About the role
Pizzaiolo
Mandarin Oriental Cristallo, Cortina is an upcoming luxury alpine resort set above the iconic mountain town of Cortina d'Ampezzo, in the heart of the UNESCO-listed Dolomites. Scheduled to open in Winter 2026, the resort will mark the debut of Mandarin Oriental in one of Italy's most renowned mountain destinations, combining the legendary heritage of the Cristallo with Mandarin Oriental's exceptional service, refined design, and award-winning hospitality.
The resort will feature elegantly appointed rooms and suites, exceptional dining experiences, a world-class Spa & Wellness Centre, and curated year-round experiences designed for discerning international travellers seeking the finest alpine luxury.
Joining the pre-opening team offers a unique opportunity to help shape one of Europe's most anticipated luxury hotel openings, contributing to the creation of an extraordinary guest experience from day one.
About the Role
Based at Mandarin Oriental Cristallo, Cortina, the Pizzaiolo plays an important role in the successful pre-opening and ongoing operation of the resort's culinary division. The role is responsible for the preparation and production of high-quality pizza, from dough preparation and fermentation through baking and presentation, ensuring consistency and excellence in accordance with Mandarin Oriental standards.
As a Pizzaiolo, you will be responsible for the following duties
Pre-Opening Responsibilities
- Support the setup and operational readiness of the pizza section prior to opening.
- Assist with recipe development, dough testing, ingredient selection and menu tastings.
- Participate in mock services, operational trials and pre-opening training.
- Ensure ovens, equipment, utensils and workstations are correctly prepared and maintained.
- Support the implementation of food safety, hygiene and HACCP procedures.
Operational Responsibilities
- Prepare pizza dough, manage fermentation and produce pizzas according to approved recipes and quality standards.
- Operate and maintain pizza ovens safely and effectively.
- Ensure consistency in dough, cooking, taste, presentation and portion control.
- Prepare and organise all ingredients and mise en place required for service.
- Monitor ingredient quality, stock levels, storage and rotation.
- Maintain the highest standards of cleanliness, food safety and workstation organisation.
- Minimise waste and support food cost control through efficient ingredient utilisation.
- Collaborate with the wider culinary team to ensure smooth and timely service.
- Support junior colleagues and share technical knowledge when required.
- Perform any other reasonable duties assigned by senior culinary leadership.
Requirements
- Proven professional experience as a Pizzaiolo in a high-quality restaurant, luxury hotel or comparable hospitality environment.
- Strong knowledge of dough preparation, fermentation, shaping and pizza baking techniques.
- Experience with professional pizza ovens and high-volume service.
- Knowledge of high-quality ingredients and traditional and contemporary pizza preparation.
- Good understanding of food safety, hygiene and HACCP standards.
- Strong organisational skills and ability to work under pressure.
- Attention to detail, consistency and passion for product quality.
- Positive attitude and strong teamwork skills.
- Good command of Italian; English is considered an advantage.