Are you an experienced Baker with a passion for traditional artisan methods and high-quality handcrafted bread and pastries?
Join a thriving artisan bakery in Chatham, recently refurbished and rapidly expanding, with a second location opening in Rochester within the next month. This is a rare opportunity to become part of a dedicated, hands-on team producing exceptional French-inspired pastries and sourdough bread from scratch, with everything made in-house to the highest standard.
This is a physically demanding but highly rewarding role within a quality-driven environment where craftsmanship is valued over mass production.
The bakery operates both retail and wholesale, supplying fresh products daily and maintaining strict quality standards. You will be expected to work independently after training, especially on Sunday shifts.
Early starts are essential, with production typically beginning between 12:00am and 1:00am to ensure fresh output for the day.
- Salary: £35,000 – £36,000 (based on experience and commitment)
- Hours: 40 hours over 4 days (Thursday–Sunday)
- Shifts: Early starts (12:00am–1:00am), longer shifts to allow 3 days off
- Time Off: Monday–Wednesday off weekly
- Training: Full training provided in artisan sourdough and bakery methods
- Environment: Small, skilled artisan team with strong focus on quality
- Perks: Free coffee and pastries during shifts
- Growth: Opportunity to grow with an expanding bakery opening a second site in Rochester
A full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle is essential due to early start times and location requirements.
This role suits someone who is committed, passionate about craft baking, and able to work independently once trained.
- Artisan sourdough production following established bakery methods
- Production of baguettes, buns, and laminated pastries
- Assisting with pastry development (including fillings and new product ideas)
- Full participation in daily production from early morning starts
- General bakery cleaning and hygiene maintenance
- Working as part of a small team, with independent Sunday shifts
- Maintaining consistent quality across high-volume dough production
- Previous experience as a baker in a production or artisan bakery environment
- Strong understanding of sourdough and bread production
- Ability to work very early morning shifts (12am–1am starts)
- Physically fit and able to handle demanding production volumes
- Full UK driving licence and reliable transport
- Good communication skills and willingness to be trained in specific methods
- Strong reliability and commitment to consistent attendance
If you are a member of the Armed Forces Community, including ex-military personnel, reservists, Cadet Force Adult Volunteers, or military spouses/partners, please indicate this in your application.
Alternatively, you may email your CV directly to [email protected], stating the role you are applying for and outlining your connection to the Armed Forces.
INDCH