Casual Baker

Casual BakerAmherst College invites applications for the Casual Baker position. The Casual Baker is a part-time, casual position with no benefits. The expected salary range for this job opportunity is: $18 to $20 per hour. The salary offered will vary based on a number of factors, including but not limited to relevant education, training, and experience, tenure status, and other nondiscriminatory business considerations.The Casual Baker supports daily bakery production that enhances the campus dining experience and contributes to student life. This position is responsible for preparing baked goods and related menu components in accordance with Dining Services standards for quality, consistency, presentation, and timeliness. Working collaboratively with culinary and service team members, the Casual Baker helps ensure that production needs are met in a supportive, team-oriented environment.This role requires a baker with solid foundational skills and experience in basic baking techniques and recipe execution. The Casual Baker should be comfortable working in a production setting, following standardized recipes, and maintaining organized work habits. Attention to detail, reliability, and a willingness to work as part of a team are essential.The schedule varies in response to operational needs and flexibility is required, as this position may support early morning shifts, assist with catering production, or contribute to campus-wide events. This part-time role provides additional support during high-volume periods to help maintain consistent bakery operations.Summary of Responsibilities:Prepare and bake quality products for student dining, catering, faculty dining, and retail operations in accordance with departmental standardsFollow standardized recipes and established production methodsScale, mix, shape, bake, finish, and platter assigned baked goodsAssist with daily production of cookies, bars, breads, pastries, and other bakery itemsComplete production tasks accurately and within established timelinesCommunicate product shortages, equipment concerns, or production issues to supervisorsWork collaboratively with team members to meet daily operational needsSupport special events and catering production as assignedMaintain a clean, orderly, and sanitary bakery at all timesClean and break down equipment during and after productionProperly store tools and equipment and ensure work areas are organizedAssist with stocking ingredients and rotating product using FIFO practicesMonitor storage areas and communicate restocking needsSupport waste reduction efforts and maintain quality control standardsQualifications:High School Diploma or equivalent1 to 3 years of related experienceIn lieu of minimum education and related experience, equivalent work experience: 5+ years in bakery productionFoundational knowledge of basic baking techniques (mixing methods, scaling ingredients, baking times and temperatures)Ability to accurately follow standardized recipes and written production sheetsBasic knife skills and safe equipment handlingAbility to work efficiently in a fast-paced environmentStrong organizational skills and attention to detailReliable attendance and punctualityAbility to work independently on assigned tasks and as part of a teamAbility to lift up to 50 lbs. and stand for extended periodsCommitment to working in a welcoming and inclusive communitySuccessful completion of required reference and background checksAn acceptable criminal offender records information (CORI) checkSuccessful completion of pre-employment physical and lift test5+ years of experience in a bakery, café, or high-volume food service operationCulinary or Baking & Pastry coursework, certificate, or apprenticeship experienceExperience with basic doughs, batters, and finishing techniquesFamiliarity with commercial bakery equipmentServSafe Certification