Bakery Technical Assistant / Operative

Job Overview

This hybrid role combines technical support with hands‑on bakery production. The Technical Assistant supports the Technical Manager and Technical Specialist with food safety, quality checks, documentation, and compliance tasks, while also working as a Bakery Operative to help produce high‑quality products on a daily basis.

The role is ideal for someone who enjoys practical bakery work but also has an interest in food safety standards, SALSA requirements, and BRCGS expectations.

Key ResponsibilitiesTraining & Knowledge Transfer

• Train bakery staff in food safety, allergen controls, quality checks, and best‑practice bakery processes.
• Mentor and coach team members to build confidence and technical understanding.
• Support the development of new supervisors or technical assistants.
• Create simple guides, SOPs, or training materials to help embed knowledge.

Technical Responsibilities

• Carry out daily GMP, allergen, CCP and metal detection checks in line with SALSA and BRCGS Food Safety requirements.
• Complete and maintain accurate technical records (weights, CCPs, cleaning verification, traceability) to audit-ready standards.
• Support label checks, specification updates, and ingredient declarations, ensuring compliance with UK food labelling legislation.
• Prepare samples for micro testing, shelf‑life trials, and customer submissions; record and escalate any deviations.
• Assist with internal audits and help prepare documentation for SALSA audits and BRCGS customer visits.
• Support NPD trials by gathering data, recording results, and helping with product assessments.
• Report non‑conformances, assist with root cause investigations, and help implement corrective actions.
• Help deliver basic food safety, allergen awareness, and GMP training to production staff.
• Maintain organised, audit‑ready technical files and ensure documentation is kept up to date.

Bakery Operative Responsibilities

• Operate bakery equipment safely and efficiently (mixers, depositors, ovens, etc.).
• Follow recipes, production instructions, and quality standards consistently.
• Carry out product handling, baking, cooling, finishing, and packing tasks as required.
• Maintain high hygiene and housekeeping standards throughout the bakery.
• Support production targets by working efficiently and communicating clearly with the team.
• Assist with stock rotation, raw material checks, and waste reduction.

Skills & Experience

• Experience in bakery or food manufacturing (preferred).
• Knowledge of SALSA standards and an understanding of BRCGS Food Safety principles (training can be provided).
• Understanding of basic food safety, allergens, hygiene, and HACCP.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy in record‑keeping.
• Comfortable working in a fast‑paced production environment.
• Good communication skills and ability to work with both technical and production teams.
• Competent with basic IT systems (Excel, Word, data entry).

Personal Attributes

• Practical, hands‑on, and willing to learn.
• Methodical and organised with a strong focus on accuracy.
• Positive attitude and team‑focused approach.
• Able to follow procedures and maintain high standards.
• Reliable and flexible during busy periods.

Why Join Us

• Friendly, long‑established family bakery
• Opportunity to make a real impact by developing staff
• Flexible part‑time role with meaningful responsibility
• Supportive team and positive working environment

Pay: From £13.00 per hour

Work Location: In person