Pizzaiolo: job description, salary, training

In the hospitality industry, a Pizzaiolo, also known as a Chef Pizzaiolo, is the traditional Italian term for a Pizza Chef, Pizza Cook, or Pizza Maker, and is responsible for every aspect of pizza making in a restaurant, hotel, takeaway, or catering service. In the UK, where pizzas are incredibly popular, many establishments within the industry offer a variety of pizzas. Some specialize in traditional, Italian-style pizzas, often featuring wood-fired or stone oven-baked options with organic ingredients and thinner crusts.

If you’re a Pizzaiolo seeking new opportunities, whether it's for short or long-term assignments, or planning the next step in your career, Brigad can provide insight into job descriptions, salary ranges, and mission offers across the UK.

What is a Pizzaiolo ?

A Pizzaiolo, also known as a Pizza Chef, Pizza Cook, or Pizza Maker, has a focused role in the kitchen, dedicated to pizza-making. This role varies depending on the establishment. 

In kitchens where pizza is the main dish, a Pizzaiolo may lead a small team. In restaurants where pizza is a popular choice among a broader menu, the Pizzaiolo is solely responsible for the pizza line.

The style of pizza, particularly if it adheres to traditional Neapolitan methods—originating from Naples, a city renowned for modern pizza—can influence the setup. 

For instance, a dedicated pizza oven might be used, which is crucial for achieving the authentic Naples style.

The equipment used significantly impacts the style and quality of the pizzas. Restaurants specializing in Naples-style pizzas often attract health-conscious customers, as these pizzas are typically less fatty and doughy compared to standard takeaway options

What does a Pizzaiolo do ?

Pizzaiolos, also known as Pizza Chefs, Pizza Cooks, or Pizza Makers, share the same fundamental job: crafting high-quality pizzas. They are involved in every step of pizza preparation, from making sauces like tomato and cheese to chopping fresh ingredients, pre-cooking certain toppings like meats and eggs, and finally cooking and plating the pizza.

A skilled Pizzaiolo not only prepares the pizzas but also often takes charge of menu planning, sourcing the right ingredients, and ensuring careful cooking practices, especially for customers with allergies such as gluten or wheat intolerance. Maintaining a clean and hygienic section in a fast-paced kitchen environment is also part of their responsibility.

Expertise in cooking Italian wood-fired pizzas is a key skill, with some using traditional Italian wood-fired ovens and others employing smart or manual countertop pizza ovens. They meticulously prepare everything from the crust to the toppings.

In establishments where pizzas are the primary or exclusive offering, the Pizzaiolo plays a central role, efficiently handling orders and often becoming the star chef during busy periods.

What qualities define a Pizzaiolo ?

A Pizzaiolo should be adept at working under pressure and possess meticulous attention to detail. Experience with various types of pizza doughs, such as thin crust, thick crust, and cheese-stuffed, is essential. Equally important is the skill to work with less traditional ingredients, like gluten-free cheese and flour.

A Pizzaiolo requires kitchen and culinary experience, particularly in preparing and cooking pizzas. Formal training is beneficial but not always necessary. It's crucial for a Head chef, Sous Chef, Chef de Partie, or Restaurant Manager (especially if pizza is the restaurant's main offering) to recognize your proficiency in crafting high-quality pizzas in busy kitchen settings.

Additionally, some managerial skills, the ability to delegate tasks (if managing a small team), knowledge of food supply management (particularly for ordering fresh ingredients), and a comprehensive understanding of kitchen hygiene standards are vital for success as a Pizzaiolo or Pizza Maker.

The latest offers for Pizzaiolo’s across London

For Pizzaiolos interested in short-term work with flexible scheduling, here are three easy steps to start getting mission proposals:

1. Register as self-employed Pizzaiolo before signing up for Brigad.
2. Download the app and sign up in minutes; it's free, and there's no commitment required.
3. Create and personalize your profile to start receiving mission proposals.

You're free to decide whether to accept or decline them.

How to find a Pizzaiolo with Brigad? 

To hire a Pizza Chef with the Brigad app, 3 steps are sufficient:

1. Create an account on the Brigad app or website (free registration and no commitment)
2. Set up your missions in a few clicks specify the required skills, dress code, equipment, duration, payment method, and more.
3. Submit your mission and let the algorithm handle the rest!

Once you set up a mission, it's sent to Pizzaiolos with the relevant skills in your area.

When a Pizzaiolo accepts, you'll be notified and can then connect with them directly.

All Pizzaiolos and other hospitality professionals undergo a strict vetting process to ensure the best match.

UK companies that are hiring Pizzaiolos through Brigad

Trusted by over 10,000 businesses to reinforce their teams, Brigad is widely used by both large groups and independent businesses in every sector of the hospitality industry.

The platform offers a connection with thousands of highly qualified, self-employed Pizzaiolos and other hospitality professionals.

UK Pizzaiolo Salary Ranges 

The Pizza Chef salary (also known as a pizza maker, pizza chef, or pizza cook) in the UK varies based on factors like experience, location, and the type of establishment. 

In major cities such as London, Manchester, and Birmingham, and in chain restaurants and hotels, Pizzaiolos typically earn more than those working in smaller pizza restaurants or takeaways in rural areas. 

On average, a Pizzaiolo can earn between £21,000 to £25,000, often including bonuses and benefits. However, salaries are likely to be higher in more prestigious restaurants or those specializing in pizza.

How much can a Pizzaiolo earn per hour with Brigad? 

For Pizzaiolos carrying out freelance missions in London via Brigad, the starting hourly wage is £20, which can increase to £26 for those with more experience

How to become a Pizzaiolo ?

Many Pizza Cooks begin their careers by showcasing their ability to create high-quality pizzas that customers love. This can be achieved through formal culinary education, such as a diploma, or via on-the-job training.

After a year or two of experience, you should be fully capable of overseeing every aspect of pizza production, from ingredient preparation to final presentation. In some cases, this might also include managing a small team, especially in larger establishments.

Once you have mastered these skills and a suitable opportunity arises—be it in your current restaurant, a new location, or through an exciting Pizzaiolo mission with Brigad—it's the perfect time to advance in your career.

How to become a self-employed Pizzaiolo ?

Self-employment is becoming increasingly popular in various professions, including among Pizzaiolos in the catering and hospitality industry.

To become a freelance Pizzaiolo, follow these essential steps:

• Register as a Sole Trader with HMRC: This is a crucial first step, requiring minimal paperwork and enabling legal self-employment.
• Obtain a UTR Number from HMRC: Secure your Unique Taxpayer Reference number, necessary for tax purposes and identification as a sole trader.
• Meet Eligibility Requirements: Ensure you're eligible for self-employment in the UK, especially important for non-EU international students who may face restrictions.
• Manage Your Tax Affairs: Be responsible for submitting an annual self-assessment tax return based on your income and expenses.
• Maintain Accurate Financial Records: Keep detailed records of all your income and expenses for tax purposes.
• Understand Tax Obligations: Familiarize yourself with tax bands and VAT requirements as they apply to self-employed professionals.

As a self-employed Pizzaiolo, you have the opportunity to explore diverse working options. This includes the ability to combine freelance projects with long-term contracts, providing a varied and dynamic career path. You also enjoy significant work flexibility, allowing you to select your work schedule and locations that best align with your personal goals and preferences.

Additionally, it's important to stay informed by regularly consulting official government resources for any updates or new information related to self-employment.

Why Choose the Position of Pizzaiolo ? 

Most professional Pizzaiolos choose the role from a love of cooking (and eating!) pizzas or as the first step in a long culinary career. It opens a lot of doors and has enormous upward potential for ambitious Chefs.

How to be a good Pizzaiolo ?

The key to being an excellent Pizzaiolo lies in consistently cooking delicious, high-quality pizzas. 

Additionally, it's important to have the ability to create innovative pizza recipes, while also paying meticulous attention to allergies, maintaining strict hygiene standards, and upholding consistently high quality in the kitchen.

What are the working conditions for a Pizzaiolo ?

Working conditions for Pizzaiolos can vary based on the establishment. They often face long hours, sometimes working from before the kitchen opens until after it closes, which can amount to 12-hour days or longer. A Pizza Cook typically needs to prepare ingredients in advance to ensure readiness for the restaurant's opening hours.

Weekends, particularly Friday and Saturday nights, are commonly the busiest times for pizza restaurants, pubs, and hotel F&B operations, so weekend work is usually a requirement for Pizzaiolos

Typical working hours of a Pizzaiolo

Pizzaiolos understand that their work often involves long, irregular, and unsociable hours, which are common in the hospitality sector. If you have been in this line of work for several years, you might be seeking a change of pace, greater flexibility, and a better work-life balance—to avoid consistently finishing work at midnight or later.

Brigad can assist in this transition, connecting you with missions that more closely align with your preferred lifestyle and desired earnings as a self-employed Pizza Cook.

What Career progression is Possible for a Pizzaiolo ?

A skilled, talented, creative, and experienced Pizzaiolo has the potential to rise to the top in the culinary world.

While the path may differ based on individual goals and opportunities, typical advancements include:

• Senior Pizzaiolo or Lead Pizza Chef: After gaining experience and expertise, a Pizzaiolo can progress to a senior or lead position within a pizzeria, overseeing the pizza-making process and mentoring junior staff.
• Kitchen Manager or Head Chef: With further experience, a Pizzaiolo might transition into broader kitchen management roles, such as a Kitchen Manager or Head Chef, especially in establishments where pizza is a primary offering.
• Restaurant Manager: Some Pizzaiolos may move into restaurant management, overseeing the entire operation of a pizzeria or restaurant, including staff management, inventory, and customer service.
• Pizzeria Owner or Entrepreneur: Many experienced Pizzaiolos choose to open their own pizzerias, leveraging their culinary skills and business acumen to create successful entrepreneurial ventures.
• Culinary Instructor or Trainer: Teaching the art of pizza making in culinary schools or workshops can be a rewarding career path, sharing expertise and passion with aspiring chefs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What equipment and work attire does a Pizzaiolo Need ?

A Pizzaiolo typically requires specialized equipment such as a pizza oven, pizza peel, and dough mixer for efficient pizza preparation.

In terms of work attire, they should wear a chef's uniform, head covering, non-slip shoes, and gloves to maintain hygiene and safety standards while crafting delicious pizzas.