Production Baker 1 (Night)

Grand Central Bakery has been a pioneer in revolutionizing bread. Established in 1989, the company introduced rustic artisan loaves to tables across the Northwest, igniting a movement toward high-quality, handcrafted baked goods. As a Certified B Corporation, Grand Central Bakery is part of a global initiative where business is leveraged as a force for positive social and environmental impact. The company holds sustainability at its core, influencing every aspect of its operations, from sourcing ingredients responsibly to creating a supportive and inclusive workplace for employees and making meaningful contributions to local communities. Grand Central Bakery is dedicated to fostering an organizational culture grounded in values such as respect, teamwork, and continuous improvement, focusing not only on producing exceptional products but also on building a business that serves a higher purpose.

The Baker 1 position at Grand Central Bakery serves as an entry-level role within the production baking team. The focus of this role is on learning to produce high-quality artisan baked goods efficiently while complying with all Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) requirements. It is a critical role that requires attention to detail, a willingness to develop and refine baking skills, and the ability to work collaboratively within a dynamic production environment. This position is the first step in a three-level Baker career path, where upon successful completion of the training period and demonstration of competence, the Baker 1 can progress to Baker 2.

The role is represented by the Bread Bakers and Dishwashers Union (BCTGM), which means the position operates under a collective bargaining agreement that governs employment terms and conditions. The role offers a competitive hourly wage of $22.34 and is non-exempt, making the position eligible for overtime compensation. The work schedule is demanding and requires flexibility, including the availability to work weekends due to the bakery's continuous seven-days-a-week, 365-days-a-year operations.

Baker 1s gain practical hands-on experience with various baking stages such as mixing, forming, fermenting, and proofing, as well as with the operation of important bakery equipment like rack ovens, mixers, dividers, and loaders. Bakers are expected to maintain accurate product counts, adhere strictly to quality control measures, and report shortages or quality issues promptly. Another key responsibility includes documenting critical data such as mix times and dough temperatures to ensure preservation of product standards and food safety.

Additionally, Bakers at this level are encouraged to communicate effectively with shift leads and management about equipment issues, supply needs, and maintenance. Continuous learning is supported through using training documents and checklists at every step of the baking process to meet final product goals and contribute positively to the bakery’s financial performance by minimizing waste. Professionalism, teamwork, and demonstrating the company’s mission in daily actions are important foundational expectations. Employees are also expected to support a culturally inclusive and anti-racist work environment, demonstrating respect and critical self-reflection.

Physical demands of the position are significant and include standing for the entire shift, frequent walking, lifting up to 50 pounds, and performing repetitive arm and hand motions. The bakery environment involves exposure to flour dust and other grain dusts, and Bakers must work safely following all safety training and report any hazards or injuries immediately.

This opportunity is ideal for individuals seeking to develop a career in artisan baking within a company that values sustainability, community, and employee growth, offering a workplace where hands-on skills and teamwork yield high-quality bakery products enjoyed by many. The role supports novice bakers in gaining essential knowledge and competencies to progress within a respected and innovative bakery team.