Authentic Neapolitan Pizza Chef (Pizzaiolo)
Location: Mercado Food Hall Mission/McAllen, TX
Job Type: Full-Time
Pay: $15.00 $25.00+ per hour (Based on experience)
About Mercado Food Hall
Mercado Food Hall is home to locally inspired culinary concepts that celebrate quality, creativity, and exceptional guest experiences. We are seeking a passionate and experienced Neapolitan Pizza Chef (Pizzaiolo) who takes pride in traditional techniques and is committed to producing authentic, high-quality pizzas with consistency and precision.
If you have a passion for handcrafted dough, wood-fired cooking, and authentic Italian pizza making, we'd love to meet you.
Position Summary
As our Pizzaiolo, you will be responsible for preparing authentic Neapolitan-style pizzas from start to finish. This includes dough production, fermentation management, ingredient preparation, operating a high-temperature brick oven, and maintaining exceptional quality during service. The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced kitchen while maintaining attention to detail and consistency.
Essential ResponsibilitiesDough Production & Fermentation
- Prepare authentic Neapolitan pizza dough from scratch using traditional fermentation methods.
- Monitor hydration, proofing, fermentation, and dough quality daily.
- Stretch dough by hand while preserving proper structure and texture.
Pizza Preparation
- Prepare and portion fresh ingredients according to recipes and quality standards.
- Assemble pizzas with consistency, presentation, and attention to authentic techniques.
- Ensure every pizza meets company quality expectations before serving.
Brick Oven Operation
- Operate and maintain a high-temperature wood-fired or gas-fired brick oven.
- Monitor oven temperatures and baking times to achieve authentic Neapolitan results (approximately 90-second bake time).
- Manage oven workflow efficiently during high-volume service.
Kitchen Operations
- Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary workstation.
- Follow all food safety, sanitation, and health department regulations.
- Assist with inventory management and communicate ingredient needs.
- Minimize food waste through proper preparation and storage techniques.
Teamwork
- Collaborate with kitchen staff to ensure smooth and efficient service.
- Communicate effectively during busy shifts.
- Help maintain a positive, professional, and respectful work environment.
Qualifications
- Previous experience as a Pizzaiolo, Pizza Chef, or Brick Oven Pizza Cook preferred.
- Strong understanding of authentic Neapolitan dough preparation, fermentation, hydration, and baking techniques.
- Experience operating wood-fired or gas-fired brick ovens.
- Ability to multitask in a fast-paced, high-temperature kitchen.
- Excellent attention to detail and commitment to consistency.
- Dependable with strong work ethic and punctuality.
- Food Handler Certification (or ability to obtain upon hire).
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with VPN (Verace Pizza Napoletana) standards or authentic Italian pizza preparation.
- Culinary training or equivalent restaurant experience.
- Passion for traditional Italian cuisine and continuous learning.
Physical Requirements
- Stand for extended periods throughout the shift.
- Lift up to 50 pounds.
- Work safely in a hot kitchen environment.
- Perform repetitive motions including stretching dough, lifting trays, and operating kitchen equipment.