Baker Salary in Hackensack, NJ
Bakers in Hackensack, NJ, in 2025, earn approximately $19.04 per hour, which translates to about $761.60 per week, $3,300.27 per month, and $39,603.20 per year.
The demand for Bakers in Hackensack is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a healthy job market and increasing opportunities in the baking industry within the region.
How Much Does a Baker Make in Hackensack, NJ?
The salary of a Baker in Hackensack varies depending on experience and the employer. Here's a breakdown based on different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $13.17 | $526.80 | $2,279.20 | $27,345.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $19.04 | $761.60 | $3,300.27 | $39,603.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $24.91 | $996.40 | $4,301.07 | $51,832.80 |
Do Bakers in Hackensack Earn Tips?
Bakers generally do not earn tips since their work is typically focused on production in the kitchen rather than direct customer service. Their earnings primarily come from wages or salaries.
Baker Salary in Hackensack vs. National Average
Nationally, Bakers earn an average of about $16.80 per hour, or approximately $34,944 per year.
Compared to the national average, Bakers in Hackensack earn a higher hourly wage of $19.04 per hour and an annual salary of around $39,603.20. This difference likely reflects the local cost of living and market demand for baking professionals.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Hackensack for Bakers
Nearby areas offer slightly different pay scales for Bakers:
- Downtown Hackensack: $20.50 per hour
- Fairmount: $21.00 per hour
Bakers working in Fairmount tend to have the highest hourly wages in the vicinity, making it a location worth considering for job seekers.
What Influences a Baker’s Salary in Hackensack?
Several factors help determine how much a Baker can earn in Hackensack:
- Experience and Skills: Those with more years of experience or specialized baking skills, such as artisan bread or pastry making, often earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Bakers employed in upscale bakeries, specialty shops, or restaurants tend to have better compensation compared to those in grocery store bakeries or fast casual outlets.
- Educational Background and Certifications: Completing training programs or earning certifications can significantly increase salary potential.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Bakers working early morning or overnight shifts might receive additional pay through shift differentials.
- Local Demand and Cost of Living: Hackensack’s growing population and cost structure influence wage levels.
How To Become a Baker in Hackensack
Starting a career as a Baker in Hackensack involves several important steps.
- Enroll in Culinary or Baking Programs: Institutions like Bergen Community College Culinary Arts Program and Hudson County Community College Baking and Pastry Arts Program provide comprehensive hands-on training in baking techniques and pastry preparation.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Earning credentials such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification is often required by employers and ensures compliance with safety standards.
- Consider Professional Certifications: The Certified Journey Baker (CJB) certification from Retail Bakers of America validates baking expertise and can improve job prospects.
- Gain Practical Experience: Starting in entry-level kitchen roles or apprenticeships helps develop skills and improve chances of advancement.
Top Employers Hiring Bakers in Hackensack
Several well-known companies are actively hiring Bakers in Hackensack, including:
- Panera Bread
- Whole Foods Market
- ShopRite
Establishments That Bakers in Hackensack Work At
Bakers in Hackensack typically find roles in various types of food establishments:
- Specialty Bakeries: Offering higher pay for skilled baking of artisan breads and pastries.
- Casual Dining and Fast Casual Restaurants: Often have moderate salaries but offer steady work and growth opportunities.
- Supermarkets and Grocery Stores: Large chains like ShopRite employ bakers for bulk production with consistent work schedules.
- Hotels and Catering Services: These offer competitive pay and potential benefits for experienced bakers.
The type of establishment can significantly impact a Baker’s salary, with specialty bakeries and upscale venues usually providing the best compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Hackensack for Bakers
If you're considering other culinary roles similar to Baker, consider these positions:
These related professions include Pastry Chef, Pastry Cook, and Chef, each with overlapping skills and different salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bakers in Hackensack
Bakers working in Hackensack should be aware of the federal, state, and local labor laws and tax requirements that impact their employment.
- Visit the Federal website for labor laws and regulations for comprehensive information.
- For state-specific rules, the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development website provides guidelines.
- The Official website of the City of Hackensack offers local regulations and resources relevant to workers.