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Baker Trainee Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Baker Trainee information

What is a baker trainee?

A Baker Trainee is an entry-level employee who learns the basics of baking in a professional environment, typically under the supervision of experienced bakers. Their duties often include measuring and mixing ingredients, preparing doughs and batters, assisting with baking bread and pastries, and cleaning work areas. Baker Trainees gain hands-on experience in baking techniques, food safety, and kitchen operations, which prepares them for more advanced roles in the bakery. This position is ideal for individuals interested in pursuing a career in baking or pastry arts.

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

To thrive as a Baker Trainee, you need basic knowledge of baking techniques, food safety standards, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with bakery equipment, measuring tools, and inventory management systems is typically required. Attention to detail, time management, and a willingness to learn are important soft skills that help you adapt and excel in a fast-paced kitchen. These skills and qualities ensure consistent product quality, efficient operations, and a positive learning experience in a bakery environment.

What are some common challenges baker trainees face during their initial months, and how can they overcome them?

Baker Trainees often encounter challenges such as mastering precise techniques, maintaining consistency in product quality, and adapting to early morning or overnight shifts. Adjusting to the fast-paced kitchen environment and learning to work efficiently alongside experienced bakers can also be demanding. To overcome these challenges, trainees should proactively seek feedback, practice time management, and embrace opportunities to learn from mentors and team members. Building strong communication skills and staying organized will help ease the transition and promote steady growth.

What is the difference between Baker Trainee vs Baker Apprentice?

AspectBaker TraineeBaker Apprentice
CredentialsOften no formal certification required, on-the-job trainingTypically involves structured apprenticeship programs, may require basic certifications
Work EnvironmentBakery settings, learning under supervisionSimilar bakery environments, with a focus on skill development
Industry UsageCommon entry-level position for those starting in bakingFormal training pathway, often part of a recognized apprenticeship

Both Baker Trainee and Baker Apprentice roles serve as entry points into the baking industry, focusing on skill development and hands-on training. While a Baker Trainee may not require formal certifications, a Baker Apprentice often participates in structured programs that may include certifications. Understanding these differences helps aspiring bakers choose the right path for their career growth.

Can you be a baker trainee with no experience?

Yes, many baker trainee positions are designed for individuals with little or no prior experience. Employers often provide on-the-job training to teach baking techniques, safety procedures, and use of equipment, making it accessible for beginners to start a career in baking.

How much does a baker trainee make?

A baker trainee typically earns between $10 and $15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the employer. Trainees often receive on-the-job training while working under supervision, and wages may increase with skill development and certification completion.

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

The most popular types of Baker jobs in Michigan are:

What are popular job titles related to Baker Trainee jobs in Michigan?

For Baker Trainee jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Baker Trainee jobs in Michigan look for?

The top searched job categories for Baker Trainee jobs in Michigan are:

Infographic showing various Baker Trainee job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Dining Service Substitute Trainee

Ferris State University

Big Rapids, MI • On-site

$15.05/hr

Full-time, Part-time, Temporary

Posted 8 days ago


Ferris State University rating

5.8

Company rating: 5.8 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

582nd of 622 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Dining Service Substitute Trainee

Apply now Job no: 498104
Work type: Staff
Location: Big Rapids, MI 49307
Categories: Staff

Position Title: Dining Service Substitute Trainee   Location: Big Rapids (Main Campus)   Department:

51800 - Dining Overhead

  Advertised Salary: $15.05 per hour   Benefits:
N/A   FLSA: Non-Exempt   Temporary/Continuing:  Temporary   Part-Time/Full-Time: Full-Time   Union Group: N/A   Term of Position: 9 Month   At Will/Just Cause: At Will   Summary of Position: This temporary position provides support in food service production by assisting in food preparation and other service needs in dining, working up to 40 hours a week. Duties will include preparing entrees and soups, short-order cooking, assisting with salad and bakery product preparation, warewashing and maintenance, and preparing service areas. Individuals in this position will be exposed to all food types (ex. shellfish, peanuts, & fruit) in an environment where industrial-strength cleaners are used. Work hours may vary, and you may be required to be on-call. Employees must be able to interact with students, staff, faculty, and patrons; project a positive image; and communicate effectively with others in a manner that demonstrates a desire to provide great customer service and reflects an awareness of the customers' needs. Individuals hired as a Dining Service Substitute Trainee may not serve in this capacity for more than 1 year and may not return to this position after the assignment has ended.   Position Type: Staff   Required Education: High school diploma or GED equivalency.   Required Work Experience: None required   Required Licenses and Certifications:     Physical Demands:
  • Bending
  • Carrying
  • Moving
  • Reaching
  • Twisting
  • Balancing
  • Lifting
  • Pulling/Pushing
  • Repetitive movement
  • Standing
  Additional Education/Experiences to be Considered: The knowledge to operate various commercial kitchen equipment, utensils, and machines is preferred. Six months of experience in commercial food preparation and kitchen work is preferred.   Essential Duties/Responsibilities: Assist other food service employees as needed.
Ensure that food is palatable and appetizing.
Cook and handle food in accordance with safe food-handling and sanitary requirements, following departmental sanitation policies.
Interact with customers and staff in a polite, friendly, and courteous manner.
Maintain equipment, pots, pans, utensils, and work area in a clean, orderly, and sanitary condition following departmental sanitation policies.
Minimize food waste. Follow departmental sustainability guidelines.
Obtain food from storage areas.
Operate various kitchen equipment and machines, and utilize utensils.
Prepare food for serving and ensure continued food availability.
Prepare foods using recipes generated from the computerized menu management system.
Respond to special dietary requests.
Set up and maintain food preparation area, food serving, and display areas in an attractive and sanitary manner.
To work various shifts, stations, and scheduled hours. Duties may include working weekends, holidays, and being "on call".
Remove trash, break down cardboard boxes, and assist in the University recycling efforts.
Train and direct the work of student employees in performing the characteristic duties. Carry out these responsibilities in accordance with University policies and applicable laws.
Maintain safety and sanitation standards in all duties and responsibilities.
Carries out responsibilities in accordance with university policies and applicable laws.
Cultivates an environment of belonging that values, respects, supports, and celebrates individual similarities and differences, allowing students, faculty, and staff to thrive authentically.
Support, promote, and develop university student enrollment and retention initiatives.
Any other duties assigned within the position classification area.   Marginal Duties/Responsibilities:     Skills and Abilities: Able to communicate effectively.
Able to interact with the public in a friendly, polite, and courteous manner.
Ability to learn how to cook a variety of foods in large and small quantities.
Ability to follow safety and sanitation standards and practices.
Ability to keep accurate records and perform basic mathematical calculations.
Ability to read, understand, and follow recipes, directions, safety labels, equipment operations manuals, etc.
Demonstrated successful experience working directly with people from diverse backgrounds, including cultural, educational, socioeconomic, and life experiences.   Required Documents:
  • Cover Letter
  • Resume
  Optional Documents:     Special Instructions to Applicants:     Initial Application Review Date:
August 19, 2026   Open Until Position is Filled?: No   Posting Close Date:
December 31, 2026   EEO Statement: Ferris State University, an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity employer, is committed to enhancing equity, inclusion, and diversity within its community. Ferris offers employment opportunities to qualified candidates seeking careers in a student-focused environment that values opportunity, collaboration, diversity and educational excellence.  Learn more about the Ferris Mission and community at ferris.edu. The University actively seeks applications from women, minorities, individuals with disabilities, veterans, and other underrepresented groups. For more information on the University's Policy on Non-Discrimination, visit: Ferris Non-Discrimination Statement.     Click here to learn more about working at FSU and KCAD.        

Advertised: 14 Aug 2026 Eastern Daylight Time
Applications close: 31 Dec 2026 Eastern Standard Time

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