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Baker

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AVG. SALARY

$28,950

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EDUCATION

High school preferred +

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JOB OUTLOOK

Stable

What To Learn

High School

What high school courses should you take if you're interested in this career? Get your answers from the Hospitality and Tourism cluster Restaurants and Food/Beverage Services pathway.

Beyond High School

Here's a list of programs that you should consider if you're interested in this career:

Education Level

Education training and experience are required at different levels for success in different occupations.

High school preferred, plus long term, on-the-job training

Bakers typically need no formal educational credential to enter the occupation; however, employers may prefer or require that candidates have a high school diploma, and some candidates choose to attend a technical or culinary school. Bakers typically learn their skills through on-the-job training, which may include participating in an apprenticeship program.

Insider Info

Additional Information

If you see a future for yourself in baking, there's no time like the present to start your training.

"Baking at home is a terrific way to become a better baker. The more you bake, the more you develop a sense for how batters, pastries and dough should look and feel," says baker Elizabeth Mitchell.

Working at home can help get you familiar with baking techniques, but nothing can train you for being a baker like working in a bakery. An entry-level position as a baker's assistant, food service person or clerk may be just the kind of experience you need to tell if this field is right for you.

"It's one thing to be able to make nice pastry, but it's quite another to be able to make mass quantities of pastry at 5 a.m. in the morning in a hot kitchen with 10 other people," says baker Melissa Thomas.

In the past, most bakers were trained on the job. Today, the best jobs go to people with specialized training in the form of an apprenticeship or other baking education.

"It's logical that such a high priority should be placed on proper training," says baker Justin Bloom. "This is a very complex trade and one should give oneself the opportunity to learn it properly with an experienced teacher."

There are about 800 schools in North America that offer education in baking and related culinary arts. Some are two- and four-year degree programs, while others are shorter, more hands-on courses in the methods and practices of baking.

Extra Requirements

Optional certification may demonstrate a level of competence and experience that makes candidates more attractive to employers. The Retail Bakers of America offers certification in four levels of competence, with a focus on several topics, including baking sanitation, management, retail sales, and staff training. Other organizations may offer credentials for specific skills, such as the American Culinary Federation’s pastry chef certifications.

For additional information, visit these websites:

Contact

  • Email Support

  • 1-800-GO-TO-XAP (1-800-468-6927)
    From outside the U.S., please call +1 (424) 750-3900

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OCAP believes that financial literacy and understanding the financial aid process are critical aspects of college planning and student success. OCAP staff who work with students, parents, educators and community partners in the areas of personal finance education, state and federal financial aid, and student loan management do not provide financial, investment, legal, and/or tax advice. This website and all information provided is for general educational purposes only, and is not intended to be construed as financial, investment, legal, and/or tax advice.