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Baking Associate Jobs in Union, ME (NOW HIRING)

American Cruise Lines

Pastry Chef

Camden, ME

An Associate's degree in Culinary Arts or pastry amp; baking, and/or 3-5 years of experience with an emphasis on quality production. * Basic understanding of professional baking and pastries and food ...

American Cruise Lines

Pastry Chef

Camden, ME · On-site

An Associate's degree in Culinary Arts or pastry & baking, and/or 3-5 years of experience with an emphasis on quality production. * Basic understanding of professional baking and pastries and food ...

All JobsBaking Associate JobsBaking Associate Jobs in Union, ME

Baking Associate information

See Union, ME salary details

$10

$16

$20

How much do baking associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for baking associate in Union, ME is $16.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.76 and $17.84 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

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 is the difference between Baking Associate vs Pastry Chef?

AspectBaking AssociatePastry Chef
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; food safety certifications often preferredFormal culinary training or pastry arts certification often required
Work EnvironmentBakery, grocery store, or food production facilityBakery, restaurant, hotel, or pastry shop
Job ResponsibilitiesAssist in baking, preparing ingredients, maintaining cleanlinessDesigning, 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.

Baking Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Baking Associate job openings in Union, ME as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 33% Full Time, and 67% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $33,617 per year, or $16.2 per hour.

Pastry Chef

Camden, ME

American Cruise Lines
Travel Arrangement Services • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about American Cruise Linesexternal

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

Pastry Chef
American Cruise Lines, the largest cruise line operating exclusively within the United States, is seeking talented Pastry Chefs to join our team for the 2026 season. Our modern riverboats and iconic paddlewheelers carry no more than 200 guests, providing a uniquely intimate small-ship experience along America’s rivers. With newly constructed vessels continually joining our expanding fleet, this is an excellent opportunity to contribute to exceptional culinary experiences nationwide.
The Pastry Chef should have the culinary expertise and experience to make a wide variety of desserts and baked goods, including confectionary work. They must be able to understand and appreciate the subtleties of flavor pairings and different tastes, as well as have a good aesthetic sense for food and pastry presentation. This position is responsible for adhering to the daily menu matrix consisting of desserts, pastries, breads and other duties assigned by the Executive Chef. The Pastry Chef must be creative and continually researching and testing new and different dessert and baking recipes to ensure that each guest and crew have an exceptional dining experience. While living onboard, our chefs enjoy comfortable living quarters and a challenging culinary working environment. Our galleys are well equipped with a spectacular view.
At American Cruise Lines, we are driven by our values—Optimism, Commitment, Patriotism, and Merit. These values shape our culture, our service, and our people, guiding us as we work together to Share America’s Story on the Finest American Ships.
Responsibilities:
  • Oversee creativity and prepare all desserts, bread, pastries, cookies, etc. required for vessel each day.
  • Prepare and serve items in accordance with established procedures, recipes, portion size, and presentation standards.
  • Set-up, maintain, and breaks down station according to FDA Standards.
  • Taste all products produced to assess quality.
  • Notify the Executive Chef of any product shortages or equipment maintenance issues.
  • Maintain accurate counts on all food items prepared to prevent discrepancies between amount of food needed and food prepared.
  • Schedule the production of all baked goods.
  • Always maintain an inventory of fresh baked goods.
  • Use food production equipment according to manufacturer’s instructions.
  • Maintain a professional appearance at all times.
  • Ensure that each guest has a positive and memorable experience.
Qualifications:
  • An Associate’s degree in Culinary Arts or pastry amp; baking, and/or 3-5 years of experience with an emphasis on quality production.
  • Basic understanding of professional baking and pastries and food amp; beverage knowledge.
  • Problem solving skills, organization skills, and self-motivation.
  • Commitment to quality service.
  • Must be able to pass a pre-employment drug test.
  • Must complete a criminal background check.
  • Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC).
  • Ability to perform the essential functions of the job with or without accommodation.
Work Schedule:
  • 7 days per week while onboard the ship.
  • 6-8 weeks working with 2 weeks of unpaid vacation.
  • This is a full-time, exempt position.
Essential Functions:
  • Ships experience forces from wind, waves, and currents, prompting them to exhibit six distinct motions known as ship motions. The six motions are surge, sway, heave, roll, pitch, and yaw. This position requires the ability to live and satisfactorily perform job duties in an environment that is subject to constant motion.
  • Ability to adapt and adjust daily to last-minute requests or changes.
  • Ability to multi-task and work in a team environment.
  • Ability to work calmly and effectively under pressure.
  • Ability to work around 12 hours per day.
  • Ability to assist in the event of an on-board emergency by quickly climbing up a ladder, opening, and passing through a 20” diameter hatch.
  • Ability to stand for your entire shift.
  • Ability to frequently lift up to 20 lbs. and occasionally lift up to 50 lbs.
  • Ability to frequently bend, squat and reach.
  • Ability to live and work on board a vessel for extended periods of time.
  • Ability to use stairs frequently.
Compensation and Benefits:
  • Competitive daily rate.
  • Health, dental, vision, and 401(k) with match.
  • Covered Expenses: American Cruise Lines provides travel, room and board, uniforms, and training.
Applicant Acknowledgment
By proceeding to apply for the above position, I acknowledge that I have read and understand the description of the job position for which I am applying, I agree that it accurately reflects the essential functions of the position, and I represent that I can complete the essential functions of the position.
Equal Opportunity Employer
American Cruise Lines is committed to providing equal employment opportunities for all employees and applicants. ‎American Cruise Lines bases all employment decisions on business needs, job requirements, and individual ‎qualifications without regard to protected characteristics, including, but not limited to, race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), national origin and citizenship, age (40 and over), disability (including perceived disability), generic information, military service, or any other protected characteristic under applicable federal, state, or local law. ‎This policy applies to all aspects of employment and employment decisions, including, but not limited to, ‎hiring, selection, job assignment, training, compensation, promotion, discipline, termination, and access ‎to benefits.‎
*Job sites across the nation.
**This job description is not intended to be a comprehensive list of the duties and responsibilities of the position and such duties and responsibilities may change without notice.

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