Position Overview
Baking assistants work in specialty bakeries, both at the back end and the front.
Their work is divided into two parts – handling baking assistant work and managing customers at the front end.
They have to be knowledgeable about food safety and hygiene as they are constantly in an environment conducive to food spoilage.
Most bakery assistants opt to work in this position for mere interest in the work. Depending on the type and size of the bakery in question, bakery assistants are hired based on their qualifications and skills.
Education and Training
A bakery catering to customers with rich tastes and high aesthetic expectations will hire someone with a degree in bakery arts.
One that provides basic baked goods can do with a bakery assistant who has an interest in the work and customer service knowledge but does not necessarily hold a degree.
A lot of training is done on the job as well so many bakery assistants become qualified while working at this position.
Skills and Knowledge
Bakery assistants need to possess knowledge of handling customers and managing payments as well.
A little information regarding marketing and sales is helpful as well.
People who are organized and possess good bookkeeping skills are usually preferred for this position.
See also: Baking Assistant Resume
Baking Assistant Duties and Responsibilities
• Greet customers and provide them with information regarding available bakery products.
• Take orders for specialty cakes and a large number of items and provide a date and time when they will be ready.
• Take notes when special instructions are being provided such as the weight, shape, and theme of the cake.
• Process cash and credit card payments and issue receipts.
• Prepare raw materials such as oil, yeast, flour, and sugar for baking purposes.
• Knead the dough for bread and pizza and bake them according to set timings and recipes.
• Assist bakers in baking cakes, pizzas, casseroles, pies, and other bakery items.
• Make fondant, frosting, and buttercream mixtures by following taste, color, and consistency protocols.
• Roll and apply fondant on cakes and cupcakes and make figures and cutouts according to themes.
• Give finishing touches to the end product and ensure that it is stored properly before the delivery time.
• Pack baked items properly in special boxes and ensure that they are handed to customers in a safe manner.
• Handle baking supplies and equipment inventory and procure out-of-stock items.
• Ensure the cleanliness and sanitization of kitchen and bakery areas.
• Make sure that freshly baked goods are aesthetically placed in display boxes.