What are the responsibilities and job description for the Pastry/Baking Lead position at The Mill?
Location: Walla Walla, WA
About Us:
The Mill is a specialty food company focused on high-quality, ready-to-eat meals and baked goods for retail sale. We are committed to delivering exceptional taste and value to our customers through thoughtful recipes, seasonal ingredients, and sustainable practices. Our growing bakery program plays a key role in supporting our mission to provide convenient, nourishing food that connects people to community.
Job Summary:
We are looking for a skilled and motivated Pastry/Baking Lead to oversee the production and development of baked goods for our markets. This full-time role is ideal for someone with a strong foundation in professional baking, a creative mindset, and a desire to contribute to a growing food business. You’ll lead the execution of quick breads, cookies, cakes, sandwich loaves, artisanal breads, and seasonal desserts while playing a key role in shaping our baked good offerings.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead daily production of baked goods including sweet and savory quick breads, sandwich loaves, cookies, cakes, bars, seasonal items, and more.
- Develop and refine recipes to ensure high quality, consistency, and flavor.
- Produce sandwich breads and other components to support our grab-and-go and made-to-order programs.
- Ensure baked goods meet presentation standards and are packaged and labeled for retail sale.
- Manage prep and production schedules, ingredient ordering, and bakery inventory.
- Maintain a clean, organized, and efficient kitchen environment in compliance with all health and safety guidelines.
- Collaborate with the production chef and leadership team on new product launches and seasonal menu planning.
- Support onboarding and training of new staff or interns in bakery-related tasks as the team grows.
- Complete other tasks and responsibilities as needed or assigned, including regular cleaning and equipment maintenance.
Qualifications:
- 2 years of professional baking or pastry experience required.
- Strong knowledge of baking techniques, recipe development, and scaling.
- Organized, creative, and detail-oriented with strong problem-solving skills.
- Ability to work efficiently both independently and as part of a small team.
- Reliable, punctual, and committed to maintaining high standards.
- Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds and work on your feet for extended periods.
- Flexible schedule with availability for early mornings and weekends.
Work Hours:
Full-time, approximately 40 hours per week. Early morning shifts are typical; weekend availability required.
Compensation & Benefits:
- $18-20/hour DOE
- Paid time off
- Health insurance benefits available after 60 days
- Opportunities for professional development and skill-building
Opportunities for Growth:
As The Mill continues to expand, this position offers the chance to take a leadership role in developing our bakery department. You’ll have input in product development, seasonal offerings, and menu innovation. For the right candidate, there is potential for advancement into a management or development role as we scale production and explore new retail and wholesale opportunities.
Job Type: Part-time
Pay: $18.00 - $20.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Employee discount
- Health insurance
- Opportunities for advancement
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Compensation Package:
- Hourly pay
Schedule:
- Day shift
- Every weekend
- Morning shift
Work Location: In person
Salary : $18 - $20
