Lead Baker

Seasons Catering•Ventura, CA

About The Position

Seasons Catering's mission is where imagination and flavor have no boundaries. The Baker is responsible for leading all baking production for Seasons Catering while also executing select plated and higher-end desserts for events and tastings. This role works closely with the Executive Chef and Sous Chef to ensure consistent, high-quality baked goods for events, as well as refined dessert presentations when required. The ideal candidate is a strong, production-focused baker who is comfortable executing limited high-end and plated desserts for off-site events, client tastings, and special menus. This position balances efficiency, consistency, and creativity within a catering environment. This role is ideal for a baker who enjoys variety and event work. It is not a full pastry chef position focused on daily restaurant service or elaborate showpiece desserts. The emphasis is on consistent baking production with opportunities to execute refined desserts for select events.

Requirements

Professional kitchen etiquette and appearance
Comfortable using computers and digital tools to manage recipes, production planning, and communication.
Ability to multitask and stay organized in a fast-paced environment
Strong communication and team collaboration
Attention to detail in quality and presentation
Ability to work independently and take initiative
Familiarity with general kitchen equipment and baking tools
Must be able to read and follow recipes in English
Must maintain a positive, professional demeanor
Strong foundational baking skills with experience in high-volume or catering production
Comfortable executing plated desserts using established recipes and presentation standards
Understanding of desserts designed for off-site service and holding times
Ability to balance efficiency with elevated presentation when require

Responsibilities

Prepare baked goods in alignment with Seasons Catering’s standards and recipes.
Set up workstations with all ingredients and tools needed for daily production.
Follow and enforce food safety procedures including time/temperature controls and sanitation.
Maintain accurate labeling and storage practices for all pastry items.
Ensure allergen labeling and dietary needs are considered in all pastry production (gluten-free, nut-free, vegan, etc.).
Ensure quality control for all bakery production.
Maintain bakery workstation cleanliness and organization.
Train and support kitchen team in baking preparation standards.
Monitor ingredient levels and assist in ordering as needed.
Ensure proper handling and maintenance of baking/pastry tools and kitchen equipment.
Share ideas and suggestions to improve pastries and dessert offerings.
Assist in testing and sourcing new ingredients or tools that could elevate quality or efficiency.
Use a computer to plan production schedules, standardize recipes, and maintain digital records of pastry documentation.
Provide updated recipes, prep guides, and notes for kitchen team members via digital platforms in a shared database.
Provide input on client tastings when pastry is a key part of the menu.
Prepare and plate pastry items on site, ensuring freshness and quality.
Support event staff and kitchen team as needed during service.
Maintain high presentation standards for all dessert items.
Adhere to health department regulations and food safety at all times.
Perform other pastry or kitchen duties as assigned.
Lead high-volume baking production including breads, rolls, cookies, bars, cakes, and event desserts.
Execute plated desserts and select higher-end dessert components for off-site events, tastings, and special menus.
Prepare desserts designed for transport, off-site service, and event execution, maintaining quality and presentation.
Assist in developing streamlined, scalable dessert options suitable for catering production.
Support wedding and premium events with refined but limited-scope pastry execution (no extensive sugar or chocolate showpiece work required).
Perform other pastry or kitchen duties as assigned.