Pastry Assistant

About Dandelion Chocolate

Dandelion Chocolate is a bean-to-bar chocolate maker located in San Francisco’s Mission District. Our chocolates are crafted using just two ingredients—cocoa beans and cane sugar. We frequently visit cocoa origins to foster genuine, trusting partnerships with producers who grow and ferment our beans. Each chocolate bar begins with the bean, and we are currently seeking a Pastry Assistant at our 16th Street Factory to enhance our San Francisco cafes by showcasing our single-origin chocolate in drinks and pastries.

Job Overview

As a Pastry Assistant, you will be involved in preparing and producing baked goods and beverages centered around the unique flavor profiles of our cocoa beans. The recipes are continuously evolving under the guidance of Executive Pastry Chef Lisa Vega (former Gary Danko chef). Your daily tasks will include making batches of drinks and pastries, starting early and ending with preparing doughs and batters for the next day. This full-time position requires working 40 hours per week, including weekends, with shifts from 4:30 am to 1:00 pm or 7:00 am to 3:30 pm. The role begins at $26 per hour and involves contributing to a creative, organized, and positive team environment. We encourage applicants who intend to commit for a minimum of one year.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare batters, doughs, cakes, and ganaches for hot chocolates to meet daily customer demands, enjoying the repetitive nature of production.
• Complete daily production assignments accurately and efficiently.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization in the kitchen in compliance with hygiene and safety protocols.
• Serve as a cooperative team member by taking on various tasks such as sweeping floors, washing dishes, and lifting heavy items, while communicating effectively and asking clarifying questions when necessary.
• Perform additional duties as required to support kitchen operations.

Candidate Profile

• Availability for full-time work (35+ hours per week) including weekends, with preference for flexible scheduling.
• Minimum of one year’s experience in pastry production.
• Strong enthusiasm for chocolate and pastry arts.
• Highly detail-oriented and proactive, ensuring quality without taking shortcuts.
• Positive and energetic demeanor, fostering teamwork and minimizing workplace conflict.
• Physically capable of performing repetitive tasks and standing for extended periods.

Benefits and Perks

Beyond an extensive chocolate education, team members receive substantial support in health and wellness including heavily subsidized medical, vision, and dental plans. Additional benefits include participation options in a 401k program, paid vacation, holiday and sick leave, commuter benefits, flexible spending accounts, chocolate tasting activities, and opportunities for personal and professional growth within the company.