Assistant Bakery Manager

Harper Associates; Detroit (MI); On-site; USD 85,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid Time Off

Overtime Pay

Stable 5-day workweek

Job summary

Harper Associates in Detroit, MI is seeking an Artisan Bakery Production Supervisor to lead our artisan bread production and ensure every loaf meets the highest standards. You will supervise daily production, train staff, optimize schedules, manage inventory and costs, and drive continuous improvement in a fast-paced, quality-driven bakery environment.

The role requires a hands-on leader who can coordinate with the bakery leadership, and you will enjoy a 5:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m.

Qualifications

• Hands-on leadership of artisan bread production and fermentation processes.
• Ability to train, coach and develop production staff.
• Strong understanding of food safety, sanitation, and quality standards.
• Experience managing production schedules, labor, and inventory.

Responsibilities

• Supervise daily artisan bread production including mixing, fermentation, scaling, shaping, proofing and baking.
• Lead production from the floor, coaching and supporting the team while ensuring efficient workflow.
• Develop daily production schedules based on forecasts for retail and wholesale.
• Monitor labor efficiency, food costs, waste, and production performance.
• Train, mentor, and develop production and packaging team members; assist with hiring and onboarding.

Skills

Artisan bread production

Sourdough starter management

Production scheduling

Team leadership

Food safety/quality

Job description

Expected Schedule: 5:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

5-Day Workweek | Approximately 50 Hours per Week | PTO

Lead the Production Behind Exceptional Artisan Bread

Join a respected artisan bakery committed to traditional baking methods, premium ingredients, and exceptional quality. We're seeking an experienced Artisan Bakery Production Supervisor to oversee our artisan bread production operation, lead a talented team, and ensure every loaf meets the highest standards.

This is an excellent opportunity for a hands-on bakery leader who enjoys working alongside their team, improving processes, and producing outstanding artisan breads in a fast-paced, quality-driven environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Supervise daily artisan bread production, including mixing, fermentation, scaling, shaping, proofing, baking, and maintaining sourdough starters.
• Lead production from the floor, coaching and supporting the team while ensuring efficient workflow and consistent execution.
• Develop daily production schedules based on retail and wholesale sales forecasts.
• Monitor labor efficiency, food costs, waste, and production performance while maintaining exceptional product quality.
• Train, mentor, and develop production and packaging team members while assisting with hiring and onboarding.
• Maintain recipe documentation, production procedures, and food cost controls.
• Manage ingredient inventory to ensure freshness, proper rotation, organization, and appropriate stock levels.
• Partner with bakery leadership on process improvements, operational efficiencies, and new product development.
• Maintain high standards of cleanliness through daily, weekly, and monthly sanitation programs.
• Ensure bakery equipment is properly operated, maintained, and cared for through preventative maintenance and staff training.
• Enforce all food safety, sanitation, and workplace safety standards in compliance with local and state regulations.

Qualifications

• Previous supervisory or production leadership experience in an artisan bakery, commercial bakery, or specialty food manufacturing environment.
• Strong hands‑on knowledge of artisan bread production, including fermentation, dough development, shaping, proofing, baking, and sourdough starter management.
• Experience managing production schedules, labor planning, food costs, and inventory.
• Proven ability to train, coach, and motivate production teams.
• Strong organizational, communication, and problem‑solving skills.
• Mechanical aptitude with the ability to identify equipment issues and coordinate maintenance.
• Thorough understanding of food safety, sanitation, and quality standards.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced production environment with changing priorities.
• Flexibility to work a regular 5:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m. schedule while adjusting hours as needed to provide leadership coverage during vacations, holidays, employee absences, and other operational needs. Occasional weekend coverage may be required.
• $85,000–$90,000 annual compensation ($30-$35/hr + OT)
• Paid Time Off
• Stable 5-day workweek (approximately 50 hours)
• Opportunity to join a growing, quality-focused artisan bakery with an outstanding reputation
• Collaborative leadership team and a culture committed to craftsmanship and continuous improvement