Baker/Oven Operator

Water Street Bagel Co. is a beloved local bakery located in Syracuse, NY, known for its traditional and artisanal bagels crafted with care and expertise. As a growing business, we combine a strong commitment to quality with a team-oriented atmosphere, making our bakery a top choice for both customers and employees alike. Established as a community staple, Water Street Bagel Co. brings a unique charm and dedication to the craft of bagel baking, attracting food lovers from all around the region who appreciate our hands-on approach and wood-fired oven technique.

Our company prides itself on maintaining a high standard for artisan quality, offering an authentic bagel experience that reflects traditional baking methods. The use of a wood-fired oven is central to our baking process, delivering a distinctive flavor and texture that sets us apart in the competitive bakery market. We are passionate about preserving this craft and providing an environment that fosters learning, growth, and teamwork among our staff.

We are currently seeking a Wood-Fired Oven Operator (Baker) to join our team. This part-time position involves working early to mid-morning shifts, making it perfect for individuals who are early risers and enjoy an active, fast-paced work environment. The successful candidate will play a critical role in the day-to-day baking operations, primarily responsible for operating and maintaining our traditional wood-fired oven to produce high-quality bagels continuously throughout the day. This hands-on role requires attention to detail, efficiency, and the ability to work closely with the baking team to ensure a smooth and consistent production flow.

As a Wood-Fired Oven Operator, you will be an essential part of our early morning crew, involved in opening and preparing the oven and baking area, loading and unloading bagels, and monitoring quality to ensure every batch meets our high standards. You will also help maintain the wood-fired oven itself, assisting with building and maintaining the fire to achieve the perfect baking conditions. This role requires physical stamina, the ability to work in proximity to high heat, and a commitment to safety and cleanliness in the workspace.

The ideal candidate is punctual, reliable, and ready to work with a positive, team-first mindset. While experience in baking or kitchen environments is preferred, we are willing to train the right person who demonstrates a strong work ethic and the eagerness to learn. This position offers approximately 15 to 20 hours per week with weekday shifts starting as early as 3:30 AM and weekend shifts requiring availability from about 7:00 AM to 12:30 PM. Weekend work is mandatory, reflecting the busy nature of our bakery.

Joining Water Street Bagel Co. gives you the opportunity to be part of a community-focused, growing local business where your contributions truly matter. Aside from competitive wages, our benefits include a flexible schedule, free food and snacks during shifts, and ongoing training and development opportunities to help you grow your skills in wood-fired baking and beyond. Our strong, supportive team environment helps ensure you will have the resources and encouragement to succeed in this unique role. Whether you are just starting your baking career or looking to deepen your skills in a specialty baking process, this role provides a great opportunity to get hands-on experience and become part of something special in the Syracuse food scene.