Third Cook - Baker

Amherst College is committed to enriching its educational experience and its culture through the diversity of its faculty, administration, and staff.

The Third Cook - Baker is a full-time, year-round position. The expected salary range for this job opportunity is $21.24 to $21.75 per hour. The salary offered will vary based on relevant education, training, experience, tenure status, and other nondiscriminatory business considerations.

About the role

The Third Cook - 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 Third Cook - 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 Third Cook - 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.

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

Food Safety and Allergen Awareness

• Understand and implement established food safety procedures and allergen prevention protocols
• Actively support and respond appropriately to individuals with food allergies to ensure a safe dining experience for all community members
• Apply knowledge and procedures covered in mandatory training sessions in daily duties
• Maintain safety standards to protect the health and well-being of students, guests, and colleagues

Requirements

• High School Diploma or equivalent
• 1 to 3 years of related experience, or 5+ years in bakery production as equivalent work experience
• 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, including an acceptable criminal offender records information (CORI) check
• Successful completion of pre-employment physical and lift test

Preferred Qualifications

• 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

Pay

$21.24 to $21.75 per hour

Benefits

Amherst College provides a comprehensive, highly competitive benefits package that meets the needs of staff and faculty and their families.