Bakers

What this job is

Mix and bake ingredients to produce breads, rolls, cookies, cakes, pies, pastries, or other baked goods.

What they do day to day

• Measure or weigh flour or other ingredients to prepare batters, doughs, fillings, or icings, using scales or graduated containers.
• Set oven temperatures, and place items into hot ovens for baking.
• Check products for quality, and identify damaged or expired goods.
• Check equipment to ensure that it meets health and safety regulations, and perform maintenance or cleaning, as necessary.
• Adapt the quantity of ingredients to match the amount of items to be baked.
• Place dough in pans, molds, or on sheets, and bake in production ovens or on grills.
• Observe color of products being baked, and adjust oven temperatures, humidity, or conveyor speeds accordingly.
• Set time and speed controls for mixing machines, blending machines, or steam kettles so that ingredients will be mixed or cooked according to instructions.
• Combine measured ingredients in bowls of mixing, blending, or cooking machinery.
• Check the quality of raw materials to ensure that standards and specifications are met.

Skills and knowledge that matter most

Importance rated by people working in the job (1 = not important, 5 = extremely important).

Education and preparation

Preparation level 2 of 5 — Some preparation. Usually a high school diploma; some previous work experience or training helps.

Typical entry education (BLS): No formal educational credential.

Who this job suits

Based on the Holland (RIASEC) interest profile for this occupation.

Job titles you'll see in postings

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