Baker Salary in Denver, CO
Bakers in Denver, CO, in 2025, earn approximately $20.54 per hour, which translates to about $821.60 per week, $3,560.27 per month, and $42,723.20 per year.
The demand for Bakers in Denver is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and increasing opportunities in the baking industry in the area.
How Much Does a Baker Make in Denver, CO?
The salary of a Baker in Denver can vary based on experience and skills. Below is a breakdown of typical earnings at different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.25 | $570.00 | $2,470.00 | $29,640.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.50 | $700.00 | $3,033.33 | $36,400.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $22.26 | $890.40 | $3,861.60 | $46,292.80 |
Do Bakers in Denver Earn Tips?
Bakers generally do not earn tips since they usually work behind the scenes preparing baked goods without direct interaction with customers. Their income primarily consists of the hourly wage or salary.
Baker Salary in Denver vs. National Average
Nationally, Bakers earn an average of around $16.83 per hour, translating to about $35,006.40 per year.
Compared to the national average, Bakers in Denver earn more, at about $20.54 per hour and $42,723.20 annually. This difference reflects higher local demand and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Denver for Bakers
Looking at nearby locations, Bakers can find the highest pay in:
- Baker: $21.00 per hour
- Highland: $20.75 per hour
Bakers considering commuting to these areas might find slightly better wages than within Denver itself.
What Influences a Baker’s Salary in Denver?
Several factors can affect how much a Baker earns in Denver:
- Experience: Bakers with several years in the field typically earn more.
- Skills and Specializations: Proficiency in artisan breads, pastries, or specialty baking can increase earnings.
- Type of Establishment: Working in high-end bakeries or hotels may pay better than supermarkets or fast-casual bakeries.
- Certifications: Food safety or baking certifications boost credibility and potential salary.
- Shift Timing: Early mornings or late-night shifts might come with pay differentials.
How To Become a Baker in Denver
Starting a career as a Baker in Denver includes several key steps:
- Complete a Baking and Pastry Program: Institutions like Emily Griffith Technical College offer comprehensive programs covering fundamental and advanced baking techniques.
- Earn a Degree in Baking Arts: Johnson & Wales University provides a Bachelor of Science in Baking & Pastry Arts with hands-on experience at state-of-the-art facilities.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: Certifications like ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensure knowledge of proper food safety practices.
- Specialize in Pastry Arts: The Certified Pastry Culinarian (CPC) credential from the American Culinary Federation validates advanced skills.
- Gain Practical Experience: Internships or entry-level jobs help develop practical skills.
Top Employers Hiring Bakers in Denver
Denver hosts several prominent employers actively seeking skilled Bakers:
- Safeway
- Whole Foods Market
- Denver Bread Company
Establishments That Bakers in Denver Work At
Bakers in Denver typically work in a variety of establishments such as:
- Casual and Fast-Casual Bakeries: May offer moderate pay but consistent hours.
- Specialty and Artisan Bakeries: Often provide higher wages due to specialized skills and quality expectations.
- Supermarkets and Grocery Stores: These employ bakers for large-batch production, offering stable but usually average wages.
- Hotels and Catering Services: May offer competitive pay and benefits for experienced bakers.
The type of establishment strongly influences earning potential, with artisan bakeries typically paying the most.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Denver for Bakers
Those interested in related roles might consider opportunities such as Pastry Chef, Pastry Cook, and Chef, which share overlapping skills and responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bakers in Denver
Bakers working in Denver should familiarize themselves with local and state labor regulations to ensure compliance and protect their rights.
- Information on Colorado's labor laws and employment resources can be found on the official Colorado government website.
- For local employment regulations specific to Denver, visit the City and County of Denver's official site.
- The U.S. Department of Labor's website provides federal labor laws and guidelines that also apply.