Pastry Cook

Join Our Pastry Team at Catering by Michaels

At Catering by Michaels, we believe an event is more than food on a plate. Every dessert we produce is part of a larger experience that guests remember long after the event ends.

Founded in 1980, Catering by Michaels is a full-service catering and events company based in Morton Grove, Illinois. We produce events across Chicago and the surrounding suburbs, combining culinary craftsmanship with precise execution. Our pastry team plays a critical role in delivering that standard.

We are looking for a Pastry Decorator and Baker who takes pride in detail, consistency, and presentation.

About Catering by Michaels

We have built our reputation as a leading Chicago catering and events company by focusing on quality and accountability.

• Scratch kitchen with all desserts produced in house
• Sustainability leader; We are certified by both Green Restaurant and Green Seal
• Experience executing high-profile events including Lollapalooza, the NFL Draft, LIV Golf, and the Black Creativity Gala
• Preferred caterer at many of Chicago’s most recognized venues

We are not just producing desserts. We are contributing to a complete event experience.

Position: Pastry Decorator and Baker
Location: Morton Grove, Illinois
Reports To: Executive Pastry Chef and Pastry Sous Chef

Why This Role Matters

The pastry department is responsible for finishing an event on a high note. Presentation, precision, and consistency are essential. Every item must meet our standards before it leaves the kitchen.

This role requires focus, discipline, and pride in execution.

Key Responsibilities

• Hand decorate cookies and pastries with precision and consistency
• Work with chocolate, piping, and fine pastry techniques to elevate presentation
• Prepare pastries and other sweets according to established recipes and quality standards
• Operate mixers, ovens, scales, and other baking equipment safely and efficiently
• Accurately scale and interpret recipes, making adjustments as directed by the Executive Pastry Chef
• Maintain strict standards of sanitation, safety, and cleanliness in all pastry areas
• Attend team meetings for training, development, and production updates
• Support event production and high-volume holiday schedules as needed

What You Bring

• At least 1 year of professional baking experience in a high-quality kitchen
• Strong hand decorating and piping skills. Candidates may be asked to complete a piping exercise during the interview process or participate in a paid stage.
• Ability to manage time effectively and handle multiple tasks at once
• Comfort working in a fast-paced, production-driven environment
• Open availability to meet business needs, including early mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays
  • Staff can pick up extra hours at catering events throughout the year
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to consistency

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift and carry 50 pounds regularly and up to 100 pounds occasionally
• Ability to stand for extended periods, up to 4 hours at a time
• Comfortable working in varying temperatures including cold storage and hot kitchen environments
• Ability to bend, kneel, reach, and squat frequently throughout a shift
• Strong sense of taste and smell for quality control

Work Environment

This is a fast-paced catering and production kitchen based in Morton Grove, supporting events throughout Chicago. The pace increases significantly during peak seasons and holidays. Accuracy, cleanliness, and teamwork are expected at all times.

Why Work With Catering by Michaels

We have been doing this since 1980 because we care about doing it right. Our team takes pride in the details, from the first prep step to the final presentation.

Our pastry team is growing to meet the growing demands and to implement new recipes, ingredients, and increase quality.

If you are serious about pastry, value high standards, and want to be part of a team that creates meaningful event experiences, this is an opportunity to grow your craft in a disciplined and professional environment.

Apply today to join a catering and events team that values precision, consistency, and execution.