
Job Overview
Employment Type
Full-time
Hourly
Compensation
Hourly
Exact $24.26
Work Schedule
Weekend Shifts
Benefits
Health Insurance
Dental Insurance
Paid Time Off
overtime pay
Employee Discounts
Retirement Plan
team environment
Job Description
Grand Central Bakery is a pioneering artisan bakery established in 1989 that sparked a bread revolution by bringing rustic artisan loaves to Northwest tables. As a Certified B Corporation, Grand Central Bakery operates with integrity and a strong commitment to sustainability, impacting everything from ingredient sourcing to employee care and community investments. The bakery is dedicated to using business as a force for good, emphasizing ethical practices and environmental stewardship. It is not just a bakery but a community-focused organization that strives to uphold its mission, vision, and values through every aspect of its operations. The company’s dedication to quality, service, and sustainability has earned it a respected place in the artisan bread market and a loyal customer base across the region.
The role of Driver 1 at Grand Central Bakery is an essential position responsible for the timely and safe delivery of the bakery’s artisan bread products to customers and neighborhood cafés. This is a full-time, non-exempt position paying $24.26 per hour, with eligibility for overtime. As an entry-level driver position, Driver 1 serves as the foundation for developing expertise in delivery routes. Within six months, the driver is expected to gain proficiency and confidence in at least two delivery routes, completing them efficiently within the set time parameters. By 18 months, the driver should be capable of managing three routes independently and effectively. The role requires the individual to embody the company’s core customer service philosophy known as the "3 Steps to Giving Great Service" which ensures consistent positive customer interactions at every delivery.
The Driver 1 reports to the Delivery Manager and is accountable to the Assistant Delivery Manager and Delivery Coordinator, working collaboratively within a team environment. The role requires exceptional time management, strong communication skills, and a commitment to safety and quality standards. Drivers are responsible for vehicle operation using safe driving techniques like the Smith System, accurate packing and handling of products, quality control checks, resolving customer inquiries, and maintaining cleanliness both within the delivery vehicle and the designated delivery areas. The position demands flexibility due to scheduling needs that include early morning starts and weekend work, as Grand Central Bakery operates every day of the year. Candidates must be prepared physically to meet the demands of the job, including lifting and carrying up to 50 pounds and frequent periods of standing, walking, and driving.
This job is an excellent opportunity for individuals committed to delivering excellent customer service, working in a fast-paced and dynamic environment, and growing their skills within a company that values sustainability and community impact. The successful Driver 1 will demonstrate strong problem-solving abilities, adaptability to change, teamwork, and a proactive approach to supporting sales and operational goals. The role is ideal for someone who enjoys driving, has strong organizational skills, and desires to contribute to a company recognized for its ethical business practices and artisan food products.
The role of Driver 1 at Grand Central Bakery is an essential position responsible for the timely and safe delivery of the bakery’s artisan bread products to customers and neighborhood cafés. This is a full-time, non-exempt position paying $24.26 per hour, with eligibility for overtime. As an entry-level driver position, Driver 1 serves as the foundation for developing expertise in delivery routes. Within six months, the driver is expected to gain proficiency and confidence in at least two delivery routes, completing them efficiently within the set time parameters. By 18 months, the driver should be capable of managing three routes independently and effectively. The role requires the individual to embody the company’s core customer service philosophy known as the "3 Steps to Giving Great Service" which ensures consistent positive customer interactions at every delivery.
The Driver 1 reports to the Delivery Manager and is accountable to the Assistant Delivery Manager and Delivery Coordinator, working collaboratively within a team environment. The role requires exceptional time management, strong communication skills, and a commitment to safety and quality standards. Drivers are responsible for vehicle operation using safe driving techniques like the Smith System, accurate packing and handling of products, quality control checks, resolving customer inquiries, and maintaining cleanliness both within the delivery vehicle and the designated delivery areas. The position demands flexibility due to scheduling needs that include early morning starts and weekend work, as Grand Central Bakery operates every day of the year. Candidates must be prepared physically to meet the demands of the job, including lifting and carrying up to 50 pounds and frequent periods of standing, walking, and driving.
This job is an excellent opportunity for individuals committed to delivering excellent customer service, working in a fast-paced and dynamic environment, and growing their skills within a company that values sustainability and community impact. The successful Driver 1 will demonstrate strong problem-solving abilities, adaptability to change, teamwork, and a proactive approach to supporting sales and operational goals. The role is ideal for someone who enjoys driving, has strong organizational skills, and desires to contribute to a company recognized for its ethical business practices and artisan food products.
Job Requirements
- Must be at least 18 years old
- Ability to read, write, and speak English
- Maintains a valid Food Handler's Card at all times
- Must demonstrate regular attendance and punctuality
- High school diploma or GED preferred
- Able to perform accurate basic math
- Professional driving experience preferred
- Experience with Direct Sales Delivery preferred
- Holds valid Oregon or Washington driver’s license with acceptable driving record
- Must follow Driver Safety Manual policies
- Must pass company driving test
- Able to successfully complete Smith System training and apply principles
- Ability to work early morning start at 2:30 am
- Schedule flexibility required including weekends
- Physical ability to lift and carry 50 pounds
- Ability to maintain safety compliance and report hazards immediately
- Willingness to work in environments with grain dust exposure
- Must be able to stand, walk, bend, climb stairs, and drive for extended periods
Job Qualifications
- Must be at least 18 years old
- Ability to read, write, and speak English
- Maintains a valid Food Handler's Card
- High school diploma or GED preferred
- Ability to add, subtract, and multiply with ease
- Professional driving experience preferred
- Direct Sales Delivery (DSD) experience preferred
- Holds and maintains a valid Oregon or Washington driver’s license with 5 years driving experience
- Driving record acceptable to Grand Central Bakery
- Able to pass company driving test and Smith System training
- Demonstrates effective communication and customer service skills
- Shows problem solving and decision making abilities
- Works well in team environments
- Committed to continuous learning and skill development
Job Duties
- Has expertise and confidence with 3 or more routes and is able to complete the routes in their entirety within the prescribed time constraints
- Operates vehicle in a safe and courteous manner while obeying all traffic laws
- Uses Smith System safe driving techniques during each delivery route
- Engages in accurate and careful packing of all products
- Demonstrates accuracy with invoices and money handling
- Has knowledge of all bread products and can describe the properties of different products
- Performs quality control of product, culling unusable loaves and recording loss to the Delivery Coordinator
- Monitors daily product and identifies potential quality control concerns
- Shares quality control feedback with appropriate departments and staff
- Differentiates between and describes products
- Cleans, stocks, and organizes grocery store displays
- Addresses customer questions or complaints and escalates concerns to management as needed
- Keeps delivery vehicles and delivery area clean, organized, and ready for next shift
- Accurately sorts leftover bread for last minute wholesale orders, freezing, and donations
- Inspects delivery vehicle prior to and after deliveries and reports any required repairs or safety hazards
- Understands the financial goals of the department and the impact of lost product
- Anticipates and responds to customer needs
- Engages in suggestive selling with existing customers
- Alerts sales team to possible account leads
- Works with managers to improve policies and procedures
- Follows the mission, vision, and values of Grand Central Bakery
- Works collaboratively with a team
- Communicates respectfully and professionally
- Delivers excellent customer service consistently
- Maintains competencies and demonstrates continuous skill application
- Supports an anti-racist and culturally inclusive environment
- Follows safe work procedures and safety training
- Reports workplace hazards and injuries promptly
Job Criteria
Experience
Mid Level (3-7 years)
Job Location
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