Baker Salary in Grand Rapids, MI
Bakers in Grand Rapids, MI, in 2025, earn approximately $15.80 per hour, which translates to about $632.00 per week, $2,738.67 per month, and $32,864.00 per year.
The demand for Bakers in Grand Rapids is growing at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for individuals pursuing careers in baking in this area.
How Much Does a Baker Make in Grand Rapids, MI?
The salary for a Baker in Grand Rapids varies based on experience and skill level. Below is an overview of typical earnings based on experience.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $13.28 | $531.20 | $2,300.53 | $27,862.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.74 | $669.60 | $2,888.80 | $34,739.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $23.32 | $932.80 | $4,027.73 | $48,505.60 |
Do Bakers in Grand Rapids Earn Tips?
Typically, Bakers do not earn tips as their work is behind the scenes preparing baked goods rather than directly serving customers.
Baker Salary in Grand Rapids vs. National Average
Nationally, Bakers earn an average of around $16.80 per hour, which equates to about $34,944 per year.
Compared to this, Bakers in Grand Rapids earn slightly less than the national average, with an average hourly wage of $15.80 and an annual salary of $32,864. This difference could be influenced by cost of living and local market demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Grand Rapids for Bakers
When looking at nearby areas, the pay for Bakers is:
- Grand Rapids-Wyoming, MI: $16.74 per hour
Bakers working in Grand Rapids-Wyoming may find slightly higher wages than those in other nearby locations.
What Influences a Baker’s Salary in Grand Rapids?
A variety of factors influence the salary of a Baker in Grand Rapids:
- Experience and Skill Level: As Bakers gain experience and specialize in types of baking like pastries or artisan breads, salaries often increase.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale bakeries or specialty shops typically pays more than positions in chain grocery stores or casual dining.
- Educational Background: Formal culinary education or baking certifications can improve salary prospects.
- Working Hours and Shift Differentials: Early morning or night shifts may offer extra pay.
- Local Market Demand: The supply and demand balance in Grand Rapids impacts wages.
How To Become a Baker in Grand Rapids
Becoming a Baker in Grand Rapids involves a combination of education, certification, and hands-on experience.
Consider enrolling in programs like those offered at the Secchia Institute for Culinary Education, which provides comprehensive baking and pastry arts training with practical experience.
Another valuable option is the Baker College of Muskegon, offering a Baking and Pastry Arts program in a modern facility.
Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification are often required, focusing on food safety compliance. Additionally, obtaining the Certified Journey Baker (CJB) credential, offered by the Retail Bakers of America, can validate your baking skills and advance your career.
Hands-on experience gained through apprenticeships or entry-level roles is crucial to building expertise in this field.
Top Employers Hiring Bakers in Grand Rapids
Some of the leading employers in Grand Rapids looking for skilled Bakers include:
- Costco Wholesale Corporation
- Sam's Club
- The Cheesecake Factory
- Terra Bagels
Establishments That Bakers in Grand Rapids Work At
Bakers in Grand Rapids are employed across a variety of establishments such as:
- Artisan Bakeries: These establishments focus on high-quality, often hand-crafted baked goods and typically offer the highest salaries.
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: Some establishments include in-house baking but may offer moderate pay compared to specialty bakeries.
- Supermarkets and Grocery Stores: Often have bakery departments with steady hours and moderate wages.
- Hotels and Catering Companies: Larger catering operations may pay more and offer benefits.
The type and scale of the establishment influence the salary range and opportunities for advancement.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Grand Rapids for Bakers
If you're interested in careers related to Baking, consider exploring these options:
These include roles such as Pastry Chef, Pastry Cook, and Chef, which share culinary skills and can offer different salary ranges and career paths.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bakers in Grand Rapids
Bakers in Grand Rapids should be familiar with local and federal labor laws to ensure compliance and understand their rights and responsibilities.
- Information on Michigan state labor laws can be found on the State of Michigan official website.
- For federal labor regulations and workplace standards, visit the U.S. Department of Labor official website.