1

Bakery Cafe Associate Jobs in Oak Ridge, TN (NOW HIRING)

Bakery Cafe Associate information

See Oak Ridge, TN salary details

$9

$14

$18

How much do bakery cafe associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for bakery cafe associate in Oak Ridge, TN is $14.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.32 and $16.11 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a bakery cafe associate?

Bakery Cafe Associates are team members who work in bakery cafes, assisting customers with ordering baked goods and beverages, preparing food items, maintaining a clean and welcoming environment, and sometimes handling cash register transactions. They may also help with stocking displays, packaging products, and providing information about menu items. Excellent customer service, attention to detail, and the ability to multitask are important skills for this role. Bakery Cafe Associates play a key part in ensuring customers have a positive experience and that the bakery cafe runs smoothly.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a bakery cafe associate?

To thrive as a Bakery Cafe Associate, you need customer service skills, basic food preparation knowledge, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Experience with point-of-sale (POS) systems, food safety certification, and familiarity with kitchen equipment are commonly required. Strong communication, attention to detail, and teamwork help create a positive customer experience and smooth operations. These competencies ensure quality service, food safety, and efficient workflow in a fast-paced, customer-focused environment.

What challenges do bakery cafe associates face and how can they be managed?

Bakery Cafe Associates often juggle multiple responsibilities, such as serving customers, operating the register, preparing baked goods, and maintaining cleanliness. Managing the fast-paced environment, especially during peak hours, can be a challenge. Effective time management, teamwork, and clear communication with colleagues help ensure smooth operations. Additionally, staying organized and attentive to customer needs enhances both service quality and job satisfaction.

What is the difference between Bakery Cafe Associate vs Bakery Counter Clerk?

AspectBakery Cafe AssociateBakery Counter Clerk
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; food safety certification often preferredHigh school diploma or equivalent; food handling certification may be required
Work EnvironmentIndoor bakery or cafe setting, customer service focusRetail bakery counter, direct customer interaction
Job DutiesPreparing beverages, serving food, maintaining cleanliness, customer serviceAssisting customers, ringing up sales, stocking baked goods

The Bakery Cafe Associate and Bakery Counter Clerk roles share similar credentials and work environments, both focusing on customer service in bakery settings. The main difference lies in responsibilities: Bakery Cafe Associates often prepare beverages and food, while Bakery Counter Clerks primarily handle sales and customer assistance at the counter.

How to get a bakery cafe associate job with no experience?

To get a bakery cafe associate job with no experience, focus on demonstrating a positive attitude, good customer service skills, and a willingness to learn. Highlight any relevant soft skills such as teamwork, reliability, and communication on your resume or during interviews. Completing a basic food safety certification can also improve your chances of being hired.

What are the duties of a bakery cafe associate?

A bakery cafe associate is responsible for preparing and serving baked goods and beverages, maintaining cleanliness of the work area, assisting customers, and handling transactions. They may also restock supplies, follow food safety standards, and provide friendly customer service in a fast-paced environment.

What job categories do people searching Bakery Cafe Associate jobs in Oak Ridge, TN look for?

The top searched job categories for Bakery Cafe Associate jobs in Oak Ridge, TN are:

What cities near Oak Ridge, TN are hiring for Bakery Cafe Associate jobs?

Cities near Oak Ridge, TN with the most Bakery Cafe Associate job openings:

Barista and Cafe Associate

Knoxville, TN

$12 - $14/hr

Part-time

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

Overview

We are seeking a Barista/Up Front Associate to join our team at the bakery. They must have a passion for pastries/coffee and creating exceptional and allergy safe customer experiences in a fast-paced environment.

Benefit Your Life Bakery is an exclusively gluten-free and peanut free bakery and cafe. Our kitchen is soy and corn free and we also cater to other major allergens and dietary restrictions, including but not limited to dairy-free, egg-free, vegan, paleo and keto.

We are looking to add another great person to our team. Applicants must be reliable and work well under pressure. The bakery is fast paced and you must be able to multitask while adjusting to the immediate task at hand. We take our jobs seriously as we deal with life threatening allergies, but our work environment is friendly and we have fun and grow relationships with coworkers as we work. As a small business, we get to know our customers very well and have frequent regulars that we build friendships with.

The position is perfect for a people person who is eager to learn more about the gluten-free lifestyle or someone who already partakes in it!

Shifts are Mondays through Saturdays and we are closed Sundays. Most shifts are approximately 7am-2pm (opening shift) or 9am-4pm (closing).

This position requires:

  • Availability during one or both of the shifts listed above
  • Making various espresso drinks and handling the espresso equipment
  • Understanding of Gluten Free products or eagerness to learn
  • Direct contact with customers to answer questions
  • Understanding customer food allergies
  • Ringing up customers on POS
  • Ability to multitask, daily tasks include assisting customers, making smoothies & sandwiches, cleaning and dishes
  • Organizing and rotating stock
  • Positive attitude and cheerful disposition
  • Following established dress code
  • Weekday and Saturday availability required

Work Includes

  • Weekends (We are always closed Sundays)
  • Some Holidays and/or dates leading up to holidays. (We are closed on the day-of all major holidays)

Paid Training:

  • Yes

Pay frequency:

  • Every week

Pay is hourly + tips for all staff members!

Job Types: Full-time, Part-time

Pay: $12.00 - $14.00 per hour depending on experience

Expected hours:

35 – 37 hrs per week, Full Time

25-30 hrs per week, Full/Part time

15-20 hrs per week, Part Time

Application Question(s):

  • Are you at least 18 years of age or older?

Duties

- Prepare and serve a variety of coffee drinks following recipes

- Operate espresso machines and other equipment

-Making sandwiches, smoothies, serving pastries

- Maintain a clean and organized workspace (doing dishes, cleaning)

- Take customer orders and handle transactions using POS systems

- Provide excellent customer service by engaging with customers in a friendly manner

- Assist with food preparation and handling as needed

Qualifications

- Prior experience in the food industry, particularly in a café setting, is preferred

- Knowledge of food safety practices and regulations

- Strong sales skills to promote products and upsell to customers

- Excellent customer service skills with the ability to communicate effectively

-Basic knowledge of the severity of food allergies and cross contamination a plus

- Familiarity with POS systems is a plus

Join our team and be part of creating a welcoming atmosphere where customers can enjoy delicious coffee drinks and pastries crafted with care.

Job Types: Full-time and Part-time positions available

Ability to Commute:

  • Knoxville, TN 37922 (Required)

Work Location: In person


By applying to this job, you agree to receive periodic text messages from this employer and Homebase about your pending job application. Opt out anytime. Msg & data rates may apply.
Powered by Homebase. Free employee scheduling, time clock and hiring tools.