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Baker Apprentice Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Cake Decorator

Hermitage, TN

$12.25 - $15.75/hr

As a member of the Bakery team, your primary responsibility will be preparing and decorating the ... Giant Eagle Apprenticeship program Education Desired: No High School diploma required Lifting ...

Cake Decorator

Bolivar, TN

$12.50 - $16/hr

As a member of the Bakery team, your primary responsibility will be preparing and decorating the ... Giant Eagle Apprenticeship program Education Desired: No High School diploma required Lifting ...

Baker Apprentice information

See Tennessee salary details

$6

$13

$17

How much do baker apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for baker apprentice in Tennessee is $13.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.08 and $15.29 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a baker apprentice?

Baker Apprentices are individuals who work under the supervision of experienced bakers to learn the skills and techniques required in the baking profession. They assist with tasks such as measuring ingredients, mixing dough, operating ovens, and decorating baked goods. Through hands-on experience and training, apprentices gain a foundational understanding of baking processes, food safety, and kitchen operations. This role is often the first step toward becoming a professional baker or pastry chef.

What does a baker apprentice do?

A Baker Apprentice works under the supervision of a Lead Baker to learn the necessary skills to eventually become a professional baker themselves. You will shadow and participate in everything from measuring ingredients, following recipes, mixing, forming bread and other baked goods, decorating, and even selling your final product. You also participate in the day-to-day logistical tasks, such as receiving orders and restocking ingredients. A Baker Apprentice works with a variety of tools such as fryers and mixers, so you will demonstrate the proper use of all machines and baking instruments. You are also in charge of cleaning up your workstation and equipment daily.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a baker apprentice, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Baker Apprentice, you need fundamental knowledge of baking techniques, ingredient handling, and food safety, often gained through vocational training or entry-level kitchen experience. Familiarity with commercial ovens, mixers, dough sheeters, and adherence to sanitation protocols is typically required. Attention to detail, time management, and a willingness to learn from experienced bakers are standout soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure consistent product quality, efficient bakery operations, and smooth progression to more advanced baking responsibilities.

What are some common challenges faced by baker apprentices during their training period?

Baker Apprentices often encounter challenges such as adapting to early morning shifts, mastering precise techniques for dough preparation, and maintaining consistency in product quality. The fast-paced environment requires strong time management skills, as multiple batches and recipes are often handled simultaneously. Additionally, apprentices must quickly learn to work efficiently both independently and as part of a team, following instructions from experienced bakers while developing their own skills.

What is the difference between Baker Apprentice vs Baker Trainee?

AspectBaker ApprenticeBaker Trainee
CredentialsMay require basic food handling or baking certificationsOften similar, may include on-the-job training without formal certifications
Work EnvironmentBakery settings, learning under experienced bakersSimilar bakery environments, focusing on skill development
Industry UsageCommonly used in bakery training programs and shopsUsed interchangeably, but sometimes indicates a less formal training role

The main difference between a Baker Apprentice and a Baker Trainee lies in the formal structure of training and certifications. An apprentice typically follows a structured program with specific credentials, while a trainee may be in a more informal learning phase. Both roles involve working in bakery environments and gaining hands-on experience, but the apprentice status often indicates a more formalized pathway toward becoming a skilled baker.

Can I be a baker apprentice with no experience?

Yes, many baker apprentice programs accept individuals with little or no prior experience, as they provide on-the-job training to develop baking skills. Employers often look for enthusiasm, a willingness to learn, and basic knowledge of food safety and hygiene standards.

How long is a baker apprentice's apprenticeship?

A baker apprentice's apprenticeship typically lasts between 1 to 3 years, depending on the program and the employer. During this time, apprentices learn baking techniques, safety standards, and may earn certifications while working under supervision in a bakery environment.

What are the most commonly searched types of Baker jobs in Tennessee?

The most popular types of Baker jobs in Tennessee are:

What are popular job titles related to Baker Apprentice jobs in Tennessee?

For Baker Apprentice jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Baker Apprentice jobs in Tennessee look for?

The top searched job categories for Baker Apprentice jobs in Tennessee are:

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Baker Apprentice jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Baker Apprentice job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Baker Apprentice jobs in TN?

For Baker Apprentice jobs in TN, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Baker Apprentice job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $28,897 per year, or $13.9 per hour.

Industrial Millwright - Capital Projects & Installation

Silver Hills Bakery

Rossville, TN โ€ข On-site

$22.50 - $29.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago


Job description

Silver Hills Bakery is looking for a skilled Industrial Millwright to join our team. In this role, you will install, troubleshoot, stationary industrial food-processing machinery. You will specialize in heavy mechanical equipment and rotating components, ensuring optimal operational efficiency and minimizing costly downtime in our high-volume, continuous production bakery environment. This is an installation role rather than a "maintenance role", you will set new lines and rebuild existing ones.
Detailed Duties & Responsibilities
  • Mechanical Troubleshooting: Diagnose and repair complex machinery failures, focusing heavily on heavy-duty rotating equipment like pumps, gearboxes, high-capacity mixers, compressors, and extensive conveyor systems.
  • Precision Maintenance: Perform advanced mechanical work such as laser/shaft alignment, bearing replacement, coupling installation, and seal repairs, ensuring all tolerances meet OEM and food-safety specifications.
  • Rigging and Transport: Operate rigging equipment, cranes, and forklifts to safely lift, move, and relocate heavy machinery and structural bakery components.
  • Fabrication & Blueprinting: Read engineering schematics and blueprints. Use machine tools, welders (MIG/TIG), and torches to fabricate or modify stainless steel and other metal components to support facility lines.

Requirements
Qualifications & Requirements
  • Education: High school diploma or GED. Completion of an accredited apprenticeship program, trade school, or a recognized Journeyman/Red Seal certification is highly preferred.
  • Experience: 2-5 years of relevant mechanical maintenance experience, ideally in a food processing, high-volume commercial bakery, or similar continuous-process manufacturing environment.
  • Technical Proficiencies: Advanced knowledge of mechanical systems, hydraulics, pneumatics, power transmission, and precision measurement tools.
  • Physical Demands: Ability to lift objects up to 50 lbs., work in confined spaces or on elevated platforms, and comfortably operate in standard industrial plant conditions (which can include heat from baking ovens, loud machinery noise, and flour dust).
  • Safety & Compliance: Strict compliance with workplace safety policies, including Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) protocols, and a strong commitment to maintaining food safety standards (GMP).

Benefits
Health insurance, Retirement plans, Paid time off, and Disability coverage