Baker Salary in Durham, NC
Bakers in Durham, NC, in 2025, earn approximately $15.67 per hour, which translates to about $626.80 per week, $2,716.13 per month, and $32,593.60 per year.
The demand for Bakers in Durham is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and increasing opportunities for those entering this profession.
How Much Does a Baker Make in Durham, NC?
The salary of a Baker in Durham varies with experience and the employer’s nature. Below is the breakdown of typical earnings by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.16 | $486.40 | $2,100.53 | $25,292.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.67 | $626.80 | $2,716.13 | $32,593.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.21 | $808.40 | $3,481.33 | $41,036.80 |
Do Bakers in Durham Earn Tips?
Bakers generally do not earn tips as their work is usually done in the kitchen without direct customer interaction. Their compensation comes mainly from their hourly wage or salary.
Baker Salary in Durham vs. National Average
Nationally, Bakers earn an average of approximately $16.85 per hour, which equals about $35,048 per year.
Compared to the national average, Bakers in Durham earn slightly less, making approximately $15.67 per hour and $32,593.60 annually.
This difference can be influenced by the lower cost of living in Durham and regional demand dynamics.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Durham for Bakers
Looking at nearby areas, Baker salaries differ somewhat:
- Downtown Durham: $16.50 per hour
- Southpoint: $17.00 per hour
Bakers working in Southpoint tend to earn the highest hourly rates near Durham, reflecting localized demand and establishment types.
What Influences a Baker’s Salary in Durham?
Several key factors impact a Baker’s earnings in Durham:
- Experience and Skills: Advanced baking techniques and years of experience can boost pay.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale bakeries or chain stores may offer different salary levels.
- Certifications and Education: Having formal culinary or baking credentials tends to increase earning potential.
- Shift Hours: Early morning or overnight shifts may have shift differentials.
- Local Economic Conditions: Regionally, wages reflect local demand and living costs.
How To Become a Baker in Durham
To pursue a career as a Baker in Durham, consider the following steps:
- Enroll in Culinary Programs: Schools like Durham Technical Community College Culinary Arts Program and Wake Technical Community College Baking and Pastry Arts Program offer professional training suited for aspiring Bakers.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications like ServSafe Food Handler Certification are often mandatory in food service roles.
- Earn Specialty Certifications: The Certified Pastry Culinarian (CPC) credential from the American Culinary Federation can validate advanced skills.
- Gain Practical Experience: Working in bakeries or restaurants helps develop expertise and opens career opportunities.
Top Employers Hiring Bakers in Durham
Durham’s notable employers recruiting Bakers include:
- Harris Teeter
- Panera Bread
- Texas Roadhouse
- Publix
Establishments That Bakers in Durham Work At
Bakers in Durham typically find jobs at various types of food establishments:
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: Often providing steady work, though pay may be moderate.
- Supermarkets and Grocery Stores: May offer consistent hours with standard pay scales.
- Specialty Bakeries and Artisan Shops: These often provide higher wages linked to baking craftsmanship.
- Hotels and Catering Companies: Larger businesses can offer higher salaries and benefits.
Each type of establishment influences salary based on its size, reputation, and client expectations.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Durham for Bakers
Individuals interested in the Baking profession might also consider related roles that leverage culinary skills.
Among these are Pastry Chef, Pastry Cook, and Chef, each involving specialized culinary knowledge and their own salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bakers in Durham
Bakers should familiarize themselves with employment rules and tax obligations pertinent to Durham and North Carolina.
- For comprehensive federal labor regulations, visit the Federal website for labor laws and regulations.
- The state-specific labor laws for North Carolina can be found on the State of North Carolina's Department of Labor website.
- Local employment conditions and resources are available through the City of Durham's official website.