Senior Sourdough Baker

1816 Bakehouse; Ballarat; On-site; AUD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

1816 Bakehouse in Ballarat is seeking a hands-on Senior Baker to lead daily sourdough production with calm leadership and a commitment to quality.

You will work with a close team, mentor apprentices, refine systems and recipes, and help shape the bakery's strategy as it grows, while upholding the craft of slow-fermented, hand-shaped loaves baked on stone. The role demands early starts and a collaborative spirit within the team.

Qualifications

• Experienced baker with a deep knowledge of naturally leavened bread and artisan techniques.
• Ability to mentor bakers and apprentices, supporting growth and quality.
• Strong organisational skills and attention to detail to maintain consistent outputs.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily production and maintain quality standards.
• Manage fermentation schedules, dough development and bake times.
• Support and mentor bakers and apprentices.
• Refine systems, recipes and processes as the bakehouse grows.
• Bring new ideas to strengthen the range and efficiency.

Skills

Sourdough expertise

Mentoring

Leadership

Attention to detail

Calm under pressure

Job description

A hands-on senior position for a skilled baker who understands the rhythm of sourdough production and thrives in a collaborative environment where quality, consistency and calm leadership matter. You will work within the leadership team at 1816 Bakehouse, where every loaf is slow-fermented, hand-shaped, and baked on stone.

Key responsibilities

• Oversee daily production and maintain quality standards
• Manage fermentation schedules, dough development and bake times
• Support and mentor bakers and apprentices
• Help refine systems, recipes and processes as the bakehouse grows
• Bring new ideas to strengthen the range and efficiency

About you

• Experienced baker with genuine respect for craft and the people behind it
• Deep knowledge of naturally leavened bread and artisan techniques
• Strong organisational skills and an eye for detail
• Ability to lead by example while collaborating as part of a close team
• Calm, steady presence during early starts and busy days

About us

• 1816 Bakehouse is a respected, growing regional bakery where every loaf tells a story - slow-fermented, hand-shaped, baked on stone.
• Senior position within a respected, growing regional bakery
• Opportunity to contribute to strategy, systems and product innovation
• Modern facilities, high-quality ingredients and supportive peers
• Stable hours, strong culture and a long-term future in the craft