Baker Position - Prep Cook
Waipā Foundation
Location: Waipā ahupuaʻa, Haleleʻa, Kauaʻi
Organization: Waipā Foundation
Reports to: Kitchen Chef & Food Coordinator (Nicole)
Employment Type: Part- Full Time 30-40 hrs per week
Schedule: Mon - Friday 6:00 am - 2:00
Compensation: 20 - 25 per hour depending on experience
About Waipā Foundation
Waipā Foundation is a 501(c)(3) Native Hawaiian Organization established in 1994, stewarding a 1,600-acre intact agricultural and ecological landscape in the moku of Haleleʻa on Kauaʻi's North Shore. For over 30 years, we have been committed to restoring Waipā's vibrant natural systems and resources and inspiring healthy, thriving communities connected to their resources.
Our organization serves over 1,000 lifelong learners annually through ʻāina-based programs, produces 750-1,000 lbs. of poi weekly, and distributes over 50,000 lbs. of food annually to our community across the island. We employ over 27 residents from our community, providing economic opportunities aligned with Native Hawaiian values and practices.
Job Summary
We are seeking a reliable and detail-oriented cheesecake baker and prep cook to join our team.
The ideal candidate will be a self-starter, able to follow recipes accurately, maintain a clean workspace, and work independently.
Working at Waipā Foundation offers the unique opportunity to contribute to meaningful work that strengthens food sovereignty, cultural preservation, and community connection to ʻāina. You'll be preparing baked goods and value-added dishes that will be sold through our self-serve fridge, incorporating locally-sourced ingredients from our ahupuaʻa and Kauaʻi community farms.
Key Responsibilities
Daily Baking Operations
Prepare and bake a variety of goods according to established recipes for self-serve fridge sales, including our famous poi cheesecake
Create value-added dishes and products for retail through our self-serve fridge
Maintain a clean and organized workspace, practicing "clean as you go" principles
Wash and sanitize all equipment and dishes after use
Follow all food safety regulations and procedures
Independence & Collaboration
Work independently and manage time effectively during early morning shifts
Contribute to a positive and collaborative work environment
Support general kitchen operations as needed
Collaborate with operations team to meet product demand
Required Qualifications
Ability to follow instructions and recipes precisely
Strong work ethic and self-motivated approach to work
Ability to work independently and manage time effectively
Commitment to maintaining a clean and sanitary workspace
Physical Requirements: Ability to stand for extended periods and work in early morning hours
Schedule Availability: Must be available Mon - Fri mornings
Transportation: Reliable transportation to Waipā location in Haleleʻa
Preferred Qualifications
Experience in baking (preferred, but willing to train the right candidate)
Knowledge of food safety practices and regulations
Previous experience in community-focused food service
Our Values & Work Environment
At Waipā Foundation, we embrace the following core values:
ʻĀina - That which feeds; caring for the land so it can be productive for future generations
Lima Hana - Work ethic; building humility and skill through meaningful work
Pilina - Growing connection to community and ʻāina
Kuleana - Responsibility; contributing to our community's wellbeing
Mākaukau - Being prepared, skilled, and efficient
Aloha ʻĀina - Love for the land that sustains us
Mālama ke kahi i ke kahi - Caring for one another
We seek team members who share these values and are committed to supporting Native Hawaiian community resilience, cultural preservation, and sustainable food systems.
Compensation & Benefits
Competitive hourly wage based on experience
Opportunity to be part of meaningful work that directly impacts community food security and local food systems
Professional development opportunities in ʻāina-based food production
Access to fresh produce and value-added products from Waipā
Supportive work environment with experienced, community-rooted team
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit:
Resume highlighting relevant baking and food service experience
Cover letter explaining interest in Waipā Foundation's mission and this position
Three professional references
Submit applications to:
Subject: Baker Position Application
