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Chef Instructor, Pastry (Sur La Table) - job 1 of 4

With over 50 stores and the largest avocational cooking program in the US, Sur La Table offers an unsurpassed selection of exclusive and premium-quality goods for the kitchen and table – and the culinary expertise and inspiration to go along with it. Whether the job entails interacting with our customers, driving digital growth, or providing vital behind-the-scenes support, we’re all here for the same reason – to roll up our sleeves and create happiness through cooking and sharing good food.


The Chef Instructor, Pastry contributes to the success of a Sur La Table store by inspiring customers on all points of their culinary journey. The Chef Instructor blends culinary talent and teaching skills to support the Resident Chef in driving business results. The Chef Instructor reports to the Resident Chef.


Job Duties and Responsibilities
  • Models and directs employees to ensure customer service standards are met.
  • Delivers an exceptional cooking class experience at every class using recipes and game plans provided.
  • Stays informed by maintaining product knowledge, accesses available training and seeks out additional resources when necessary.
  • Ensures high standards of sanitation and cleanliness are maintained throughout the experience. Keeps work area and guest areas clean and organized.
  • Ensures all food items are cooked and served at the correct temperature and under sanitary conditions. 
  • Works as a part of a high-performing team to achieve store’s sales plan. Strives to achieve individual and/or class sales goals.
  • Models and ensures all Sur La Table policies and standard operating procedures (SOPs) are communicated effectively to employees, maintained and consistently followed.
  • Provides coaching in the moment and performance feedback to Kitchen Assistants and communicates performance issues directly to the Resident Chef.
  • Seeks opportunities to increase cooking class and retail sales.
  • Records time worked, accurately and according to SLT policy.
  • Anticipates and solves problems by taking decisive action, follows up with Resident Chef.
  • Demonstrates exceptional verbal and written communication skills with employees, customers, field management and corporate office.
  • May handle, serve, and pour liquor, wine and beer and/or mix ingredients, such as liquor, soda, water and etc. in order to prepare cocktails and other drinks.
  • Additional responsibilities as assigned by Resident Chef.


Essential Functions
  • Ability to communicate verbally and work cooperatively with employees and customers.
  • Ability to remain in a stationary position for up to 3 hours at a time.
  • Ability to move about the work place coaching and directing employees and/or class participants or while selling to customers.
  • Ability to distinguish, with a degree of accuracy, differences or similarities in intensity or quality of flavors or odors, or recognizing particular flavors or odors using tongue or nose.
  • Ability to grab, reach, push, pull, bend, stoop, kneel and crouch in order to demonstrate, retrieve and/or replenish merchandise and/or cooking equipment.
  • Ability to use hands to seize, hold, grasp, turn, or otherwise in order to chop, whisk, slice, stir, juice and/or demonstrate other techniques.
  • Ability to work a varied schedule in order to teach classes at different times of the day, week and year.
  • Ability to operate a computer, POS system, keyboards, merchandise scanners and mouse in order to accomplish work. 
  • Regular and predictable attendance. 
  • Ability to lift and/or move merchandise and/or kitchen equipment weighing up to 35 lbs. 
  • Environmental conditions:  working with an open flame and/or other heating units, and exposure to variation in kitchen temperature.


Experience and Required Qualifications
  • 1-2 Years kitchen operations experience.
  • Culinary degree in Pastry or equivalent experience considered in lieu of degree.
  • Demonstrated successful teaching and training experience.
  • Valid Food Handlers and/or Food Managers Certification.
  • Must be at least 21 years old.
  • Familiarity with MS Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook).
  • Proven ability to drive sales and motivate teams.
  • Proven communication skills.


Sur La Table Core Competencies for Everyone:
  • Focus on the Customer: You inspire and delight your customers.
  • Be Genuine: Your communication style is respectful, effective and sincere.
  • Make the Right Call: You effectively blend knowledge, experience, wisdom & decisive action.
  • Take Ownership: You are committed, responsible and provide solutions.
  • Achieve Results: You meet and exceed goals and expectations.


Pay Range
  • $17.00 - $19.17 per hour


This job description represents a summary of the job, not an exhaustive or comprehensive list of all possible job responsibilities, tasks, and duties. Responsibilities, tasks, and duties of the jobholder might differ from those outlined in the job description and other duties, as assigned, may be part of the job. This job description is not an employment agreement or contract. Sur La Table has the exclusive right to alter this job description at any time without notice.


The CSC family of brands provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, provincial, state or local laws. 

 

The CSC family of brands is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities in our job application procedures. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, please contact hrbenefits@cscshared.com

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Average salary estimate

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$33750K
$38000K

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What You Should Know About Chef Instructor, Pastry (Sur La Table), CSC Generation

Join Sur La Table as a Chef Instructor, Pastry in the beautiful city of Carlsbad, CA! We pride ourselves on creating happiness through cooking and sharing great food. As a Chef Instructor, you'll bring your culinary talent and teaching expertise to life, inspiring customers on their culinary journey. You'll deliver exceptional cooking classes, ensuring every recipe shines and every class exceeds expectations. Part of your role will involve working closely with our Resident Chef to drive business results while fostering a spirit of teamwork. From maintaining impeccable sanitation standards in the kitchen to coaching your team of Kitchen Assistants, your responsibilities will blend creativity with leadership. You'll have the chance to engage and communicate with our valued customers and colleagues, right across the store. And let's not forget the thrill of increasing cooking class sales while showing off your passion for pastry! If you've got a culinary degree in Pastry or equivalent experience and a knack for teaching, this is a fantastic opportunity to be part of a family that values its employees and supports their growth. At Sur La Table, we are committed to both your success and the joy of creating delicious experiences for everyone that walks through our doors. Come be a part of something special!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Chef Instructor, Pastry (Sur La Table) Role at CSC Generation
What are the main responsibilities of the Chef Instructor, Pastry at Sur La Table?

As a Chef Instructor, Pastry at Sur La Table, your primary responsibilities include delivering exceptional cooking classes, effectively communicating with team members and customers, maintaining high standards of sanitation, and coaching Kitchen Assistants. You'll also work closely with the Resident Chef to drive sales and inspire customers throughout their culinary journey.

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What qualifications do I need to become a Chef Instructor, Pastry at Sur La Table?

To become a Chef Instructor, Pastry at Sur La Table, you'll need a culinary degree in Pastry or equivalent experience. Ideally, you should have 1-2 years of kitchen operations experience, demonstrated teaching skills, and a valid Food Handlers or Food Managers Certification. Communication skills and a passion for cooking and teaching are essential.

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What kind of work environment can Chef Instructors, Pastry expect at Sur La Table?

At Sur La Table, Chef Instructors, Pastry enjoy a dynamic and collaborative work environment. You'll engage with customers, work as part of a high-performing team, and interact with fellow culinary enthusiasts. Expect a setting that values creativity and teamwork, where each day brings new opportunities to inspire others in their cooking adventures.

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How does Sur La Table support the development of Chef Instructor, Pastry employees?

Sur La Table is dedicated to the growth and development of its employees, including Chef Instructors, Pastry. You’ll have access to training resources and ongoing support from the Resident Chef, enabling you to enhance your culinary skills and teaching techniques. The company encourages you to grow within your role, contributing to both your success and the store’s sales goals.

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What skills will help me excel as a Chef Instructor, Pastry at Sur La Table?

To excel as a Chef Instructor, Pastry at Sur La Table, you should possess strong communication skills, a passion for baking and teaching, and the ability to motivate and inspire others. Being organized, having knowledge of culinary techniques, and understanding how to sell cooking classes will also significantly contribute to your success in this role.

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Common Interview Questions for Chef Instructor, Pastry (Sur La Table)
Can you describe your teaching philosophy as a Chef Instructor?

When answering this question, focus on your understanding of different learning styles and how you adapt your teaching methods to engage all students. Emphasize the importance of hands-on experiences and creating a supportive atmosphere that encourages questions and creativity.

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How do you ensure that food safety and cleanliness standards are met in the kitchen?

Highlight your knowledge of food safety regulations and practices. Discuss your approach to maintaining a clean workspace, such as regular checks, staff training on cleanliness, and leading by example to ensure that sanitation standards are adhered to during cooking classes.

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What experience do you have in creating class lesson plans?

Share examples of lesson plans you've developed for cooking classes. Discuss how you incorporate different culinary techniques and customer preferences, making sure to align your plans with the capabilities of your audience.

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How do you handle difficult students or negative situations in the classroom?

Discuss your strategies in addressing conflicts or difficulties, emphasizing communication, empathy, and adaptability. Provide an example of a past experience and how you resolved the situation while maintaining a positive classroom environment.

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Can you provide an example of how you've successfully driven sales in previous positions?

Share specific instances where you've taken initiative to improve sales, such as introducing promotional classes or enhancing the customer experience. Quantify your achievements when possible to demonstrate your impact on revenue generation.

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What pastry techniques are you most passionate about teaching?

Discuss specific pastry techniques, such as pastry dough making, cake decorating, or chocolate tempering, and explain why you find these techniques rewarding to teach. Share how you keep your lessons engaging and informative for students of different skill levels.

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How do you stay current with culinary trends and techniques as a Chef Instructor?

Talk about your methods for staying updated, such as attending workshops, following culinary influencers, or engaging in online forums. Stress the importance of continuous learning in providing the best cooking experience for your students.

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How do you foster a positive and inviting atmosphere in your cooking classes?

Share your strategies for creating an engaging classroom environment, which might include encouraging student participation, recognizing individual achievements, and fostering a sense of community among your students.

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What do you consider key metrics for success in your role as Chef Instructor?

Discuss various key performance indicators like customer satisfaction, class attendance, sales figures, and the quality of student engagement. Emphasize how you use these metrics to analyze and improve your teaching methods and class offerings.

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Why do you want to work for Sur La Table as Chef Instructor, Pastry?

Express your admiration for Sur La Table's commitment to culinary education and community engagement. Share how you align with their values and how you envision contributing to their mission of spreading joy through cooking and teaching.

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DATE POSTED
April 7, 2025

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