School Baker - Puohala Elementary

The Hawaii State Department of Education is a significant public education institution dedicated to providing quality educational services across the state. This department serves a vast student population through its numerous schools and programs, promoting equal opportunity and fostering a supportive learning environment for students and staff alike. As one of the largest employers within the education sector in Hawaii, the Department values diversity, innovation, and community involvement. It upholds strict compliance with federal laws regarding discrimination, ensuring a fair and inclusive workplace for all. The Department is committed to offering competitive salaries and reliable employment conditions, making it an appealing option for prospective employees seeking rewarding careers in education and support services.

Within this respected educational framework, the role of a School Baker is pivotal to the daily food services operations in the schools. This position is classified under the BC-06 salary band, with a salary of $5,054.00 per month, based on full-time employment. The School Baker plays a crucial role in ensuring that baked goods are prepared promptly and in adequate quantities to meet the nutritional and scheduling needs of students and staff. The position requires close coordination with other food service employees to maintain a smooth operation that aligns with meal service times and satellite delivery schedules.

The responsibilities of the School Baker encompass a wide range of baking and food preparation tasks essential for the effective operation of school meal programs. This includes reviewing daily production records and selecting appropriate standardized recipes, as well as securing the necessary ingredients and equipment. The baker must accurately weigh, measure, and mix ingredients according to approved recipes, adjusting yields as needed using mathematical calculations to meet production demands.

Key baking duties involve preparing and baking a diverse variety of products such as bread, rolls, buns, biscuits, muffins, pizza crusts, and other baked goods commonly served in school meals. The baker is also responsible for setting up serving counters, replenishing food items, and assisting in portioning and packing meals for satellite locations. Maintaining high standards of cleanliness and food safety is integral, requiring the baker to clean and sanitize work areas, utensils, and equipment thoroughly.

Aside from the operational tasks, the School Baker is tasked with managing leftover foods responsibly by labeling, storing, or disposing of them appropriately and documenting the process. Inventory management duties include receiving ordered provisions, checking product conditions, storing supplies correctly, and assisting with monthly inventory and record-keeping.

Leadership and teamwork are emphasized in this role, as the School Baker may direct and instruct helpers, including cafeteria and student aides, assist in training new employees, and even supervise serving operations at satellite schools. Ongoing professional development through participation in staff meetings, workshops, and mandated training hours as outlined by the United States Department of Agriculture supports continued excellence in service delivery.

The position demands a thorough understanding of baking principles, kitchen safety, and sanitation practices within a quantity baking context, making prior experience or education in baking and food service highly important. Given its critical role in supporting students' nutritional well-being, the School Baker ensures that food preparation and service meet the highest quality and safety standards while contributing positively to the school environment.