Baker Salary in Billings, MT
Bakers in Billings, MT, in 2025, earn approximately $14.88 per hour, which translates to about $595.20 per week, $2,579.20 per month, and $30,950.40 per year.
The demand for Bakers in Billings is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a healthy and expanding market for baked goods and specialty pastry products in the region.
How Much Does a Baker Make in Billings, MT?
The salary of a Baker in Billings can vary depending on experience and the specific employer, but here is a general look at earnings across experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.54 | $501.60 | $2,168.00 | $26,083.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.88 | $595.20 | $2,579.20 | $30,950.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.66 | $706.40 | $3,042.93 | $36,732.80 |
Do Bakers in Billings Earn Tips?
Bakers generally do not earn tips since their work typically happens behind the scenes and not directly interacting with customers. Their earnings are usually based solely on their salary or wages.
Baker Salary in Billings vs. National Average
Nationally, Bakers earn an average of around $16.80 per hour, translating to about $34,944 per year.
Compared to the national average, Bakers in Billings earn $14.88 per hour and $30,950.40 annually, which is somewhat below the national figures. This may reflect regional cost of living differences and local market conditions.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Billings for Bakers
When looking at nearby areas, Baker salaries vary slightly:
- Downtown Billings: $15.50 per hour
- West End: $17.60 per hour
Bakers working in West End can expect higher earnings compared to Downtown Billings, reflecting local demand and establishment types.
What Influences a Baker’s Salary in Billings?
Several key factors influence the salary of a Baker in Billings:
- Experience and Skill Level: More skilled Bakers, especially those proficient in specialty breads or pastries, generally earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in gourmet bakeries or upscale restaurants can yield better pay compared to supermarkets or fast casual dining.
- Educational Background and Certifications: Baking education or certifications often lead to higher earning potential.
- Shift Timing and Hours: Bakers who work early mornings or weekends may receive shift differentials or overtime pay.
- Local Demand and Cost of Living: Billings’ local economy and living costs affect wage levels.
How To Become a Baker in Billings
Starting a career as a Baker in Billings can be achieved through several steps:
- Obtain Formal Training: Consider programs such as the Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts at City College at Montana State University Billings, which offers hands-on training in baking and pastry arts.
- Enhance Skills with Continuing Education: Take advantage of non-credit baking and pastry courses available through Montana State University Billings Continuing Education.
- Earn Food Safety Certification: The ServSafe Food Handler Certification is often required and nationally recognized, demonstrating knowledge of food safety practices.
- Pursue Professional Certification: The Certified Journey Baker (CJB) offered by the Retail Bakers of America validates baking expertise.
- Gain Practical Experience: Working as an apprentice or assistant baker helps build essential skills and experience.
Top Employers Hiring Bakers in Billings
Some of the prominent employers recruiting Bakers in Billings include:
- Albertsons
- Great Harvest Bread Company
- Best Western
Establishments That Bakers in Billings Work At
Bakers in Billings commonly find employment in a variety of establishments, such as:
- Artisan and Specialty Bakeries: Offering higher wages due to specialized skills required.
- Supermarkets and Grocery Stores: Employ Bakers for bulk production, usually with moderate pay.
- Hotels and Resorts: Larger establishments that may provide better salaries and benefits.
- Cafés and Coffee Shops: Casual venues with varied pay scales depending on size and location.
The type and scale of the establishment significantly influence a Baker’s earning potential and job duties.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Billings for Bakers
If you are interested in careers related to Baking, there are several hospitality roles with overlapping skills and job functions.
These include Pastry Chef, Pastry Cook, and Chef positions, which involve related culinary skills and often offer different levels of compensation.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bakers in Billings
Bakers should stay informed about labor laws and tax regulations applicable in Billings and the state of Montana.
- Visit the Montana Department of Labor and Industry (state website) for information on minimum wage, overtime, and workplace rights.
- For federal tax guidelines, consult the Internal Revenue Service (federal website).