Job Spotlight: Cake Decorator

Customers know and love the Publix bakery for its delicious cakes and buttercream icing. But what about the decorations that make our cakes some of the most beautiful desserts you can find? Our cake decorators put the icing on the cake, literally! We had the opportunity to learn more about this position and what it takes to be a Publix cake decorator.

When it comes to special occasions and weddings, our cake decorators are known to design some of the most beautiful cakes that meet any need. However, there’s more to the job than creating the perfect cake design.

Decorators can’t add roses or cake borders without the proper tools! They are responsible for ensuring there is enough icing, decorating utensils and other supplies on hand. When supplies need to be ordered, they communicate with management to ensure the proper items are always stocked.

As you can imagine, our bakeries receive dozens of orders for customized cakes each week! Our cake decorators come in each day prepared to work in a fast-paced environment with a sense of urgency to keep up with the high demand. They work long days that usually start before the sun comes up to ensure each cake meets the customer’s expectations.

In addition to decorating and keeping stock of necessary ingredients and materials, cake decorators must whip up icing mixtures and color combos while following Publix’s high standards and detailed directions on specific ways to decorate. The key is to be consistent across all stores.

This skilled position is not one that is learned overnight. Cake decorators must have the ability to think outside the box (cake box, that is). They serve as subject matter experts when helping customers bring a cake vision to life! 

 Some important skills for cake decorators to have include:

• Organizational skills
• Time management skills
• Communication skills
• Creativity
• Customer service skills

Becoming a cake decorator.

Interested in becoming a cake decorator? All Publix decorators must have experience as a Publix decorator apprentice or equivalent work experience. You don’t have to be a Publix associate to be hired as a decorator apprentice, but our bakery team recommends getting your feet wet as a bakery clerk and then transitioning to the decorator role. This allows you to learn from your peers and teammates.

Decorating is no easy task! Publix cake decorators are constantly learning and trying their hand at new designs. Our biggest piece of advice for those interested in this position is to utilize free online resources and watch and learn from others who are currently in the role.

If you are interested in becoming a cake decorator, apply online and select cake decorator trainee. Connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and LinkedIn to learn more about the career opportunities at Publix!