Bakery Counterhand (F14/BCH/4)

Job Purpose

To provide excellent customer service and assist with the preparation, packaging, and display of bakery and confectionery products in accordance with Pick n Pay’s quality, hygiene, and presentation standards. The Bakery Counterhand supports the bakery team by ensuring product freshness, cleanliness, and customer satisfaction at all times.

Key Performance Areas (KPAs)

• Customer Service and Sales Support
• Product Preparation and Display
• Hygiene and Food Safety Compliance
• Stock Rotation and Waste Control
• Merchandising and Store Presentation
• Teamwork and Communication

Key Responsibilities

Customer Service and Sales Support

• Greet customers courteously and assist them with product selections.
• Serve bakery products efficiently at the counter or self-service area.
• Provide accurate information about products, ingredients, and specials.
• Promote daily bakery deals and value-added products.
• Handle customer queries and complaints politely and escalate where required.

Product Preparation and Display

• Assist with the preparation, packaging, labeling, and pricing of baked goods.
• Refill bakery displays and shelves throughout the day to ensure full availability.
• Maintain appealing and organized product presentation according to Pick n Pay standards.
• Check product freshness and report any quality concerns immediately.
• Support the baking and production team by pre-packing or decorating as needed.

Hygiene and Food Safety Compliance

• Follow all HACCP, food safety, and hygiene protocols.
• Wear correct Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and maintain a neat appearance.
• Keep counters, trays, utensils, and surfaces clean at all times.
• Follow cleaning schedules and complete hygiene checklists daily.
• Report any hygiene or safety issues to the Bakery Supervisor.

Stock Rotation and Waste Control

• Apply First-In-First-Out (FIFO) principles to ensure product freshness.
• Monitor expiry dates and remove stale or expired products promptly.
• Minimize waste by ensuring proper product handling and rotation.
• Record and report all wastage accurately.
• Assist with stock counts and stock replenishment when required.

Merchandising and Store Presentation

• Maintain high standards of product display and signage accuracy.
• Ensure pricing labels are correct and promotional material is visible.
• Support seasonal and promotional displays in the bakery department.
• Maintain a clean, attractive, and safe work and sales environment.

Teamwork and Communication

• Work closely with bakers, confectioners, and other bakery team members.
• Communicate clearly with supervisors regarding shortages, breakages, or customer requests.
• Cooperate during busy trading hours and assist with additional tasks as directed.
• Participate in daily team briefings and comply with work allocations.

Performance Indicators

• Quality, freshness, and visual appeal of bakery displays
• Customer satisfaction and service ratings
• Compliance with hygiene and food safety standards
• Reduced wastage and stock discrepancies
• Team cooperation and punctuality
• Adherence to Pick n Pay service and operational procedures

Health, Safety & Compliance

• Comply with the Occupational Health and Safety Act, 85 of 1993
• Follow Pick n Pay’s Food Safety, Hygiene, and PPE standards
• Maintain a clean and hazard-free workspace
• Report any unsafe conditions, incidents, or injuries immediately
• Participate in food safety and health & safety training sessions

Minimum Requirements

• Education: Grade 12 / Matric (NQF Level 4) or equivalent level of literacy and numeracy required to perform the role
• Experience: Previous experience in a bakery or retail environment relevant to the duties of the role
• Physical Requirements: Ability to safely handle bakery products and perform duties including standing for extended periods and light lifting
• Work Conditions: Ability to work in a fast-paced retail environment while maintaining hygiene and food safety standards
• Availability: Willingness and availability to work shifts, including weekends and public holidays, in line with retail trading requirements
• Process Adherence: Ability to follow food handling, hygiene, and operational procedures and maintain attention to detail
• Basic understanding of bakery products, ingredients, and preparation processes
• Basic understanding of food handling, hygiene, and safety principles (training will be provided where required)

Skills and Competencies

• Good communication with customers and team members
• Able to assist customers in a helpful and professional way
• Basic knowledge of bakery products and ingredients
• Pays attention to detail when packing and displaying products
• Able to work quickly and accurately in a busy environment
• Works well as part of a team
• Basic understanding of food safety and hygiene
• Able to follow instructions and work processes correctly

Behavioural Attributes (Work-Related)

• Shows a professional and customer-friendly attitude
• Reliable and on time for work
• Maintains good personal hygiene and neat appearance
• Works well with others and supports the team
• Honest and responsible when handling products and equipment
• Takes care in maintaining bakery and store standards
• Works in line with company values (Integrity, Accountability, Care)

Employment Equity Statement

We are committed to fair employment practices and the principles of Employment Equity. Preference may be given to suitably qualified candidates in line with the company’s Employment Equity Plan.