Casual Baker

Casual Baker

Amherst 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 standards
• Follow standardized recipes and established production methods
• Scale, mix, shape, bake, finish, and platter assigned baked goods
• Assist with daily production of cookies, bars, breads, pastries, and other bakery items
• Complete production tasks accurately and within established timelines
• Communicate product shortages, equipment concerns, or production issues to supervisors
• Work collaboratively with team members to meet daily operational needs
• Support special events and catering production as assigned

• Maintain a clean, orderly, and sanitary bakery at all times
• Clean and break down equipment during and after production
• Properly store tools and equipment and ensure work areas are organized
• Assist with stocking ingredients and rotating product using FIFO practices
• Monitor storage areas and communicate restocking needs
• Support waste reduction efforts and maintain quality control standards

Qualifications:

• High School Diploma or equivalent
• 1 to 3 years of related experience
• In lieu of minimum education and related experience, equivalent work experience: 5+ years in bakery production
• Foundational knowledge of basic baking techniques (mixing methods, scaling ingredients, baking times and temperatures)
• Ability to accurately follow standardized recipes and written production sheets
• Basic knife skills and safe equipment handling
• Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Reliable attendance and punctuality
• Ability to work independently on assigned tasks and as part of a team
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. and stand for extended periods
• Commitment to working in a welcoming and inclusive community
• Successful completion of required reference and background checks
• An acceptable criminal offender records information (CORI) check
• Successful completion of pre-employment physical and lift test

• 5+ years of experience in a bakery, caf, or high-volume food service operation
• Culinary or Baking & Pastry coursework, certificate, or apprenticeship experience
• Experience with basic doughs, batters, and finishing techniques
• Familiarity with commercial bakery equipment
• ServSafe Certification