Job Description
Lead Baker
Job Type: Full-time, hourly
Pay Range: $20-22, hourly
Reports to: Prepared Foods Manager
Supervises: Bakers, bakery assistants, and other kitchen staff during assigned shifts
About Pomegranate Market
Pomegranate Market is a locally owned natural foods store in Sioux Falls, dedicated to healthy living, organic ingredients, and exceptional customer service. Our Bistro serves fresh, clean, and delicious food made from scratch. We’re looking for a motivated and friendly Kitchen Assistant to join our team.
Position Summary
The Lead Baker oversees daily operations of the bakery at Pomegranate Market’s Downtown location, ensuring consistent production of high-quality breads, pastries, and desserts that reflect our commitment to freshness and craft. This position combines hands-on baking expertise with leadership responsibilities—serving as the top kitchen lead during certain shifts and ensuring smooth coordination across departments.
Responsibilities
Bakery Production & Operations
- Produce high-quality baked goods including breads, muffins, cookies, pastries, and other desserts according to established recipes and production schedules.
- Maintain consistency and excellence in product appearance, taste, and freshness.
- Ensure bakery and kitchen areas are clean, organized, and compliant with health and safety regulations.
- Manage ingredient ordering, receiving, and inventory rotation.
- Oversee proper labeling, storage, and display of baked goods.
- Collaborate with the Prepared Foods Manager to develop new items, seasonal offerings, and catering desserts.
Shift Leadership
- Act as the top kitchen leader on duty during assigned shifts, providing supervision and direction for all back-of-house operations.
- Support and model a culture of teamwork, efficiency, and care.
- Ensure smooth communication between departments during shifts.
- Handle customer inquiries or issues courteously and professionally.
- Open or close the kitchen as assigned, ensuring proper cash handling, food safety, and facility security.
Staff Support & Training
- Train, coach, and supervise bakery and support staff on baking techniques, recipes, and safety procedures.
- Delegate daily tasks effectively to maintain productivity and consistency.
- Provide feedback and assist with performance evaluations.
- Promote a positive, inclusive, and growth-oriented kitchen culture.
Inventory & Cost Management
- Track and manage ingredient usage to control waste and maintain target margins.
- Participate in monthly inventory counts and assist with order planning.
- Suggest improvements to processes and product efficiency.
Safety & Compliance
- Maintain compliance with all food safety and sanitation standards.
- Ensure equipment is properly cleaned and maintained.
- Report maintenance issues or safety concerns promptly.
- Maintain required food handler certification.
Schedule
Shifts vary by need and assignment Monday-Sunday as scheduled by the Prepared Foods Manager. Generally, the Lead Baker is scheduled for 8 hour blocks of time at the beginning, middle or end of day. All staff are expected to maintain regular and punctual attendance, adhering to assigned schedules and communicating promptly about any requested schedule changes.
Qualifications
- 2+ years of professional baking experience required; leadership or supervisory experience preferred.
- Strong knowledge of baking techniques, ingredient functions, and food safety standards.
- Excellent time management, communication, and organizational skills.
- Ability to lead and motivate others in a fast-paced kitchen environment.
- Capable of lifting up to 50 lbs and standing for long periods.
- Availability to work early mornings, weekends, and holidays as needed.
- Must obtain food handler certification (Serve Safe or equivalent) within 90 days of hire.
Compensation & Benefits
Competitive starting pay based on experience.
90-day introductory period.
Employee discount on store purchases.
Health and dental insurance.
Casual dress code and a friendly, supportive work environment.