Casual Baker

Amherst•Amherst, MA

47d•$18 - $20•Onsite

About The Position

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.

Requirements

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

Nice To Haves

5+ years of experience in a bakery, café, 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

Responsibilities

Bakery Production 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
Organization, Stocking, and Sanitation 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