Baker Salary in Fayetteville, AR
Bakers in Fayetteville, AR, in 2026, earn approximately $15.28 per hour, which translates to about $611.20 per week, $2,648.53 per month, and $31,782.40 per year.
The demand for Bakers in Fayetteville is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook and increasing opportunities within the local baking industry.
How Much Does a Baker Make in Fayetteville, AR?
The salary of a Baker in Fayetteville varies based on experience, skills, and the type of employer. Here is a breakdown of earnings across different experience levels:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $13.54 | $541.60 | $2,343.73 | $28,123.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.28 | $611.20 | $2,648.53 | $31,782.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.06 | $682.40 | $2,961.07 | $35,460.80 |
Do Bakers in Fayetteville, AR Earn Tips?
Bakers generally do not earn tips as their work is mostly behind the scenes without direct customer interaction. Their compensation usually comes solely from their wages or salary.
Baker Salary in Fayetteville vs. National Average
Nationally, Bakers earn an average of about $16.80 per hour, which amounts to roughly $34,944 per year.
Compared to the national average, Bakers in Fayetteville earn slightly less, at approximately $15.28 per hour and $31,782.40 annually.
This difference may be influenced by cost of living and local market demand factors.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Fayetteville for Bakers
Nearby areas show some variation in Baker salaries:
- Downtown Fayetteville: $16.00 per hour
- Uptown Fayetteville: $15.50 per hour
These neighborhoods offer competitive wages that may exceed the city average slightly, providing more opportunities for higher earnings.
What Influences a Baker’s Salary in Fayetteville?
Several key factors can affect a Baker’s earnings in Fayetteville:
- Experience and Skill Level: Bakers with more experience and expertise in specialty baking techniques generally command higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Working at artisan bakeries or gourmet pastry shops often pays better than fast casual or supermarket bakeries.
- Certifications and Education: Having recognized baking certifications or culinary training can boost salary potential.
- Shift and Work Hours: Certain shifts may offer additional pay, such as early morning or weekend hours.
- Demand and Local Economy: Economic growth and demand for quality baked goods in Fayetteville can influence wages.
How To Become a Baker in Fayetteville, AR
Starting a career as a Baker in Fayetteville involves several important steps to gain skills and credentials:
- Enroll in Culinary Education Programs: Consider programs like the Northwest Arkansas Community College Culinary Arts Program, which offers comprehensive training in baking and pastry arts, preparing students for a professional baking career.
- Specialized Baking Courses: Institutions such as Brightwater: A Center for the Study of Food provide specialized courses focusing on traditional and innovative baking techniques.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: The ServSafe Food Handler Certification is often required, ensuring bakers understand essential food safety protocols.
- Earn Professional Baking Certifications: Credentials like the Certified Baker (CB) by the Retail Bakers of America demonstrate professional competency and enhance job prospects.
- Gain Practical Experience: Hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level bakery work is invaluable for skill development.
Top Employers Hiring Bakers in Fayetteville
Several bakeries in Fayetteville frequently seek skilled Bakers, including:
- Rick's Bakery
- Stone Mill Bread & Flour Company
- Little Bread Company
Establishments That Bakers in Fayetteville Work At
Bakers in Fayetteville find employment across a range of establishments, such as:
- Artisan Bakeries: Known for higher wages due to specialty baking demands and craftsmanship.
- Casual and Fast-Casual Dining: These may offer moderate salaries with opportunities for growth.
- Supermarkets and Grocery Stores: Employ Bakers for volume baking with consistent but often lower salaries.
- Hotels and Catering Companies: Larger operations that may provide better pay and benefits.
The type and prestige of the establishment typically impact the Baker’s salary, with specialty bakeries generally offering the highest earnings.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Fayetteville for Bakers
If you are interested in baking but want to explore related roles in hospitality, consider these:
These related positions include Pastry Chef, Pastry Cook, and Chef, which involve similar culinary skills and offer varying salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bakers in Fayetteville
Bakers should be familiar with labor laws and tax regulations applicable to their work in Fayetteville, AR.
- Federal labor laws and regulations can be reviewed on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For state-specific employment standards and labor laws, visit the Arkansas state government website.
- Local ordinances and business regulations for Fayetteville can be found at the City of Fayetteville official site.