A cake decorator job description requires a person who has creativity and a keen eye for detail. In addition, candidates for this position must also demonstrate manual dexterity and the ability to effectively realize design goals.
Position Description
Professionals in this industry work with customers in order to design and decorate a variety of cakes for various occasions by preparing icing and other ingredients, baking cakes in preparation for decoration, and overseeing the overall operation of the kitchen or bakery.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities of a Cake Decorator
- Packages, labels, and prices pre-made cakes.
- Maintains, cleans, and polishes the refrigerator showcase for pre-made cakes.
- Keeps display refrigerator showcase fully stocked.
- Keeps up to date with the latest trends in both flavors and aesthetic appeal.
- Fills customer special orders and quotes accurate pricing, both in person and by phone.
- Designs, prepares, and decorates cakes according to customer specifications.
- Delivers cakes directly to customers, when necessary.
- Cleans work area, washes counters and restrooms, and performs other cleaning tasks.
- Maintains and cleans the ZR freezer.
- Organizes stock in the ZR freezer.
- Calculates inventory and orders necessary ingredients and materials.
- Adheres to health and safety regulations by maintaining product freshness and sanitation.
- Actively sells baking products to customers.
- Provides courteous service to customers, when necessary
.
Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Is courteous, friendly, and pleasant.
- Exhibits prowess using decorating tools such as airbrush guns, modeling tools, and electronic mixers.
- Is numerate and able to perform simple math problems to follow recipes.
- Demonstrates artistic ability.
- Exhibits excellent customer service and interpersonal skills.
- Executes elaborate, attractive pastry designs.
- Is able to stand for long periods of time.
- Demonstrates above average manual dexterity; has a steady hand.
Education and Experience
For this position, a high school diploma or equivalent degree is required. Many professionals also have an Associate’s degree in pastry arts, art and design, or a relevant field, or they complete a certification program in cake decoration or pastry arts. These programs are highly beneficial as they offer candidates valuable experience utilizing decorating techniques and understanding the basic principles of baking. In a program, candidates also develop useful networks of professional relationships with practicing cake decorators and other beginners, which offers further opportunities for experience.
Work Environment
Professionals in this position can work in a variety of different environments, including in bakeries, restaurants, supermarkets, and hotels. Standing for extended period of time for more than eight hours per day is expected.The work week can last anywhere from 40 to 70 hours, including weekends, depending upon the work schedule and the employer. Decorators in grocery stores and smaller shops often deal directly with customers throughout the day.
Salary
A cake decorator is typically an hourly employee, earning anywhere from $8 to $14 an hour. The average salary for a cake director who works full time is anywhere from $17,000 to $32,000 per year with a median income of $23,000, though this depends upon experience, location, and employer. Professionals with an Associate’s degree tend to earn more, as do professionals who work in a grocery store rather than a bakery.
