Baker Salary in Columbus, GA
Bakers in Columbus, GA, in 2026, earn approximately $13.90 per hour, which translates to about $556.00 per week, $2,409.33 per month, and $28,912.00 per year.
The demand for Bakers in Columbus is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting positive job growth and opportunities in the baking industry within the region.
How Much Does a Baker Make in Columbus, GA?
The salary of a Baker in Columbus can vary based on experience and expertise. Below is a breakdown of estimated earnings by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.50 | $420.00 | $1,820.00 | $21,840.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.10 | $564.00 | $2,436.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Bakers in Columbus, GA Earn Tips?
Bakers generally do not earn tips as their work is performed behind the scenes, without direct customer service. Their compensation is typically based solely on wages or salary.
Baker Salary in Columbus, GA vs. National Average
Nationally, Bakers earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, which equals approximately $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Bakers in Columbus earn slightly less hourly at $13.90 per hour and about $28,912 annually, reflecting regional cost of living and market variances.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Columbus, GA for Bakers
Some of the higher-paying local areas around Columbus include:
- Downtown Columbus: $15.50 per hour
- Midtown Columbus: $17.60 per hour
These areas may offer better pay opportunities for Bakers willing to commute or work within these parts of Columbus.
What Influences a Baker’s Salary in Columbus, GA?
Several factors can influence how much a Baker can earn:
- Experience and Skill Level: Bakers with advanced skills and more years of experience command higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: Working at gourmet bakeries or quality restaurants may pay more than large supermarkets or fast casual outlets.
- Certifications and Education: Professional baking certifications can boost earning potential.
- Shift Timing: Bakers working early morning or night shifts may receive shift differentials increasing their pay.
- Local Economic Conditions: Regional cost of living and industry demand impact salaries.
How To Become a Baker in Columbus, GA
To pursue a career as a Baker in Columbus, one can consider the following steps:
- Complete Formal Training: Programs like the Columbus Technical College Culinary Arts Program provide comprehensive training in baking and pastry arts, preparing students for professional baking careers.
- Attend Workshops: Specialized workshops such as the Artisan Baking Workshops at RiverCenter for the Performing Arts can enhance particular baking skills.
- Obtain Certifications: Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification or becoming a Certified Baker (CB) by Retail Bakers of America demonstrate food safety knowledge and baking expertise and improve job prospects.
- Gain Practical Experience: Starting in entry-level roles and progressing through apprenticeships helps develop necessary skills.
Top Employers Hiring Bakers in Columbus, GA
Bakers seeking employment in Columbus can find opportunities at notable employers such as:
- Publix
- Sam's Club
- Texas Roadhouse
Establishments That Bakers in Columbus, GA Work At
Bakers in Columbus typically find work in a range of establishments including:
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: These venues often offer entry to mid-level salaries depending on location and volume of business.
- Supermarkets and Grocery Stores: Larger retail establishments hire bakers for mass production, often paying moderate wages.
- Specialty and Artisan Bakeries: These establishments often pay higher wages that reflect advanced skills and product quality.
- Hotels and Catering Companies: Larger operations may provide more consistent hours and benefits along with competitive salaries.
The type of establishment significantly influences earnings, with artisan bakeries and hotels generally offering higher pay compared to fast casual outlets.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Columbus, GA for Bakers
If you are interested in roles related to baking, consider these similar careers:
These include Pastry Chef, Pastry Cook, and Chef roles, which involve related culinary skills with varying salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bakers in Columbus, GA
Understanding labor laws and tax obligations is important for Bakers working in Columbus, GA.
- Information about federal labor laws can be found on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- The Georgia Department of Labor website offers state-specific employment laws and services.
- Local regulations and worker rights are available on the Columbus, GA government website.
