A Baker assembles ingredients and bakes breads, pastries, or a variety of other baked goods. May specialize in baking a particular product, such as bread or cakes, or specialize in a particular style of baking. Works in an independent bakery, restaurant, grocery store, or food manufacturing facility.
Observe color of products being baked and adjust oven temperatures, humidity, or conveyor speeds accordingly. Set oven temperatures and place items into hot ovens for baking. Combine measured ingredients in bowls of mixing, blending, or cooking machinery. Measure or weigh flour or other ingredients to prepare batters, dough, fillings, or icings, using scales or graduated containers. Roll, knead, cut, or shape dough to form sweet rolls, pie crusts, tarts, cookies, or other products. Place dough in pans, molds, or on sheets and bake in production ovens or on grills. Check the quality of raw materials to ensure that standards and specifications are met. Adapt the quantity of ingredients to match the amount of items to be baked. Apply glazes, icings, or other toppings to baked goods, using spatulas or brushes. Check equipment to ensure that it meets health and safety regulations and perform maintenance or cleaning, as necessary. Decorate baked goods, such as cakes or pastries and develop new recipes. Set time and speed controls for mixing machines, blending machines, or steam kettles so that ingredients will be mixed or cooked according to instructions as well as operate slicing/wrapping machines when needed. Prepare or maintain inventory or production records. Direct or coordinate bakery deliveries and order or receive supplies/equipment.
Required Skills/Abilities:
Ability to listen and follow directions. Ability to follow safety rules and guidelines throughout the kitchen and restaurant.
Education and Experience:
Prior completion of food safety coursework preferred.
Physical Requirements:
Prolonged periods standing. Must be able to work nights and weekends. Must be able to lift and carry up to 25 pounds at a time.
