What are the responsibilities and job description for the Bakery Production Manager position at Harper Associates?
Artisan Bread Production Manager
Search Conducted by Harper Associates
Detroit Metro Area
10am-7pm Shift
$90-$100K Base Bonus & PTO
We're an artisan bakery known for traditional methods, locally sourced ingredients, and baked goods that stop people in their tracks. As we grow, we're looking for an experienced Production Manager to lead our afternoon bread production team and keep the magic running smoothly — every single day.
What You'll Do
- Lead all bread production hands-on — mixing, bench shaping, proofing, baking, and managing all dough starters in a lead-by-example style
- Build and manage production schedules based on sales forecasts for both in-house and wholesale demand, with an eye on labor savings
- Own end-to-end quality control: maintain and exceed labor and food cost targets, uphold all bread product standards
- Lead training for all bread team members; assist in hiring and developing bread and packaging staff
- Maintain and update the department recipe book and food cost models
- Manage ingredient inventory — appropriate levels, freshness, product use dates, and organization
- Collaborate with the GM to maintain morale and teamwork; consult with the Sales Team on new product development
- Establish and rework process controls in both bread production and packaging
- Oversee daily, monthly, and quarterly cleaning schedules — spotless equipment is the standard, not the exception
- Maintain all foodservice equipment through proper usage, preventative maintenance, and staff training
- Enforce health, safety, and sanitation standards in compliance with local and state regulations
What You Bring
- Proven experience as a Production Manager in an artisan bakery or specialty food environment
- Deep, hands-on knowledge of artisan bread techniques — fermentation, shaping, dough starters, baking — the full picture
- Experience managing food costs, labor targets, and production schedules against real sales demand
- Strong leadership with a track record of training and motivating hands-on teams
- Mechanical aptitude — comfortable troubleshooting and maintaining bakery equipment
- Sharp organizational and communication skills; able to work cross-functionally with GM, sales, and production teams
- Solid understanding of food safety and sanitation regulations
- Comfortable in a fast-paced environment with early mornings, weekends, and holidays
To Apply
Send your resume, cover letter, and any portfolio showcasing your work (Instagram counts!) to kevin@harperjobs.com — or hit Apply below.
Kevin Swanquist
Executive Recruiter
Harper Associates
kevin@harpejobs.com
248-737-0222
www.harperjobs.com