Baker
SOC 51-3011.00 · ESCO 7512 · OSCA 322131
Role snapshot
Overview
Measures and mixes ingredients, shapes dough, and operates ovens to produce bread, pastries, and cakes on a commercial scale. Follows recipes precisely, monitors baking times, and maintains food safety and hygiene standards, ensuring consistent quality and efficient production for consumers.
Ensures the consistent production of high-quality baked goods, contributing to customer satisfaction and the availability of essential food items. Plays a key role in the daily operation of commercial kitchens and bakeries.
On the job
- Prepare and measure ingredients accurately according to established recipes and production schedules.
- Mix, knead, proof, and shape various types of dough for breads, rolls, and pastries.
- Operate and monitor commercial ovens, adjusting temperatures and baking times for optimal results.
- Decorate and finish baked goods, including icing cakes, glazing pastries, or applying toppings.
- Maintain a clean, sanitary, and organized work environment, adhering to all food safety regulations.
Tools & technology
Average salary
Job outlook
StableDemand is steady. This is an established role with consistent hiring across sectors.
Education & training
Vocational training, apprenticeship, or significant on-the-job experience in commercial baking is typically required.
Career pathways
WHERE YOU COULD GO
CURRENT ROLE
Baker
Manufacturing & Production
ADJACENT MOVES
STARTING POINTS
Who thrives here
Interest profile
realistic · RCA
People who enjoy hands-on work, operating machinery, following precise instructions, and applying creative touches to tangible products tend to thrive in this role.
Personality characteristics
Precise
Follows recipes and procedures with high accuracy, ensuring consistent product quality and safety.
Methodical
Enjoys structured tasks and systematic approaches to production processes, ensuring efficiency.
Practical
Prefers hands-on work with tangible results, operating equipment, and creating physical products.
Detail-oriented
Applies aesthetic touches to baked goods within established recipes and designs, ensuring visual appeal.
Composed
Handles the demands of early mornings, hot environments, and tight schedules calmly and effectively.
Observant
Pays close attention to ingredient quality, dough consistency, and baking progress to prevent errors.
Best for
- Individuals who enjoy working with their hands and seeing immediate, tangible results.
- Those who thrive in a structured, process-driven environment with clear quality expectations.
- People who are meticulous, reliable, and committed to food safety and hygiene.
Watch out for
- Requires very early morning starts and often includes regular weekend work.
- The work can be physically demanding, involving lifting, standing for long periods, and working in warm environments.
- Limited direct customer or social interaction compared to front-of-house roles.
A week in the life
A representative working week for a Baker — where the deep work, meetings, and admin actually land.
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