2

Entry Level Baking Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Front End Entry Level

Niles, IL · On-site

$14.60 - $16.45/hr

To truly be successful in the position, you will be passionate about baking breads, cookies, and pastries, as well as producing fancy desserts and decorating cakes. Our Bakers also have the secret ...

Baker

Chicago, IL · On-site

$24/hr

Baking of all breads, muffins, breakfast pastries, desserts and other bakery products and cookies. Pay Rate: $24.00 per hour. This is considered an entry level position. * Supply all areas with ...

Baker

Chicago, IL · On-site

$24/hr

Baking of all breads, muffins, breakfast pastries, desserts and other bakery products and cookies. Pay Rate: $24.00 per hour. This is considered an entry level position. * Supply all areas with ...

Baking of all breads, muffins, breakfast pastries, desserts and other bakery products and cookies. Pay Rate: $24.00 per hour. This is considered an entry level position. * Supply all areas with ...

To truly be successful in the position, you will be passionate about baking breads, cookies, and ... This is an entry level position with advancement opportunity. Applications are accepted on an on ...

To truly be successful in the position, you will be passionate about baking breads, cookies, and ... This is an entry level position with advancement opportunity. Applications are accepted on an on ...

Baker

Chicago, IL · On-site

$24/hr

Baking of all breads, muffins, breakfast pastries, desserts and other bakery products and cookies. Pay Rate: $24.00 per hour. This is considered an entry level position. * Supply all areas with ...

Lab Technician I

Niles, IL · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Friday - Tuesday 10am - 6:30pm Required Skills/Abilities: * Entry Level Position: We Are Happy to ... Previous experience in manufacturing, production, warehouse, food industry, food service, baking ...

Entry Level Baking information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$9

$15

$21

How much do entry level baking jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level baking in Chicago, IL is $15.35, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.88 and $16.83 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is entry level baking?

Entry level baking jobs are positions in bakeries, restaurants, or food production facilities that require little to no prior professional baking experience. These roles typically involve assisting with basic baking tasks such as measuring ingredients, mixing dough, preparing pastries, and maintaining cleanliness in the work area. Entry level bakers work under the supervision of more experienced bakers or pastry chefs, learning essential baking skills and safety procedures on the job. These positions are ideal for individuals interested in starting a career in baking or the culinary arts.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level baker?

To thrive as an Entry Level Baker, you need a basic understanding of baking techniques, ingredient measurements, and food safety, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, mixers, ovens, and basic food handling certifications is typically required. Attention to detail, time management, and a willingness to learn are essential soft skills that help you excel in this role. These skills and qualities ensure consistent product quality, adherence to safety standards, and effective teamwork in a busy kitchen environment.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level bakers, and how can they overcome them?

Entry-level bakers often face challenges such as mastering time management during busy shifts, learning to work efficiently with commercial baking equipment, and adapting to early morning or overnight schedules. It can also be challenging to consistently produce high-quality baked goods while following strict recipes and maintaining cleanliness standards. To overcome these challenges, new bakers should actively seek feedback from experienced colleagues, practice techniques regularly, and stay organized to manage multiple tasks effectively.

What is the difference between Entry Level Baking vs Pastry Assistant?

AspectEntry Level BakingPastry Assistant
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; basic baking skillsSimilar; some roles may prefer culinary training
Work EnvironmentBakery, restaurant, or hotel kitchensBakery, pastry shop, or hotel kitchens
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in food service and hospitalitySimilar; often overlapping roles in pastry departments
Search & Comparison IntentEntry Level Baking vs Pastry AssistantSimilar roles with slight specialization in pastries

Entry Level Baking and Pastry Assistant roles are similar in credentials, work environment, and industry usage. Both positions typically require basic culinary skills and are found in bakeries, restaurants, or hotels. The main difference lies in the focus: Entry Level Baking covers general baking tasks, while Pastry Assistants often specialize in pastries and desserts. These roles are often interchangeable depending on the employer's needs.

Can you be an entry level baking with no experience?

Entry level baking positions often do not require prior experience, as employers typically provide on-the-job training. Basic skills such as attention to detail, ability to work in a fast-paced environment, and familiarity with baking tools can help candidates succeed. Certifications like food safety may be beneficial but are not always mandatory for entry-level roles.

How much does an entry level baker make?

An entry-level baker typically earns between $20,000 and $30,000 annually, depending on location and employer. Starting salaries may increase with experience, certifications, and skills in baking techniques and equipment operation.

What should an entry level baker start with?

An entry level baker should begin with basic baking skills such as measuring ingredients accurately, understanding different types of dough, and operating baking equipment like ovens and mixers. Gaining experience through apprenticeships or on-the-job training and obtaining food safety certifications can also be beneficial.

What are the most commonly searched types of Baking jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Baking jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Baking job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $31,927 per year, or $15.3 per hour.

Shipping Associate / Forklift Operator

Turano Baking Company

Berwyn, IL

$21.65/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

New


Job description

Turano Baking Inc., has been dedicated to baking delicious and authentic European style breads for over half a century. Honoring the tradition and passion for bread making passed down through generations, the Turano family continues to innovate the baking industry with new varieties and techniques, providing the highest quality of specialty breads and rolls.Shipping AssociateStarting at $21.65/hourTraining provided | Overtime available | Fast advancement based on skillLooking for a role with strong weekly pay, steady hours, and room to grow? Join Turano Knead Dough as a Shipping Associate and help move finished product through outbound shipping and receiving operations in a fast-paced team environment.Shipping Associates support outbound shipping and receiving operations by accurately picking, staging, documenting, and loading finished products.This role is a great fit if you are dependable, safety-focused, and ready for physical work with overtime opportunities. Entry-level candidates are welcome, and we will train you on equipment and processes.What You’ll EarnStarting pay: $21.65/hourOvertime availablePotential to work up to 60 hours/weekOpportunity to advance quickly based on proven skill levelWhat You'll DoOperate the Shipping Department Dock in a safe, organized, and efficient mannerAccurately pick, stage, and ship outbound product per established proceduresComplete shipping documentation and paperwork as directedPerform inspections of inbound/outbound product, trailers, and material-handling equipment (e.g., forklifts)Communicate regularly with Shipping leadership regarding safety concerns, product quality, or equipment issuesMaintain compliance with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), food safety, and sanitation standardsWork EnvironmentCommercial bakery and cold storage* environment with temperatures ranging between 80°F and -10°F (*Time spent in cold storage may vary by shift and operational need - High-quality freezer PPE is provided!)Schedule RequirementsMust be able to work holidays and weekends up to 6 days per weekOvertime available, with potential to work up to 60 hours per weekQualificationsPower Industrial Truck (PIT) experience (preferred but not required – will train)Pallet end rider or stand-up counterbalanceStand-up reach truckTurret truckStand-up counterbalance Forklift TruckPrior experience in food manufacturing environments is a plusStrong attention to detail and ability to follow proceduresWillingness to work in a fast-paced, physically active environmentExperience LevelEntry-level candidates welcomeTraining providedCompensation & Pay ProgressionStarting rate: $21.65/hour with ability to advance quickly based on proven skill levelBenefits:· Medical, Dental, Vision & Rx· Paid Vacation· Paid Holidays· 401(k) and Safe Harbor Plan· Long Term Disability Plan and moreJob Type: Full-timePay: From $21.65 per hourBenefits:401(k)Dental insuranceHealth insuranceLife insuranceVision insurancePeople with a criminal record are encouraged to applyApplication Question(s):Are you able to work holidays and weekends up to 6 days per week and up to 60 hours per week?Have you worked for Turano before?Do you currently have any family members working for Turano?Were you referred to us by a Turano employee? If yes, who?Ability to Commute:Bolingbrook, IL 60440 (Required)Work Location: In person