A baker is a skilled professional who specializes in the art of baking, creating a wide range of baked goods such as bread, pastries, cakes, and cookies. Bakers work in bakeries, pastry shops, restaurants, hotels, and other establishments where baking is an integral part of their offerings.

The primary responsibility of a baker is to prepare and bake various dough-based products. They follow recipes, measure ingredients, mix dough, and monitor the baking process to ensure that the finished products meet quality standards. Bakers are knowledgeable about different types of flours, yeast, leavening agents, and other ingredients used in baking, and they understand how to adjust recipes for different batch sizes or special dietary requirements.

Bakers may specialize in specific areas, such as artisan bread, pastry, cake decorating, or cookie making. They use their expertise to create unique and visually appealing baked goods. This can include shaping and scoring bread, creating intricate cake designs, or skilfully decorating pastries.

Creativity, attention to detail, and a strong sense of taste and smell are important qualities for a baker. They must have good time management skills to ensure that products are baked and ready for sale according to demand. Bakers also need to work well under pressure, especially during peak times or when fulfilling large orders.

Becoming a professional baker can involve formal training at culinary schools or through apprenticeships. However, many bakers also gain experience through on-the-job training and practical hands-on work in bakeries.