Head Baker

Pastelito Sourdough Bakery is a rapidly growing wholesale bakery specializing in artisan sourdough and yeasted breads. We are seeking an experienced, detail-oriented Head Baker / Production Manager to lead our baking operations and oversee daily production for our wholesale accounts.

This role is both hands-on and managerial. You will supervise the baking team, maintain product quality, manage production schedules, optimize workflow, and ensure consistency across all product lines. Ideal candidates have strong commercial baking experience, excellent leadership skills, and the ability to run an efficient and well-organized production environment.

ResponsibilitiesProduction Leadership

• Oversee all aspects of daily bread production, including mixing, fermentation, shaping, and baking.
• Manage, train, and mentor bakers and assistants in proper techniques and standards.
• Maintain consistency in flavor, texture, shaping, and quality across all products.
• Troubleshoot dough behavior, fermentation issues, and product inconsistencies.

Production Planning & Scheduling

• Build and maintain daily/weekly production schedules based on wholesale orders.
• Adjust production plans for seasonality, customer needs, and volume fluctuations.
• Ensure timely completion of all batches to meet delivery deadlines.

Quality Control

• Establish and uphold quality standards for all breads and bakery items.
• Conduct regular checks on dough development, shaping, baking times, and finished products.
• Maintain and update SOPs for all recipes and processes.

Inventory & Ordering

• Monitor ingredient levels and place orders with approved suppliers.
• Track and manage inventory for flour, yeast, packaging, and related supplies.
• Work with the owner to maintain cost efficiency and minimize waste.

Equipment Management

• Oversee proper operation of mixers, ovens, proofers, and bakery equipment.
• Coordinate maintenance, repairs, and cleaning schedules.
• Train staff on equipment safety protocols.

Team Management

• Lead daily production meetings and communicate expectations clearly.
• Support hiring, onboarding, and training of new team members.
• Ensure a positive, collaborative, and high-performance kitchen environment.
• Uphold safety and sanitation standards at all times.

Administrative & Operational Duties

• Track production metrics (yields, waste, timing, labor allocation).
• Collaborate with owner on new product development or improvements.
• Maintain accurate documentation of recipes, schedules, and inventory.

QualificationsRequired Experience

• 3+ years of commercial bakery experience (artisan bread experience strongly preferred).
• Strong working knowledge of dough mixing, fermentation, shaping, and baking techniques.
• Experience leading a bakery team or managing BOH kitchen operations.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced production environment.

Skills & Attributes

• Strong leadership and communication skills.
• High attention to detail and commitment to product consistency.
• Ability to train and mentor staff effectively.
• Excellent organization and time-management abilities.
• Ability to lift 50+ lbs and stand for long periods.
• Valid Food Handler's Certificate (or ability to obtain immediately).

Nice-to-Haves

• Experience in sourdough fermentation and artisan bread formulas.
• Background in wholesale bakery production.
• Interest in specialty grains, whole grains, or fermentation science.

Benefits

• Pay Starting at $22/hr (based on experience).
• Professional growth within a fast-growing wholesale bakery.
• Opportunities to lead R&D for new breads and seasonal items.
• Supportive, craft-focused team culture.
• Occasional bread perks to take home.

Schedule

Part-time schedule includes early morning shifts, with production typically starting between 4–6am depending on demand. Weekend availability may be required during high-volume periods.

How to ApplyIf you are an experienced commercial baker ready to lead production at a growing wholesale bakery, please apply here:

Pay: From $22.00 per hour

Expected hours: 20.0 – 30.0 per week

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Employee discount
• Paid time off

Experience:

• Baking in wholesale environmoent: 5 years (Preferred)

License/Certification:

• Food Manager Certification (Preferred)

Work Location: In person