced pastry professional with a minimum of 3 years of commercial bakery or pastry experience and demonstrated cake decorating skills. The ideal candidate is highly organized, takes pride in their work, and demonstrates professionalism and initiative.
Job Structure
This is a full-time, hourly position. The work schedule includes weekends and holidays as required. Paid vacation accrual is provided at 4%. A health insurance plan is available after 6 months of full-time employment. Shifts are primarily daytime shifts beginning at approximately 8:00 a.m.
Responsibilities
- Prepare and bake pastries, desserts, cakes, and other baked goods from scratch using high-quality ingredients and store-approved recipes.
- Decorate and finish cakes, cupcakes, pastries, and specialty desserts using a variety of techniques.
- Create custom and specialty cake orders that meet customer expectations and Market Fresh quality standards.
- Maintain exceptional standards for product presentation, consistency, and attention to detail.
- Follow daily production schedules and manage time effectively to meet customer demand and department goals.
- Assist with developing new products and seasonal features.
- Monitor inventory levels and assist with ordering, receiving, and controlling ingredient usage.
- Ensure consistent product quality, portion control, labeling accuracy, and proper product rotation.
- Maintain cleanliness and sanitation of all equipment, utensils, and work areas.
- Comply with all food safety, sanitation, and health regulations.
- Support, mentor, and collaborate with team members while contributing to a positive and professional bakery culture.
- Demonstrate accountability, and initiative with a willingness to take on additional responsibilities as the position and department grows.
Qualifications
Education and Training
- Formal culinary or pastry education is preferred.
Skills and Experience
- Minimum 3 years of professional experience in a commercial bakery, pastry shop, cake studio, or high-volume food production environment.
- Demonstrated cake decorating experience is required. A portfolio or examples of previous work are considered an asset.
- Strong knowledge of scratch baking, pastry production, cake finishing, and decorating techniques.
- Ability to work independently, prioritize tasks, and maintain high standards in a fast-paced environment.
- Interest in developing professionally and taking on increased responsibilities within the bakery department.
- Ability to work mornings, weekends, and holidays as required.
- Ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 30-40 lbs.
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Pay: $20.00-$22.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Company events
- Dental care
- Employee assistance program
- Extended health care
- On-site parking
- Store discount
- Vision care
Application question(s):
- What motivated you to apply for this position, and how does it align with your career goals?
Work Location: In person