Bakery Production Manager

Artisan Bread Production Manager

Search Conducted by Harper Associates

Detroit Metro Area

10am-7pm Shift

$90-$100K Base + Bonus & PTO

We're an artisan bakery known for traditional methods, locally sourced ingredients, and baked goods that stop people in their tracks. As we grow, we're looking for an experienced Production Manager to lead our afternoon bread production team and keep the magic running smoothly — every single day.

What You'll Do

• Lead all bread production hands-on — mixing, bench shaping, proofing, baking, and managing all dough starters in a lead-by-example style
• Build and manage production schedules based on sales forecasts for both in-house and wholesale demand, with an eye on labor savings
• Own end-to-end quality control: maintain and exceed labor and food cost targets, uphold all bread product standards
• Lead training for all bread team members; assist in hiring and developing bread and packaging staff
• Maintain and update the department recipe book and food cost models
• Manage ingredient inventory — appropriate levels, freshness, product use dates, and organization
• Collaborate with the GM to maintain morale and teamwork; consult with the Sales Team on new product development
• Establish and rework process controls in both bread production and packaging
• Oversee daily, monthly, and quarterly cleaning schedules — spotless equipment is the standard, not the exception
• Maintain all foodservice equipment through proper usage, preventative maintenance, and staff training
• Enforce health, safety, and sanitation standards in compliance with local and state regulations

What You Bring

• Proven experience as a Production Manager in an artisan bakery or specialty food environment
• Deep, hands-on knowledge of artisan bread techniques — fermentation, shaping, dough starters, baking — the full picture
• Experience managing food costs, labor targets, and production schedules against real sales demand
• Strong leadership with a track record of training and motivating hands-on teams
• Mechanical aptitude — comfortable troubleshooting and maintaining bakery equipment
• Sharp organizational and communication skills; able to work cross-functionally with GM, sales, and production teams
• Solid understanding of food safety and sanitation regulations
• Comfortable in a fast-paced environment with early mornings, weekends, and holidays
  

To Apply

Send your resume, cover letter, and any portfolio showcasing your work (Instagram counts!) to [email protected] — or hit Apply below.

Kevin Swanquist

Executive Recruiter

Harper Associates

[email protected]

248-737-0222