Baker Salary in Des Plaines, IL
Bakers in Des Plaines, IL, in 2026, earn about $17.44 per hour, which is roughly $697.60 per week, $3,022.93 per month, and $36,275.20 per year.
The demand for Bakers in Des Plaines is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy and expanding market in the region for baking professionals and related culinary arts.
How Much Does a Baker Make in Des Plaines, IL?
The salary of a Baker in Des Plaines varies depending on experience and workplace, but here's a breakdown of earnings by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.00 | $600.00 | $2,600.00 | $31,200.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.44 | $697.60 | $3,022.93 | $36,275.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.77 | $830.80 | $3,598.40 | $43,120.00 |
Do Bakers in Des Plaines Earn Tips?
Bakers generally do not earn tips as their work typically takes place behind the scenes, without direct customer interaction. Their compensation is mainly through wages or salary.
Baker Salary in Des Plaines vs. National Average
Nationally, Bakers earn around $17.44 per hour or about $36,275.20 annually.
Bakers in Des Plaines earn salaries that closely match the national average with approximately $17.44 hourly pay and $36,275.20 yearly pay, reflecting the regional market conditions and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Des Plaines for Bakers
Nearby areas offer slightly different pay scales for Bakers:
- Oak Park: $19.26 per hour
- Chicago: $17.93 per hour
Bakers considering commuting or relocation might find higher pay opportunities in Oak Park, while Chicago offers slightly above-average wages compared to Des Plaines.
What Influences a Baker’s Salary in Des Plaines?
Several factors can impact the salary of a Baker in Des Plaines:
- Experience and Skills: More skilled Bakers with expertise in artisan breads or pastry arts usually earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Those employed in specialty bakeries or high-end restaurants often receive better pay than in supermarkets or fast casual outlets.
- Certifications and Education: Possessing baking certifications or formal culinary education enhances earning potential.
- Work Schedule: Bakers working early morning or late-night shifts might receive additional compensation.
How To Become a Baker in Des Plaines
To pursue a career as a Baker in Des Plaines, consider these steps:
- Enroll in professional baking and pastry programs like the Kendall College Baking and Pastry Program in Chicago or the College of DuPage Culinary Arts Program in Glen Ellyn, IL for hands-on training and solid theoretical grounding.
- Get certified with credentials such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification and the Certified Baker (CB) by Retail Bakers of America for enhanced job prospects.
- Gain practical experience by working in bakeries, restaurants, or grocery stores to refine your skills.
Top Employers Hiring Bakers in Des Plaines
Some of the leading employers actively recruiting Bakers in the Des Plaines area include:
- Jewel-Osco
- Whole Foods Market
- Panera Bread
Establishments That Bakers in Des Plaines Work At
Bakers find roles across various establishments, such as:
- Casual Bakeries and Local Shops: These often provide a close-knit work environment and fair hourly pay.
- Fast Casual Chains: Employers like Panera Bread may offer more consistent scheduling though salaries tend to be moderate.
- Supermarkets and Grocery Stores: Large chains like Jewel-Osco or Whole Foods Market employ Bakers for high-volume production with competitive wages.
- Hotels and Catering Services: These establishments may offer higher pay due to specialized baking needs and event-related demands.
The type and prestige of these establishments influence the salary, with specialty bakeries and hotels generally providing better compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Des Plaines for Bakers
If you are exploring careers similar to that of a Baker, here are a few related roles worth considering:
These include Pastry Chef, Pastry Cook, and Chef roles, each involving culinary skills overlapping with baking and offering various salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bakers in Des Plaines
Bakers should be informed about relevant labor laws and tax regulations to ensure compliance and protect their rights.
- Check out the Federal website for labor laws and regulations for federal employment standards and rights.
- For Illinois-specific labor laws and employment information, visit the State of Illinois Department of Employment Security website.