Baker Salary in Des Moines, IA
Bakers in Des Moines, IA, in 2026, earn approximately $16.80 per hour, which translates to about $672.00 per week, $2,912.00 per month, and $34,944.00 per year.
The job outlook for Bakers in Des Moines is positive, with employment expected to grow by 5% per year, indicating a healthy demand for skilled bakers in the area.
How Much Does a Baker Make in Des Moines, IA?
The salary of a Baker in Des Moines varies by experience, skill level, and the employer type. Below is a breakdown of typical earnings by level of experience.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.20 | $568.00 | $2,457.33 | $29,536.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.80 | $672.00 | $2,912.00 | $34,944.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $19.40 | $776.00 | $3,353.33 | $40,352.00 |
Do Bakers in Des Moines Earn Tips?
Bakers in Des Moines generally do not earn tips as their work is primarily behind the scenes without direct customer interaction. Their income is mainly derived from wages and salaries.
Baker Salary in Des Moines vs. National Average
Nationally, Bakers earn an average of around $16.80 per hour and approximately $34,944 per year.
Bakers in Des Moines earn roughly the same as the national average with an hourly rate of $16.80 and yearly pay of about $34,944.
This alignment with the national figure suggests Des Moines offers competitive wages for Bakers given regional economic factors.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Des Moines for Bakers
Nearby areas to Des Moines offer the following typical hourly wages for Bakers:
- Downtown Des Moines: $17.50 per hour
- West Des Moines: $18.00 per hour
Those willing to commute to West Des Moines can expect to earn somewhat higher wages compared to downtown or central Des Moines, presenting attractive options for Bakers seeking top pay in the region.
What Influences a Baker’s Salary in Des Moines?
Several factors can influence how much a Baker earns in Des Moines:
- Experience and Skill Level: More skilled Bakers, including those proficient in artisan bread or pastry techniques, often command higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Specialty bakeries or upscale restaurants typically offer better wages than grocery store or fast food bakery positions.
- Certifications: Holding credentials like the Certified Baker (CB) by the Retail Bakers of America can boost earnings.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Early morning, night shifts, or overtime may come with additional pay.
- Local Market Demand: Strong demand in Des Moines supports steady salaries and some growth potential.
How To Become a Baker in Des Moines
Starting your career as a Baker in Des Moines can be achieved through several pathways:
- Enroll in Baking and Pastry Arts Program at Des Moines Area Community College: This comprehensive program covers bread making, cake decorating, and pastry techniques essential for Bakers.
- Complete Culinary Arts Program at Iowa Culinary Institute: Offers foundational culinary education with focuses on baking and pastry arts.
- Obtain ServSafe Food Handler Certification: This nationally recognized food safety certification is often required for food service positions.
- Earn Certified Baker (CB) credential: Offered by the Retail Bakers of America, demonstrating professional baking competence through education and examination.
Top Employers Hiring Bakers in Des Moines
Some of the leading local employers actively hiring Bakers include:
- Hy-Vee
- Fareway
- Casey's General Stores
Establishments That Bakers in Des Moines Work At
Bakers in Des Moines find work in various establishment types, including:
- Supermarkets and Grocery Stores: Often provide steady hours and moderate wages.
- Casual Dining and Fast Casual Restaurants: May pay competitively depending on customer volume and specialty offerings.
- Specialty Bakeries and Pastry Shops: Usually pay higher wages reflecting the skill requirements for artisan products.
- Hotels and Catering Services: Larger operations might offer better benefits and advancement prospects.
The type of establishment can greatly affect pay rates, opportunities for tips, and work environment.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Des Moines for Bakers
For Bakers interested in similar career opportunities, consider roles closely related in the culinary and bakery fields.
These include Pastry Chef, Pastry Cook, and Chef positions, leveraging related culinary skills and potentially offering different salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bakers in Des Moines
Bakers working in Des Moines should be informed about labor laws and tax regulations that apply to their employment.
- Federal labor laws and regulations can be reviewed at the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For state-specific employment laws and workforce resources, visit the Iowa Workforce Development website.
- Local business regulations and employment resources for Des Moines area can be found at the City of Des Moines official website.