Lead Cake Decorator / Assistant Bakery Manager
Position Summary
The Lead Cake Decorator / Assistant Bakery Manager is responsible for leading the cake decorating department while assisting with the daily operations of the bakery. This role combines artistic cake decorating with leadership, production planning, inventory management, quality control, and team supervision. The ideal candidate is highly organized, thrives in a fast-paced environment, maintains exceptional attention to detail, and is committed to delivering premium-quality cakes and outstanding customer experiences.
Responsibilities
Cake Decorating & Production
- Decorate custom cakes, wedding cakes, display cakes, and specialty desserts to company standards.
- Ensure every cake matches customer orders, design references, and quality expectations.
- Train and mentor cake decorators on techniques, consistency, and efficiency.
- Maintain a clean, organized, and food-safe decorating station.
- Monitor cake inventory and prepare display cakes as needed.
- Ensure all cakes are completed on schedule.
Leadership & Management
- Assist the Bakery Manager with daily operations.
- Lead the decorating team during the manager's absence.
- Assign daily production tasks and monitor workflow.
- Coach employees to improve speed, organization, and quality.
- Help onboard and train new employees.
- Promote teamwork and maintain a positive work environment.
Production Planning
- Review upcoming cake orders and prioritize production.
- Coordinate with bakers to ensure cakes are baked and ready on time.
- Communicate production needs with the front-of-house team.
- Ensure all custom orders are completed accurately and on schedule.
Inventory & Ordering
- Monitor decorating supplies and ingredients.
- Perform weekly inventory counts.
- Notify management when supplies need replenishing.
- Help reduce waste through proper inventory management.
Quality Control
- Inspect all finished products before customer pickup.
- Ensure cakes meet company appearance and taste standards.
- Maintain consistency across all products.
- Follow all food safety and sanitation procedures.
Customer Service
- Assist customers with cake consultations when needed.
- Help resolve customer concerns professionally.
- Ensure custom orders are accurately documented.
Qualifications
- Minimum 3 years of professional cake decorating experience.
- Leadership or supervisory experience preferred.
- Strong buttercream and fondant decorating skills.
- Experience with wedding and custom cakes.
- Ability to work efficiently under deadlines.
- Excellent organizational and communication skills.
- Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.
- Availability to work weekends and holidays as needed.
Skills
- Advanced cake decorating
- Time management
- Team leadership
- Production planning
- Inventory management
- Quality control
- Attention to detail
- Problem-solving
- Customer service
- Food safety knowledge
Benefits
- Competitive pay based on experience
- Paid vacation and sick leave (if eligible)
- Employee discounts
- Growth opportunities into Bakery Manager
- Supportive team environment
- Ongoing professional development
Pay: $22.00 - $26.00 per hour
Work Location: In person