Baking Associate information
See Russell, KS salary details
$7.92 - $8.59
1% of jobs
$8.59 - $9.25
5% of jobs
$9.25 - $9.92
4% of jobs
$9.92 - $10.59
2% of jobs
$10.59 - $11.25
10% of jobs
$11.38 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$11.25 - $11.92
14% of jobs
The median wage is $12.43 / hr.
$11.92 - $12.59
18% of jobs
$12.59 - $13.26
12% of jobs
$13.61 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$13.26 - $13.92
17% of jobs
$13.92 - $14.59
14% of jobs
$14.59 - $15.26
3% of jobs
$7
$12
$15
How much do baking associate jobs pay per hour?
As of Aug 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for baking associate in Russell, KS is $12.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.20 and $13.51 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What is the difference between Baking Associate vs Pastry Chef?
| Aspect | Baking Associate | Pastry Chef |
|---|---|---|
| Credentials | High school diploma or equivalent; food safety certifications often preferred | Formal culinary training or pastry arts certification often required |
| Work Environment | Bakery, grocery store, or food production facility | Bakery, restaurant, hotel, or pastry shop |
| Job Responsibilities | Assist in baking, preparing ingredients, maintaining cleanliness | Designing, creating, and decorating baked goods; supervising baking staff |
The main difference between a Baking Associate and a Pastry Chef lies in their responsibilities and experience level. Baking Associates typically support baking operations with basic tasks, while Pastry Chefs lead the creative and supervisory aspects of pastry production. Both roles require knowledge of baking techniques, but Pastry Chefs usually have more formal training and experience.
What is a baking associate?
Baking Associates are entry-level professionals who assist in the preparation, production, and presentation of baked goods such as bread, pastries, and cakes. They typically work in bakeries, supermarkets, or food production facilities, helping with mixing ingredients, monitoring baking times, ensuring product quality, and maintaining cleanliness. Baking Associates may also package finished products and assist customers, depending on the workplace. This role is essential for supporting bakers and ensuring smooth bakery operations.
What qualifications do I need to work as a baking associate?
To work as a baking associate, employers typically require a high school diploma or equivalent. Prior experience in food preparation or baking is beneficial, and good attention to detail, manual dexterity, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment are important skills. Some positions may also require food safety certifications such as ServSafe.
What are some common challenges baking associates face during peak hours, and how can they effectively manage them?
Baking Associates often encounter high-pressure situations during peak hours, such as early mornings or holidays when demand surges. Managing multiple tasks—like preparing dough, monitoring oven times, and ensuring product quality—while maintaining cleanliness and safety can be challenging. Effective time management, clear communication with team members, and staying organized are key to success. Many bakeries also encourage cross-training, so associates can help each other and adapt quickly to changing priorities during busy periods.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a baking associate, and why are they important?
To thrive as a Baking Associate, you need a solid understanding of baking techniques, ingredient handling, and food safety, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent and sometimes a food handler's certification. Familiarity with commercial baking equipment, mixers, ovens, and point-of-sale systems is typically required. Attention to detail, time management, and teamwork are crucial soft skills that help maintain consistency and efficiency. These skills ensure the production of high-quality baked goods, adherence to safety standards, and smooth bakery operations.
$13 - $17.25/hr
Full-time
Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO
Re-posted yesterday
Brookdale Senior Living rating
5.1
Based on 527 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
206th of 239 rated social care providers
Job description
Recognized by Newsweek in 2024 and 2025 as one of America's Greatest Workplaces for Diversity
No Late Nights! Grow your career with Brookdale! Our Cooks have the option to explore exciting opportunities for advancement in positions such as Lead Cooks, Sous Chefs and Managers of Dining Services.
Make Lives Better Including Your Own.
If you want to work in an environment where you can become your best possible self, join us! You'll earn more than a paycheck; you can find opportunities to grow your career through professional development, as well as ongoing programs catered to your overall health and wellness. Full suite of health insurance, life insurance and retirement plans are available and vary by employment status.
Part and Full Time Benefits Eligibility
- Medical, Dental, Vision insurance
- 401(k)
- Associate assistance program
- Employee discounts
- Referral program
- Early access to earned wages for hourly associates (outside of CA)
- Optional voluntary benefits including ID theft protection and pet insurance
Full Time Only Benefits Eligibility
- Paid Time Off
- Paid holidays
- Company provided life insurance
- Adoption benefit
- Disability (short and long term)
- Flexible Spending Accounts
- Health Savings Account
- Optional life and dependent life insurance
- Optional voluntary benefits including accident, critical illness and hospital indemnity Insurance, and legal plan
- Tuition reimbursement
Base pay in range will be determined by applicant's skills and experience. Temporary associates are not benefits eligible but may participate in the company's 401(k) program.
Veterans, transitioning active duty military personnel, and military spouses are encouraged to apply. To support our associates in their journey to become a U.S. citizen, Brookdale offers to advance fees for naturalization (Form N-400) application costs, up to $725, less applicable taxes and withholding, for qualified associates who have been with us for at least a year.
The application window is anticipated to close within 30 days of the date of the posting.
Responsibilities
- Ensures proper preparation, portioning and serving of food according to standardized recipes and menus. You will use your prior experience with cutting tools, cookware and bakeware, combined with your knowledge of cooking procedures and methods of grilling, baking and boiling as a critical part of your role.
- Adheres to all sanitation and food safety standards. Maintains a clean kitchen.
- Prepares food in a timely manner at specified meal times
Brookdale is an equal opportunity employer and a drug-free workplace.
About Us
Brookdale is a Great Place to Be:
- Gracious hospitality and neighborliness for our residents and families.
- Home-like feel and all-around comfort for residents and visiting family members.
- Entertaining events and gatherings so our residents can find connections in groups and 1:1 settings.
- Industry leader in clinical care.
- Nationwide company with 589 communities as of November 30, 2025, offering many opportunities to grow and learn as a sales professional.
- Extensive corporate support including a robust training program.
What Brookdale Senior Living employees say
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About Brookdale Senior Living
Sourced by ZipRecruiter
Industry
Nursing and residential care facilities
Company size
10,000+ Employees
Headquarters location
Brentwood, TN, US