Job Title: Pastry Chef (Bread Baker)
Reports To: Executive Chef
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt 
Effective Date:  September 3, 2025

White Oak conserves and sustains some of the earth's rarest wild animals through innovative training, research, education, and conservation breeding programs that contribute to the survival of wildlife in nature.  The conservation programs span 600 acres along the St. Mary’s River in northeast Florida, surrounded by 17,000 acres of mixed forest and wetlands that make up the beautiful White Oak property.  Founded in 1982, White Oak leads professional efforts to improve veterinary care, develop holistic animal management techniques, and better understand the biology of critically endangered species by providing excellent care and managing conservation programs for over 30 species of imperiled wildlife in large, naturalistic habitats.  

Position Purpose: 

Responsible for the preparation of high-quality baked items/food in a timely, efficient, sanitary and consistent manner. Must be prepared to work as a team member in a dynamic workplace, follow all safety procedures, and have a high threshold for heat in a kitchen environment.

Responsibilities and Tasks:

•    Responsible for the daily preparation of food items and baked items as directed in a sanitary and timely manner according to guidelines.

•    Prepares, mixes, kneads, shapes, and bakes various types of bread and other baked goods according to recipes.

•    Create new bread recipes, experimenting with different techniques, and maintaing product quality

•    Follows recipes, portion controls and presentation specifications as set by Executive Chef.
•    Assists with the restocking of items as needed throughout shift.
•    Ensure quality and safely of food by performing standard and any additional sanitary measures including sweeping floors, cleaning of surfaces as well as proper covering and storage of food items according to standards and procedures.
•    Stay productive at all times and prepare baked items/food for our future needs as time allows.
•    Assists with the cleaning and organization of the walk-in coolers and our storage areas, to include organizing the small-wares.
•    Assists in the preparation of dishes for guests with food allergies or intolerances.
•    Work at an efficient and consistent pace.
•    Perform other duties as required.

Qualifications:

•    Must have high school diploma or GED equivalent.
•    Minimum of 3 years baking experience in a commercial kitchen required.

•    Ability to develop new bread products and experiment with new techniques.
•    Highly effective team-work skills.
•    Highly effective communication skills.
•    The ability to work a flexible schedule.
•    Attention to detail in all areas.
•    Strong time management skills and multi-tasking skills.
•    The ability to prioritize tasks with minimal supervision.

Special Working Conditions:

•    Must have valid drivers’ license
•    Must be able to exert up to 50 pounds of force to lift, push, pull, carry, or otherwise move objects, stand for long periods of time
•    Must be able to assist with maintaining a garden

White Oak Conservation is committed to creating an environment where diverse perspectives are welcome, and to nurturing a culture where everyone feels valued and appreciated. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to gender, race, color, age, national origin, religion, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, citizenship, pregnancy or maternity, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable national, federal, state, or local law.