Baker Salary in Chico, CA
Bakers in Chico, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $16.37 per hour, which translates to about $654.80 per week, $2,837.47 per month, and $34,049.60 per year.
The demand for Bakers in Chico is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook for job opportunities in this baking profession within the area.
How Much Does a Baker Make in Chico, CA?
The salary of a Baker in Chico can vary depending on experience and employer, but the table below provides a general overview at different levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.80 | $592.00 | $2,559.33 | $30,712.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.37 | $654.80 | $2,837.47 | $34,049.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $23.00 | $920.00 | $3,966.67 | $47,840.00 |
Do Bakers in Chico Earn Tips?
Bakers typically do not earn tips as their work is usually behind the scenes in the kitchen or bakery. Their income is generally based solely on hourly wages or salary without additional tip compensation.
Baker Salary in Chico vs. National Average
Nationally, Bakers earn an average of about $16.80 per hour, amounting to roughly $34,944 per year.
Bakers in Chico earn slightly less, with an average hourly wage of $16.37 and an annual income of about $34,049.60. This minor difference can be influenced by local economic factors and regional cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Chico for Bakers
When considering nearby areas, Bakers can find varying salary rates:
- Downtown Chico: $17.50 per hour
- South Chico: $16.80 per hour
Those working in Downtown Chico may benefit from higher pay compared to other areas, reflecting demand or business types in the vicinity.
What Influences a Baker’s Salary in Chico?
Several factors impact how much Bakers can earn in Chico:
- Experience and Skill Level: Bakers with more experience or specialized skills, like artisan bread making or pastry expertise, tend to command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Employment in upscale bakeries, hotels, or specialty pastry shops typically offers better compensation than casual or fast food bakeries.
- Certifications and Training: Holding certifications such as the Certified Journey Baker can boost earning potential.
- Shift Timing: Working early morning or late shifts might come with shift differential pay.
- Local Economic Conditions: The cost of living and demand for baked goods locally affect salaries.
How To Become a Baker in Chico
To pursue a Baker career in Chico, you can follow these steps:
- Enroll in Culinary or Baking Programs: Butte College offers an excellent Culinary Arts Program including baking and pastry courses, which provide valuable hands-on skills.
- Consider a Food Science Degree: California State University, Chico provides a Food Science and Nutrition program that covers food preparation and safety, useful for Bakers.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: The ServSafe Food Handler Certification is important for Bakers to confirm their knowledge of food safety practices, which is often required by employers in California.
- Earn Professional Baking Certifications: The Certified Journey Baker (CJB) designation from the Retail Bakers of America validates baking expertise and can improve job prospects.
Top Employers Hiring Bakers in Chico
Some major employers in Chico looking for skilled Bakers include:
- Albertsons
- California State University, Chico
- Safeway
Establishments That Bakers in Chico Work At
Bakers in Chico often find roles within various establishments such as:
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: These venues usually offer steady work but may offer lower pay compared to specialty bakeries.
- Grocery Stores and Supermarkets: Large chains like Albertsons provide opportunities for baking on a larger scale, often with consistent schedules and benefits.
- Boutique and Specialty Bakeries: These often pay more due to their focus on artisan or custom baked goods requiring advanced skills.
- Hotels and Catering Companies: Typically offering higher wages and chances for career growth due to the scale and sophistication of baking needs.
The specific type of establishment greatly influences salary levels based on skill demands and customer expectations.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Chico for Bakers
Bakers may also consider related careers that share similar skills and work environments:
These careers include Pastry Chef, Pastry Cook, and Chef, all of which require culinary expertise and may have different earning ranges and work environments.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bakers in Chico
Bakers should be knowledgeable about labor laws and tax regulations to protect their rights and comply with legal requirements:
- Refer to the California Department of Industrial Relations - State labor laws and regulations for information on wage laws, working conditions, and overtime rules.
- The California Employment Development Department provides resources on state employment services, unemployment insurance, and payroll taxes.
- For federal data and guidance, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics is a valuable resource for employment statistics and wage information.