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)