What are the responsibilities and job description for the Baker position at HAWTHORNE VALLEY ASSOCIATION?
Are you a positive, self-motivated individual who enjoys hands-on work, early mornings, and being part of a collaborative team producing high-quality, organic baked goods? No prior professional baking experience required; we will train the right candidate who is eager to learn, has food service experience, and is ready for early mornings!
Because this role requires a significant training investment, we are especially interested in candidates who are excited about growing with the bakery over the long term.
Location: Hawthorne Valley is seeking a full-time Baker to join our bakery team at the Ghent, NY store.
Pay: $17- $20 per hour, plus benefits. Compensation is based on experience, qualifications, and internal equity considerations.
What we offer:
- Full time employees receive insurance within 30 days or less which includes options for medical, dental, vision, and more!
- Paid time off for vacation, sick, and personal leave plus additional holidays and floating holiday
- 401(k) plan with up to 5% employer match after 1 year of employment
- Commitment to training and providing you with the skills you need for success
- A 20% discount to Hawthorne Valley Farm Store
- Employer provided short- and long-term disability, life insurance, and more!
The Role
At Hawthorne Valley Bakery, we are committed to producing the highest quality biodynamic and organic baked goods while supporting the broader mission of Hawthorne Valley Association in agriculture, education, and the arts. Our bakery also serves as an educational resource for the community on ecological, environmental, and food-related issues.
The Baker works closely with the Bakery Operations Supervisor and team to produce a wide range of breads and pastries that meet production goals for quality, efficiency, and consistency. This role contributes to a positive and respectful workplace culture while helping maintain the bakery as an ethical, collaborative, and mission-driven environment.
Successful candidates are detail-oriented, reliable, and able to work both independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced production setting.
Schedule
- Full-time: Monday – Friday
- Start Time: 4:00am
Key Responsibilities
- Produce breads from start to finish, including mixing, maintaining pre-ferments, scaling, kneading, shaping, proofing, and baking
- Prepare laminated doughs and pastry items
- Set up and maintain pastry station/cart for daily production
- Accurately follow and execute bakery formulas and recipes
- Assist with inventory management, including tracking and stocking flours and grains
- Participate in packing and invoicing orders
- Maintain cleanliness and sanitation of equipment and workspace in accordance with food safety standards
- Support educational initiatives connected to Hawthorne Valley’s mission when applicable
- Attend department meetings and contribute to team communication
- Perform additional tasks as assigned by the Bakery Operations Supervisor or designated trainer
Qualifications
- Professional baking experience or a culinary degree in Baking and Pastry Arts preferred, but not required
- Prior food service or kitchen experience required
- We are happy to train the right candidate who demonstrates a strong work ethic, reliability, and willingness to learn
- Ability to consistently work early morning shifts (4:00am start time)
- Interest in developing skills and growing in the role over the long term
- Strong attention to detail and organizational skills
- Ability to follow through on tasks and manage multiple priorities
- Ability to work in a production environment, including standing for extended periods and lifting up to 50 lbs
- Comfortable using bakery equipment and moving materials (e.g., pallet jack)
- Good communication skills and a collaborative mindset
- Reliable attendance and punctuality
- Willingness to learn, grow, and adapt to evolving bakery needs
Physical Requirements
This position requires standing for long periods, repetitive motions, lifting up to 50 pounds, and working in a fast-paced kitchen/production environment.
About Hawthorne Valley Association
Hawthorne Valley Association values and strives for social and cultural renewal in our work. We believe that cultivating an environment where everyone can be, and become, the truest expression of their humanity is essential for individual, organizational, and societal health. We are committed to creating a diverse coworker body and are proud to be an equal opportunity employer.
Disclaimer
All requirements are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities. This job description does not imply that these are the only duties to be performed. Employees may be required to perform other job-related duties as assigned. Employment with Hawthorne Valley Association is at-will.
Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status, and all other categories protected by law.
Salary : $17 - $20