Some bakers work in kitchens in restaurants, grocery stores, and bakery shops. Other bakers work for companies that manufacture large quantities of baked goods. These packaged goods are then sold through establishments such as grocery stores. Both types of bakers perform similar tasks, but on a different scale. For example, bakers who work for manufacturing companies use large ovens and mixing devices. They follow recipes that produce large numbers of the same item.

Wages

	Total Employed	Average Hourly Wage	Average Annual Wage
National	176,080	$8.82	$18,340

Nationally, half of all people employed in this group earn between $14,630 and $23,720 each year.

Outlook

National

Nationally, the number of jobs for bakers is expected to increase about as fast as the average through the year 2008.

Preparation

Many bakers learn their skills on the job. They begin as kitchen helpers and gain food handling and baking experience. A high school degree or G.E.D. is not generally required for entry-level jobs, but it is recommended. People who have had courses in commercial food preparation will have an advantage.