Bakers mix ingredients according to recipes to make breads, pastries, and other baked goods.

Most bakers work in retail or commercial bakeries (manufacturing facilities), grocery stores or wholesale club stores, and restaurants. Work shifts often include early mornings, late evenings, weekends, and holidays.

Bakers typically learn their skills through long-term on-the-job training. Although no formal education is required, some learn through an apprenticeship program or by attending a technical or culinary school.

The median annual wage for bakers was $24,170 in May 2015.

Employment of bakers is projected to grow 7 percent from 2014 to 2024, about as fast as the average for all occupations. Bakers with years of experience should have the best job opportunities, with employment driven by the growing demand for specialty baked products.

Explore resources for employment and wages by state and area for bakers.

Compare the job duties, education, job growth, and pay of bakers with similar occupations.

Learn more about bakers by visiting additional resources, including O*NET, a source on key characteristics of workers and occupations.