Chocolatier | Kitchen Associate (FT)

Position Type: Part-Time Non-Exempt             Reports To: Head Chocolatier             Location: Chattanooga, On-SiteCompany Overview:Cocoa Asante is a luxury bean-to-bar chocolate company that sources single-origin cocoa beans ethically from our home country Ghana and processes them sustainably in the United States. Our goal is to source directly from our family farm in Ghana, making us the only mainland US company that operates as a vertically integrated chocolate company.Our ultimate vision is to help create a more sustainable, ethical, and equitable chocolate industry. At Cocoa Asante, we foster a collaborative and supportive environment where every team member is valued and empowered to contribute to our mission.Job Overview:The Cocoa Asante Chocolatier will be responsible for all aspects of producing our handcrafted chocolate bars, bonbons, and teas. This role requires someone who embraces the exactness and precision of chocolate making, while demonstrating creativity in developing new recipes and designs. The ideal candidate will work independently, exhibit leadership qualities, and maintain high production standards.The ideal candidate will take ownership of their role, actively contribute to process improvements, and mentor junior staff to uphold Cocoa Asante's commitment to excellence. This role involves adhering to established SOPs to ensure product quality and consistency across all stages of production. It requires meticulous attention to detail to uphold Cocoa Asantes high standards for quality and presentation. Candidates should embrace continuous learning and strive for excellence in all tasks.Key Responsibilities:Produce chocolate bars, bonbons, and teas in accordance with company recipes and standardsPerform functions related to food preparation and inventory control in line with company policyOversee quality control to ensure all products meet standards for size, shape, texture, and tasteEnsure production schedule meets customer and business requirementsCreate new recipes and assist in the development of seasonal flavors and designsPrepare ganache, fillings, and other chocolate componentsClean and polish chocolate molds for productionOperate, maintain, and clean chocolate-making machinesMonitor and adjust production processes to ensure consistencyFollow all health department regulations and sanitation practicesMaintain cleanliness and organization of the kitchen to uphold sanitation and safety standardsDocument production activities, including quantities produced and quality checks performedTrain and mentor junior team members in production techniques and best practicesInspect all finished products for quality assurance to ensure they meet Cocoa Asantes exacting standardsProactively communicate with team members to ensure seamless coordination across production, packaging, and order fulfillmentPerform other duties as assigned to support the overall success of production and operationsSchedule & Compensation:This is a full-time position with hours varying between 30-40 hours per week. During peak seasons such as Valentines Day, Easter, Mothers Day, and the Holidays, this position is eligible for overtime hours and pay.Pay: $18-19/hr, depending on experience.Benefits:Health, Dental, Vision InsuranceLife InsuranceFlexible PTO/Sick Leave PolicyAnnual Pay Raise pending company performanceEducation & Experience:At least 1 year of experience in a professional kitchen (restaurant, bakery, back-of-house, hotel, etc.)Must be able to read and execute recipes accuratelyExperience in chocolate making, pastry, or baking is highly preferredSkills & Characteristics:Strong attention to detailAbility to work independently and as part of a teamTime management and ability to manage daily production listsStrong problem-solving skills to address production challengesCommitment to food safety and sanitation standardsLeadership qualities and ability to mentor othersPositive attitude and professional demeanorCreative mindset with a passion for continuous learningFlexible and adaptable in a fast-paced environmentStrong organizational skills and ability to keep workstations clean and efficientPhysical Requirements:Ability to lift and carry up to 50 poundsAbility to perform repetitive tasks for extended periodsAbility to stand, walk, and bend for long periodsMust have the stamina to work in a physically demanding kitchen environment
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