Cocoa Asante Chocolatier | Kitchen Associate (FT) Chattanooga, TN · Full time

Apply for Chocolatier | Kitchen Associate (FT)

Position Type: Part-Time Non-Exempt            

Reports To: Head Chocolatier            

Location: Chattanooga, On-Site

Company 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 Asante’s 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 standards
• Perform functions related to food preparation and inventory control in line with company policy
• Oversee quality control to ensure all products meet standards for size, shape, texture, and taste
• Ensure production schedule meets customer and business requirements
• Create new recipes and assist in the development of seasonal flavors and designs
• Prepare ganache, fillings, and other chocolate components
• Clean and polish chocolate molds for production
• Operate, maintain, and clean chocolate-making machines
• Monitor and adjust production processes to ensure consistency
• Follow all health department regulations and sanitation practices
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of the kitchen to uphold sanitation and safety standards
• Document production activities, including quantities produced and quality checks performed
• Train and mentor junior team members in production techniques and best practices
• Inspect all finished products for quality assurance to ensure they meet Cocoa Asante’s exacting standards
• Proactively communicate with team members to ensure seamless coordination across production, packaging, and order fulfillment
• Perform other duties as assigned to support the overall success of production and operations
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Schedule & Compensation:

This is a full-time position with hours varying between 30-40 hours per week. During peak seasons such as Valentine’s Day, Easter, Mother’s Day, and the Holidays, this position is eligible for overtime hours and pay.

Pay: $15 - $16/hr, depending on experience. Employees receive an annual pay raise.

Benefits:

• Health, Dental, Vision Insurance
• Life Insurance
• Annual Pay Raise

Education & 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 accurately
• Experience in chocolate making, pastry, or baking is highly preferred

Skills & Characteristics:

• Strong attention to detail
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Time management and ability to manage daily production lists
• Strong problem-solving skills to address production challenges
• Commitment to food safety and sanitation standards
• Leadership qualities and ability to mentor others
• Positive attitude and professional demeanor
• Creative mindset with a passion for continuous learning
• Flexible and adaptable in a fast-paced environment
• Strong organizational skills and ability to keep workstations clean and efficient

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds
• Ability to perform repetitive tasks for extended periods
• Ability to stand, walk, and bend for long periods
• Must have the stamina to work in a physically demanding kitchen environment