Senior Baker

Don Rodrigo Sourdough Factory

Established in the Nelson/Tasman region, Don Rodrigo Sourdough Factory is an artisan bakery specialising in traditional sourdough and handcrafted breads. We supply selected supermarkets and food distributors and operate our own retail shop in Richmond Mall.

We are seeking an experienced Baker to join our production team in a permanent role.

This is an opportunity to become part of a dedicated bakery where craft, consistency, and respect for traditional methods are at the heart of everything we do.

You will work under the supervision of our Head Baker, with the expectation of gradually transitioning to independent work and full responsibility in your area.

• Tuesday to Friday: 8:00am – 4:00pm
• Saturday: 5:00am – 1:00pm

(Hours may vary depending on production requirements.)

The Role

This is a hands-on artisan baking position involving the preparation and production of sourdough breads and pastries to a consistently high standard.

Responsibilities also include packing, general production duties, and maintaining a clean, organised, and disciplined workspace.

• Artisan dough mixing (hand and machine)
• Understanding hydration, dough structure, and consistency
• Precision scaling and ingredient control
• Dough development and gluten structure (including windowpane assessment)
• Bulk fermentation management and control
• Dividing, rounding, and pre-shaping with consistency
• Shaping techniques (boules, batards, tins, rolls)
• Controlled proofing (time, temperature, humidity)
• Scoring with accuracy and intention (lame technique and pattern design)
• Oven management, loading, and steam control
• Baking time and temperature mastery
• Sourdough starter maintenance and fermentation management
• Sensitivity to fermentation development (reading dough)
• Long fermentation and cold retardation techniques
• Ability to adapt processes to seasonal and environmental changes
• Laminated dough production (croissants, Danish pastries)
• Tray preparation and production consistency
• Finishing standards and presentation detail

We are committed to maintaining a safe and professional workplace. All applicants must be willing to undergo a pre-employment drug and alcohol test.

This role is suited to a baker who values craft, discipline, and long-term growth within artisan production. Ongoing support and development will be provided for the right individual who demonstrates commitment and attention to detail.

To Apply

Please submit your CV and a brief cover letter via email or Trade Me.

NOTES:

• No phone enquiries. Applications will close once the position is filled. Only applications including a cover letter will be considered.
• This position requires full legal entitlement to work in New Zealand, as we are unable to provide visa sponsorship at the moment.