Baker Salary in Lakewood, CO
Bakers in Lakewood, CO, in 2025, earn approximately $15.75 per hour, which translates to about $630.00 per week, $2,730.00 per month, and $32,760.00 per year.
The demand for Bakers in Lakewood is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting positive job growth and expanding opportunities in the local baking and foodservice industry.
How Much Does a Baker Make in Lakewood, CO?
The salary of a Baker in Lakewood can differ based on experience, skills, and employer, but here is an overview across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.81 | $592.40 | $2,561.87 | $30,742.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.75 | $630.00 | $2,730.00 | $32,760.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $18.51 | $740.40 | $3,198.80 | $38,500.80 |
Do Bakers in Lakewood Earn Tips?
Bakers generally do not earn tips since their work happens behind the scenes, focused on preparing baked goods rather than interacting directly with customers. Therefore, their earnings are typically based solely on their hourly wage or salary.
Baker Salary in Lakewood vs. National Average
Nationally, Bakers earn an average of around $16.76 per hour, which amounts to roughly $34,860.80 per year.
Comparing this with Lakewood, Bakers earn a bit less on average with $15.75 per hour and $32,760.00 annually.
This difference may be influenced by cost of living factors, local demand, and market conditions within the Lakewood area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Lakewood for Bakers
Nearby areas offer higher salaries for Bakers compared to Lakewood:
- Denver: $20.54 per hour
- Longmont: $19.48 per hour
Bakers may find better wages in Denver or Longmont, which can be attractive for those willing to commute.
What Influences a Baker’s Salary in Lakewood?
Several factors impact the salary of Bakers in Lakewood:
- Experience and Expertise: More experienced Bakers or those with specialized skills like artisan or pastry baking tend to earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale bakeries, hotels, or specialty pastry shops often yields better pay than in chain or fast-food bakeries.
- Certifications: Holding credentials such as the Certified Journey Baker (CJB) or ServSafe Food Handler Certification can boost pay and job opportunities.
- Work Schedule: Shift differentials for early morning or night shifts may affect earnings.
- Local Economy: Market demand and living costs in Lakewood shape wage levels for Bakers.
How To Become a Baker in Lakewood
To pursue a career as a Baker in Lakewood, consider the following steps:
- Complete Professional Training: Programs such as the Baking and Pastry Arts program at Emily Griffith Technical College in Denver or the Baking and Pastry program at Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts in Boulder provide valuable hands-on skills.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: Earning the ServSafe Food Handler Certification is often required and shows competency in food safety practices.
- Gain Practical Experience: Starting in entry-level bakery positions or apprenticeships aids skill development.
- Earn Industry Certification: The Certified Journey Baker (CJB) credential validates professional-level baking proficiency.
Top Employers Hiring Bakers in Lakewood
Several well-known employers in Lakewood seek skilled Bakers, including:
- Panera Bread
- Village Roaster
- Einstein Bros Bagels
Establishments That Bakers in Lakewood Work At
Bakers in Lakewood are employed in a variety of settings such as:
- Casual and Fast Casual Bakeries: These locations typically offer consistent hours but moderate wages.
- Specialty and Artisan Bakeries: These tend to pay higher wages due to skill requirements and product quality.
- Grocery Stores and Supermarkets: Often focused on volume production and may offer steadier employment but lower pay on average.
- Hotels and Catering Companies: These can provide better pay and benefits along with advancement opportunities.
The type of establishment can significantly affect the salary range, with specialty bakeries generally offering the most favorable compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Lakewood for Bakers
If you are exploring roles similar to Bakers, here are several related hospitality positions you might consider:
These include Pastry Chef, Pastry Cook, and Chef roles, featuring related culinary skills and varying salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bakers in Lakewood
Bakers should stay informed about labor laws and tax regulations to protect their rights and understand their obligations.
- For federal labor regulations, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- State-specific labor laws and resources can be found at the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment website.