Baker- Bluffton Plant

Dot's Pretzels is a well-established brand known for delivering high-quality pretzels that taste as if they were made in a home kitchen. Located in Bluffton, IN, the company prides itself on its strong foundation built on relationships and a family-oriented culture. They are passionate about their employees, promoting leadership by example and fostering an environment where team members feel valued and supported. With significant growth experienced by the Dot's Pretzels brand, the Bluffton location is expanding its team to meet increasing demand. Weekly pay and a $500 sign-on bonus for eligible candidates emphasize the company’s commitment to rewarding its employees.

Employees benefit from a comprehensive total rewards package that includes health insurance covering medical, dental, and vision starting from day 30, along with a 401(k) retirement plan, paid time off, and lucrative referral bonuses. The facility operates on flexible shift schedules, offering both day and night shifts, with 12-hour shifts running from 7 am to 7 pm or 7 pm to 7 am. Team members work 3 to 4 days a week based on a 2-2-3 shift schedule, ensuring a balanced approach between work and personal time.

This role is a critical part of the pretzel-making process, focusing on the operation of large mixers and extruders using computer programming and precise hand measuring techniques. Candidates will need prior machine operating experience, with large bakery experience considered an asset. Bakers are responsible for maintaining consistent product quality by following Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), recognizing various dough textures, keeping equipment stocked with the correct amount of dough, and ensuring all machinery operates at appropriate settings.

Employees will also document production metrics like cuts per minute and caustic levels, check equipment such as flour sifters and conveyor systems, and manage inventory moves using S4 Hana software. Communication with supervisors and other departments such as Quality Assurance and packaging is essential, especially in reporting product issues and quality concerns. This role requires attention to detail, the ability to work well within a team, and adherence to safety and quality standards.

The company values candidates who bring related manufacturing or food manufacturing experience, including an understanding of Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), Safe Quality Foods (SQF), Autonomous/Preventative Maintenance, Continuous Improvement, and Warehouse Management Systems such as SAP or LPR. Physically, the role requires good physical condition, as it involves frequent standing, walking, and occasionally lifting up to 50 pounds. Safety equipment like eye protection, hearing protection, and hair/beard nets are often required to comply with workplace safety protocols.

Overall, joining Dot's Pretzels in Bluffton offers an exciting opportunity to be part of a company committed to quality, employee well-being, and growth. The Hershey Company, which oversees Dot's Pretzels, upholds equal opportunity employment practices, welcoming diverse candidates and supporting accommodations for applicants with disabilities.