Job Description

Full-Time Lead Baker - Niagara-on-the-Lake

Are you a passionate and experienced baker with an entrepreneurial spirit and a love for fresh, local ingredients? Do you dream of creating nostalgic, show-stopping pastries and cakes that make people say, "I have to come back for that"? We're looking for a talented

Lead Baker

to join our growing team--a true craftsperson who can balance following tried-and-true recipes with the freedom to innovate.

This is a full-time role at a well-loved Niagara destination, offering the opportunity to lead in a fast-paced environment while being part of a warm, homegrown team. Whether you're plating pies, prepping pastries, or building a custom cake, your attention to detail and creativity will shine.

About Us:

At The Grove, we're rooted in community. We celebrate local farms and producers, and we're proud to offer homemade goodness that brings people together. Our on-site hometown bakery is known for its farm-fresh ingredients, signature pies, and mouthwatering baked goods that feel like a warm hug. We craft custom cakes and excellent local wholesale partnerships, and we need someone who can help us take that next step.

What We're Looking For:

A

Lead Baker

who:

Has

experience in a high-volume bakery or kitchen

and can handle the heat--especially during peak seasons (June 1 - Sept 10 and major holidays like Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter, and Valentine's Day). Is

organized and detail-oriented

, ensuring every item looks and tastes just right, especially when preparing deliveries to local businesses and restaurants. Has strong baking fundamentals and can

follow established recipes

to maintain consistency and quality for our loyal customers. Has a

creative spark

, excited to develop new seasonal treats, pastries, and custom cakes (experience with fondant and cake design is a big plus!). Can

take initiative

, pitch in where needed, and

lead a small team

if required. Is

entrepreneurial

and eager to grow with us as we expand into new opportunities and wholesale accounts. Is comfortable working independently but also thrives in a team-focused, positive kitchen culture. Is open to

ongoing learning

and excited about food trends, with a commitment to quality, community, and innovation.

Special Grove Perk - Market Inspiration Day:

Every 12 weeks, our Lead Baker gets a dedicated day to explore local or nearby markets, bakeries, and cafes for inspiration and fresh ideas. A small stipend is provided to support this delicious research--we want you to stay inspired and bring those ideas back to our kitchen.

Key Responsibilities:

Follow and respect our legacy recipes while maintaining consistency and top quality. Create delicious new items aligned with our farm-to-table, community-first values. Prepare and organize baked goods for delivery to partner restaurants and businesses. Lead by example, help guide junior bakers, and ensure the kitchen runs efficiently. Maintain a clean and food-safe workspace at all times. Assist with the expansion of our custom cake offerings (especially fondant and finishing skills). Help us grow by bringing energy, ideas, and leadership to a collaborative, heart-filled kitchen.

Qualifications:

Minimum 2 years of baking experience

in a similar setting (bakery, cafe, or kitchen). Pastry or culinary education is a bonus, not a requirement. Red Seal certification is an asset but not required. Food handler certification required. Experience with

fondant

,

custom cakes

, and

advanced finishing techniques

is a strong asset. Comfortable with basic baking math, scaling recipes, and multitasking in a high-volume environment. Excellent communication and problem-solving skills. Fluent in English (spoken and written).

Compensation & Benefits:

Salary

: Competitive, based on experience.

Professional Development

: Financial support for ongoing training, leadership coaching, or personal development.

Therapeutic Treatments

: Health and wellness allowance.

Market Research Day

: A paid inspiration day every 12 weeks to explore and taste.

Team Culture

: We love to celebrate wins--company events, shoutouts, and the occasional bakery pizza party.

Perks

: On-site parking, store discount, and yes, occasional leftovers.

Schedule:

Full-time Weekends as needed Availability for holidays and peak seasons

How to Apply:

Please send your

resume portfolio

(photos or descriptions of your work) to

waymar.books@gmail.com

.

Join our team as a Pastry Cook where your creativity will shine through your culinary creations!

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $18.00-$21.00 per hour

Benefits:

Company events On-site parking Store discount
Work Location: In person