Baker Salary in Joliet, IL
Bakers in Joliet, IL, in 2025, earn approximately $16.50 per hour, which translates to about $660.00 per week, $2,860.00 per month, and $34,320.00 per year.
The demand for Bakers in Joliet is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive job outlook in the baking industry within the region.
How Much Does a Baker Make in Joliet, IL?
The salary of a Baker in Joliet can vary based on experience and employer, but here is a general overview across different experience levels.
| 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) | $16.50 | $660.00 | $2,860.00 | $34,320.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.00 | $800.00 | $3,466.67 | $41,600.00 |
Do Bakers in Joliet Earn Tips?
Bakers generally do not earn tips as their role involves preparing baked goods away from direct customer interaction. Their compensation is primarily based on their set wages or salary.
Baker Salary in Joliet vs. National Average
Nationally, Bakers earn an average of around $17.44 per hour and approximately $36,275.20 per year.
Compared to the national average, Bakers in Joliet earn slightly less with an average hourly rate of $16.50 and an annual salary of $34,320.00.
This difference could be influenced by the local cost of living and the size of the market in Joliet.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Joliet for Bakers
Bakers near Joliet can observe varying salaries based on location, including:
- Downtown Joliet: $17.00 per hour
- Cathedral Area: $16.80 per hour
Those working in Downtown Joliet tend to enjoy slightly higher pay than other nearby areas, offering better opportunities for Bakers looking for higher earnings.
What Influences a Baker’s Salary in Joliet?
The salary for a Baker in Joliet can be influenced by several important factors:
- Experience and Skill Level: Bakers with greater experience and specialized skills such as artisan bread-making or pastry design typically earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Employment at specialty bakeries or upscale restaurants often provides better salaries compared to large chain supermarkets or casual dining outlets.
- Certifications: Holding relevant certifications improves earning potential by demonstrating professionalism and competence.
- Work Schedule: Shift differentials for early morning or late-night shifts may increase overall pay.
- Local Economic Factors: Joliet’s cost of living and labor market demand impact the salary range.
How To Become a Baker in Joliet
Becoming a Baker in Joliet generally involves focused training and certification, alongside practical experience.
- Training Programs: Enroll in specialized programs such as the Joliet Junior College Culinary Arts Program, which offers comprehensive training in baking and pastry arts.
- Specialized Courses: Courses at the Wilton School of Cake Decorating and Confectionery Art can refine skillsets in cake decorating and confectionery arts.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: Qualifying with a ServSafe Food Handler Certification is commonly required by employers to ensure understanding of food safety.
- Professional Credentials: Achieving credentials like the Certified Pastry Culinarian (CPC) credential from the American Culinary Federation can enhance job prospects.
- Gain Work Experience: Apprenticeships or entry-level bakery positions help develop practical skills and build a career.
Top Employers Hiring Bakers in Joliet
Several prominent companies in Joliet are known for employing Bakers:
- Jewel-Osco
- Panera Bread
- Sam's Club
- Crave Cookies
Establishments That Bakers in Joliet Work At
Bakers operate across various settings in Joliet:
- Specialty Bakeries: Tend to pay higher salaries due to the skill and quality involved in production.
- Casual & Fast-Casual Restaurants: Often provide moderate pay, with some offering benefits and advancement.
- Supermarkets & Grocery Stores: Employ Bakers for volume production; wages are typically steady but moderate.
- Hotels & Catering Companies: May offer competitive pay and possibilities for career growth in large-scale food preparation.
The kind of establishment significantly affects a Baker’s salary, with specialized and upscale environments generally offering better financial rewards.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Joliet for Bakers
If you're interested in related roles to Bakers, here are a few similar positions you might consider exploring:
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bakers in Joliet
Bakers working in Joliet should be familiar with labor laws and tax regulations relevant to their profession and location.
- For federal employment regulations, visit the Federal website for labor laws and regulations.
- State-specific employment and security information can be found at the Illinois Department of Employment Security.
- The City of Joliet official website provides local employment resources and business information.