The job market for bakers in the United States

There are currently an estimated 191,000 bakers in the United States. The baker job market is expected to grow by 7.6% between 2016 and 2026.

How employable are bakers?

CareerExplorer rates bakers with a C employability rating, meaning this career should provide moderate employment opportunities for the foreseeable future. Over the next 10 years, it is expected the US will need 22,100 bakers. That number is based on 14,600 additional bakers, and the retirement of 7,500 existing bakers.

Are bakers in demand?

The job outlook for bakers will be moderate, as manufacturing facilities increasingly use automated equipment to mass-produce baked goods. Population and income growth, however, are expected to boost demand for specialty baked goods including cupcakes, pies, and cakes. Employment opportunities should exist with traditional bakeries, higher-end grocery stores, bistros, restaurants, and hotels. Aspiring bakers should be prepared to work long hours – often starting very early in the morning – and spend many hours on their feet. While some bakers learn on the job under the apprenticeship of a seasoned baker, entrants to the field who undergo formal training and obtain a culinary arts certificate or degree generally have better prospects. Those who become certified by the Retail Bakers of America further enhance their employability. The available designations reflecting various competence levels are Certified Journey Baker, Certified Baker, and Certified Master Baker.

What’s the supply of bakers?

The baker industry is concentrated in California, Texas, New York

Baker job market by state