Baker

1. Baker The master of bread, pastries, cookies, and pies

2. Nature of the Work • Bakers produce a variety of bread, pastries, and other baked goods for sale in establishments such as bakeries, grocery stores, and manufacturers' outlets. • In small bakeries or specialty shops, bakers bake small quantities of breads, pastries, cookies, and pies for consumers. • Creativity is a must, because bakers create new variations of products and decorate specialty goods like wedding cakes in agreement with a customer's request.

3. Education and Training • Most entry-level baker positions don't require formal education beyond high school. • However, bakers who seek employment at high-end restaurants and gourmet pastry shops can pursue a culinary school degree. • Most bakers learn the majority of their skills through on-the-job training. • Aspiring bakers work closely with their trainer, observing what he does and picking up new skills and techniques along the way. • Bakers must also learn about nutrition, government health and sanitation regulations, operating and maintaining machinery, and production processes. • If they aspire to own their own bakery, a knowledge of business and accounting is necessary.

4. Expected Salary Range • As a baker, you can expect to have an average annual salary of about $22,000. However, the salaries of bakers can range from less than $15,000 to more than $35,000. • Many factors will influence ones salary as a baker.

5. Pros and Cons • Pros - Make more money if experienced - Meet a lot of new people • Cons - Work 12 hours a day - Tight schedule - Difficult business to run - Lots of competition

6. Questions • How much education is required for entry level jobs? • Where do bakers earn most of their education? • What is the median salary of bakers? • What are two pros of bakers? • What are two cons of bakers? • A business owner baker must have skills in:_____?