Baker Salary in Birmingham, AL
Bakers in Birmingham, AL, in 2025, earn approximately $15.90 per hour, which translates to about $636.00 per week, $2,756.00 per month, and $33,072.00 per year.
The demand for Bakers in Birmingham is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting positive job prospects and an expanding bakery industry in the area.
How Much Does a Baker Make in Birmingham, AL?
The salary of a Baker in Birmingham varies depending on experience and employer, but here’s a breakdown by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.40 | $416.00 | $1,797.33 | $21,520.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $13.90 | $556.00 | $2,405.33 | $28,912.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $18.10 | $724.00 | $3,128.67 | $37,648.00 |
Do Bakers in Birmingham, AL Earn Tips?
Bakers generally do not earn tips since their work is usually behind the scenes in a kitchen or bakery. Their income mainly comes from wages or salary without tip supplements.
Baker Salary in Birmingham vs. National Average
The national average for Bakers is around $14.50 per hour, which equals approximately $30,160 per year.
Compared to this, Bakers in Birmingham earn a slightly higher hourly wage of $15.90 and an annual salary of $33,072.
This difference reflects local economic factors and demand for skilled baking professionals in Birmingham.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Birmingham for Bakers
Nearby areas that offer higher pay rates for Bakers include:
- Downtown Birmingham: $16.50 per hour
- Mountain Brook: $17.00 per hour
These regions present Bakers with opportunities to earn more than the average Birmingham rate due to their economic profiles and consumer demand.
What Influences a Baker’s Salary in Birmingham?
Several factors affect how much a Baker makes in Birmingham:
- Experience Level: More years specializing in baking increase earning potential.
- Skill Set: Advanced baking skills, like artisan bread or pastry making, can lead to higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Specialty bakeries, upscale restaurants, or catering companies often pay more than grocery or fast-casual shops.
- Certifications: Credentials such as the Certified Journey Baker (CJB) or ServSafe Food Handler Certification add value and improve salary prospects.
- Work Hours: Shifts during busy or unusual hours may include premium pay.
How To Become a Baker in Birmingham
If you're aiming to start a career as a Baker in Birmingham, here are a few important steps:
- Enroll in Baking Programs: Consider institutions such as Jefferson State Community College Culinary and Hospitality Institute, which offers a comprehensive Baking and Pastry program that covers fundamental and advanced techniques.
- Seek Training Opportunities: The Culinary Arts Program at Lawson State Community College provides useful practical baking and pastry skills aligned with industry standards.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification are often required and demonstrate knowledge of food safety.
- Earn Professional Certifications: The Certified Journey Baker (CJB) credential offered by the Retail Bakers of America validates your professional baking skills.
- Gain Work Experience: Apprenticeships, internships, or entry-level positions offer hands-on experience.
Top Employers Hiring Bakers in Birmingham
Some of the top employers in Birmingham looking for skilled Bakers include:
- Publix
- Panera Bread
- Edgar's Bakery
Establishments That Bakers in Birmingham Work At
Bakers in Birmingham typically work at various establishment types, such as:
- Casual and Fast-Casual Dining: These places may offer moderate pay but with good opportunities for experience and steady hours.
- Specialty Bakeries: Usually provide higher pay due to the specialized skills required for artisan products.
- Supermarkets and Grocery Stores: Often hire bakers for volume product preparation with consistent schedules, but wage levels are usually moderate.
- Hotels and Catering Services: These offer potential for higher wages, especially with larger operations and special event catering.
The type of establishment impacts a Baker's salary through the level of skills demanded, volume of production, and brand reputation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Birmingham for Bakers
If you are interested in similar roles related to Baking, you might consider roles such as:
Included here are Pastry Chef, Pastry Cook, and Chef positions, which require overlapping culinary skills and may offer distinct salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bakers in Birmingham
Bakers working in Birmingham should be familiar with applicable labor laws and tax regulations to ensure fair treatment and proper compliance.
- Visit the U.S. Department of Labor official website for federal labor laws and workplace regulations.
- Consult the Alabama Department of Labor official website for state-specific labor statutes and employment resources.