Lead Baker

San Manuel Casino is a premier gaming and hospitality destination located in the Inland Empire, known for its vibrant atmosphere and commitment to exceptional guest experiences. As one of the largest private employers in the Inland Empire, San Manuel deeply cares about the future, growth, and well-being of its employees. The casino encompasses a diverse range of dining options, including a distinguished Pastry Department dedicated to high-quality baked goods and desserts that delight guests with craftsmanship and innovation.

The Lead Baker role at San Manuel Casino plays a pivotal part in maintaining the high standards of the Pastry Department. Reporting under the direction of the Assistant Pastry Chef, the Lead Baker is entrusted with leading, supporting, and training the baking team. This position requires hands-on involvement in the preparation and production of a wide variety of baked goods, desserts, and pastries, ensuring adherence to stringent quality control measures and Pastry Department standards. The Lead Baker must oversee the execution of recipes, monitor production output, and adjust workflows based on demand to guarantee timely delivery and consistency across all bakery items.

In addition to production responsibilities, the Lead Baker serves as a communication bridge between the baking team and the Pastry Chef, keeping all parties informed about any changes or issues in production schedules. The role demands flexibility and the ability to step into any baking station to meet production deadlines. Maintaining a safe and efficient work environment is paramount, and the Lead Baker is expected to uphold sanitation protocols and ensure the proper operation of all bakery equipment.

This position requires strong organizational skills, meticulous attention to detail, and advanced baking expertise, including knowledge of bread, cakes, dessert pastries, cookies, mousses, and fine chocolate products. The Lead Baker should be adept at managing both standard and custom production orders in a high-volume setting. Training and development of bakery personnel are essential duties, with an emphasis on clear communication during daily pre-shift meetings and ongoing skill enhancement.

The Lead Baker also plays a critical role in inventory management, verifying ingredient availability and conducting thorough daily inventories to support smooth production flow. Food safety compliance is tightly monitored, including proper storage, labeling, and rotation of ingredients to meet established operational standards. Additionally, the Lead Baker supports the Pastry team in special projects such as catering high-profile events and managing dessert stations like the Serrano Buffet.

Ensuring safety in the workplace is a top priority, with responsibilities including reporting unsafe conditions, enforcing proper knife handling, and adhering to all health and safety guidelines. Operational record-keeping, such as logging sanitation activities, production sheets, and team schedules, also falls under the Lead Baker’s purview.

This full-time position requires a high school diploma or GED, with preference given to candidates holding a certificate or degree in Baking and Pastry Arts. A minimum of two years of professional experience in high-volume baking environments is essential. The ability to communicate fluently in English, perform basic mathematical operations, and maintain a professional demeanor under pressure is necessary. Certifications such as a Food Handler's card and ServSafe certification are required, and candidates may need to obtain a gaming license depending on regulatory requirements.

The physical demands and working environment present challenges typical of a fast-paced commercial kitchen. Candidates must be prepared to work evenings, weekends, and holidays, maintain physical stamina, and adhere to strict appearance and hygiene standards. Overall, the Lead Baker position at San Manuel Casino is an excellent opportunity for a skilled baking professional to advance their career in a supportive and dynamic environment focused on quality and guest satisfaction.