About Choice Hotels

Choice Hotels International, Inc. (NYSE: CHH) stands as one of the largest lodging franchisors worldwide, with over 7,400 hotels and more than 625,000 rooms across 45 countries. As a leader in midscale, extended stay, and upscale segments, Choice Hotels offers a diverse portfolio of 22 brands, including beloved names like Comfort Inn, Quality Inn, Radisson, Radisson Blu, Radisson RED, Park Plaza, and Country Inn & Suites by Radisson. This extensive network meets every traveler's needs, from economy stays to full-service upper upscale properties. The award-winning Choice Privileges loyalty program enhances guest experiences with fast rewards and personalized perks. At Choice Hotels, our cultural values—Welcome and Respect Everyone, Be Bold, Be Quick, Listen, Be Curious, and Show Integrity—drive loyalty, growth, and the true hospitality spirit. Our managed hotels, including premium Radisson brands, deliver exceptional service and genuine hospitality.

Role Overview

The Pastry Chef III position at Choice Hotels in Chicago, Illinois, is a pivotal role within our managed Radisson Blu property. This hourly position, paying $26.00 per hour, oversees all pastry operations, ensuring the creation of high-quality, seasonal desserts that elevate the dining experience. Reporting to the Executive Chef, you will craft signature pastries, manage inventory, maintain stringent food safety standards, and collaborate across departments to support banquets, restaurants, and bars. Beyond culinary expertise, this role emphasizes leadership in employee engagement, recruitment, training, and delivering 100% guest satisfaction through the Radisson Blu experience of genuine hospitality and exceeding expectations.

Key Responsibilities

As Pastry Chef III, your daily duties include supervising and participating in pastry and dessert preparation, developing innovative menus for baked items, and relaying kitchen feedback to management. You will inspect orders for quality, create signature desserts with Executive Chef approval, and prepare food to uphold premium standards. Inventory management is crucial: inspect deliveries, recommend stock levels, store food to minimize waste, and assist in quarterly counts. Ensure compliance with Choice Hotels, local, and state health policies. Coordinate with other departments for efficient kitchen operations, manage staffing for high-volume events, and resolve guest complaints swiftly. Drive employee engagement through training, coaching, performance feedback, and action plans that foster teamwork and Yes I Can! service.

Qualifications & Requirements

Ideal candidates bring proven experience in high-volume pastry production, menu development, and team supervision within upscale hospitality settings. Proficiency in food safety, hygiene, and quality control is essential, alongside strong inventory and waste management skills. Leadership abilities are key: recruit, train, and develop talent while communicating performance expectations and providing coaching. Familiarity with seasonal menu creation, signature dessert innovation, and banquet coordination is required. A passion for guest satisfaction, quick response to special requests, and alignment with Choice Hotels' cultural values will set you apart. Relevant culinary certifications and experience in Radisson or similar brands are highly valued.

Benefits & Perks

Choice Hotels prioritizes employee well-being with competitive perks starting day one. Enjoy benefits from your first shift, discounted parking at just $8 per day, and a free daily meal to fuel your creativity. Take advantage of discounted room rates across Choice Hotels brands like Comfort Inn, Quality Inn, and Radisson properties worldwide—perfect for travel-loving team members. Savor percentage off dining at Firelake restaurant. After 30 days, unlock a full benefits package on the 1st of the following month, including comprehensive health coverage. These perks support work-life balance while immersing you in the hospitality world.

Career Growth

At Choice Hotels, career advancement is a reality. As Pastry Chef III, you'll gain hands-on leadership experience, positioning you for roles like Executive Chef or Food & Beverage Director. Our focus on employee development includes training resources, performance coaching, and engagement strategies. With a global portfolio spanning Comfort Inn, Quality Inn, Radisson, and more, opportunities abound for relocation, brand specialization, or upscale management. We invest in your growth to achieve hotel and corporate goals, fostering loyalty and long-term success in the dynamic hospitality industry.

Why Join Choice Hotels

Choosing Choice Hotels means joining a challenger brand that's redefining hospitality. Work in Chicago's vibrant scene at a premier Radisson Blu, crafting desserts that delight guests while enjoying hotel employee discounts on stays and dining. Our commitment to 100% guest satisfaction, cultural values, and employee engagement creates a supportive environment. Be part of a team that powers over 625,000 rooms worldwide, driving innovation in midscale to upscale lodging. With brands like Comfort Inn for reliable comfort, Quality Inn for value, and Radisson for luxury, you'll contribute to diverse traveler experiences. Premium pay, immediate benefits, and growth opportunities make this the ideal step for ambitious pastry professionals.

Role FAQs

Q: What is the pay rate for Pastry Chef III? A: This is an hourly role at $26.00 per hour.
Q: Are benefits available immediately? A: Yes, benefits start on day one, with full package after 30 days.
Q: What brands does Choice Hotels manage? A: Including Radisson Blu, Radisson, Quality Inn, Comfort Inn, and more.
Q: Is experience in upscale hotels required? A: Yes, high-volume pastry experience in hospitality is essential.
Q: How does Choice support employee growth? A: Through training, coaching, recruitment involvement, and engagement action plans.
Q: What perks include hotel discounts? A: Discounted room rates across all Choice Hotels brands and dining discounts.