Baker Salary in Lafayette, LA
Bakers in Lafayette, LA, in 2026, earn approximately $11.41 per hour, which translates to about $456.40 per week, $1,977.73 per month, and $23,732.80 per year.
The demand for Bakers in Lafayette is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for job growth in this field within the region.
How Much Does a Baker Make in Lafayette, LA?
The salary of a Baker in Lafayette can vary depending on experience and the specific employer, but below is a general breakdown by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $8.80 | $352.00 | $1,521.33 | $18,304.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $11.41 | $456.40 | $1,977.73 | $23,732.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $14.78 | $591.20 | $2,547.47 | $30,758.40 |
Do Bakers in Lafayette, LA Earn Tips?
Bakers generally do not earn tips as their work typically involves preparation behind the scenes without direct customer interaction. Their earnings usually consist only of wages or salary.
Baker Salary in Lafayette, LA vs. National Average
Nationally, Bakers earn an average of about $16.80 per hour, which comes to roughly $34,944 annually.
Compared to this, Bakers in Lafayette earn less, at around $11.41 per hour and $23,732.80 annually. This discrepancy may be influenced by local cost of living and demand factors.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Lafayette for Bakers
Nearby areas that offer slightly higher pay for Bakers include:
- Downtown Lafayette: $12.50 per hour
- River Ranch: $13.00 per hour
These areas tend to offer better wages than the broader Lafayette area, reflecting localized demand and employer types.
What Influences a Baker’s Salary in Lafayette?
Several factors impact how much a Baker can earn in Lafayette:
- Experience and Skill Level: Higher skill levels and years of experience typically lead to higher wages, especially for specialty baking techniques.
- Type of Establishment: Bakers working in upscale bakeries or popular franchises may earn more than those at small local shops or grocery stores.
- Certifications: Possessing relevant culinary or baking certifications can increase earning potential.
- Shift Timing and Hours: Early morning or overnight shifts may offer additional compensation.
- Local Economic Conditions: The overall demand for baked goods and economic health of Lafayette influences salaries.
How To Become a Baker in Lafayette, LA
If you're looking to pursue a career as a Baker in Lafayette, here are some steps that can help:
- Enroll in Culinary Education Programs: South Louisiana Community College Culinary Arts Program offers comprehensive training covering baking techniques, pastry arts, and food safety.
- Specialized Baking Training: Acadiana Technical College Baking and Pastry Arts program provides hands-on experience and specialized instruction in commercial baking.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: The ServSafe Food Handler Certification is nationally recognized and often required for Bakers to demonstrate knowledge of safe food practices.
- Gain Baking Credentials: The Certified Baker (CB) designation by Retail Bakers of America showcases professional competence in baking including sanitation and management skills.
Top Employers Hiring Bakers in Lafayette, LA
Some notable employers actively hiring Bakers in Lafayette include:
- Whole Foods Market
- Target
- Crumbl Cookies Franchises
Establishments That Bakers in Lafayette, LA Work At
Bakers in Lafayette typically find work at a variety of establishments such as:
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: These may offer moderate salaries but provide steady employment opportunities.
- Supermarkets and Grocery Stores: Grocery chains often employ bakers for daily production, usually with consistent but average pay scales.
- Specialty Bakeries and Pastry Shops: These establishments often pay higher wages due to the need for creativity and specialized skills.
- Hotels and Catering Services: Bakers working here may earn more thanks to higher-quality product demands and larger volume.
The type of establishment strongly influences salary levels, with specialty bakeries and larger venues typically offering the best compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Lafayette, LA for Bakers
If you are interested in careers closely related to Baker, consider the following alternatives:
These include Pastry Chef, Pastry Cook, and Chef, which share culinary skills and offer varied salary ranges depending on role.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bakers in Lafayette, LA
Understanding labor laws and tax requirements is crucial for Bakers working in Lafayette.
- Visit the Federal website for labor laws and regulations for information on employment standards and workers' rights.
- The Louisiana state website for employment and labor information provides localized guidance on labor laws and worker protections.