Baker Salary in Lincoln, NE
Bakers in Lincoln, NE, in 2026, earn approximately $15.60 per hour, which translates to about $624.00 per week, $2,704.00 per month, and $32,448.00 per year.
The demand for Bakers in Lincoln is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive job outlook that indicates expanding opportunities and market growth for baking professionals in the area.
How Much Does a Baker Make in Lincoln, NE?
The salary of a Baker in Lincoln depends on experience level and specific employer, but the following table presents typical pay ranges.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $13.40 | $536.00 | $2,322.67 | $27,880.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.60 | $624.00 | $2,704.00 | $32,448.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $18.30 | $732.00 | $3,161.33 | $37,968.00 |
Do Bakers in Lincoln, NE Earn Tips?
Bakers generally do not earn tips as their work is primarily behind the scenes with little direct customer interaction. Their earnings mainly consist of wages or salary.
Baker Salary in Lincoln vs. National Average
Nationally, Bakers earn about $16.64 per hour and $34,611.20 annually.
Comparing this, Bakers in Lincoln earn slightly less hourly at $15.60 per hour and slightly below the annual average at $32,448.00.
This variance may reflect local living costs and the specific demand dynamics of Lincoln's baking industry.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Lincoln for Bakers
Nearby areas offer these hourly pay rates for Bakers:
- Downtown Lincoln: $16.50 per hour
- Haymarket District: $17.00 per hour
Bakers working in Haymarket District enjoy the highest wages nearby, making it a desirable location for those focused on maximizing earnings.
What Influences a Baker’s Salary in Lincoln?
Several factors affect how much a Baker can earn in Lincoln:
- Experience and Skill Level: Skilled Bakers with experience in artisan or specialty breads and pastries tend to command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale bakeries or businesses specializing in gourmet products usually pay more than chain stores or fast-casual bakeries.
- Certifications and Education: Holding certifications such as Certified Baker (CB) or completing relevant culinary programs can increase earning potential.
- Shift Timing and Work Hours: Early morning or overnight shifts might offer higher pay rates due to their less desirable times.
- Local Economy and Demand: The overall growth in Lincoln's food service industry contributes to steady opportunities and wage increases.
How To Become a Baker in Lincoln
To build a career as a Baker in Lincoln, consider these steps:
- Culinary Training: Enroll in programs like the Southeast Community College Culinary Program, which offers comprehensive baking and pastry arts training.
- Higher Education: The University of Nebraska-Lincoln Food Science and Technology program provides specialized courses in baking and fermentation sciences.
- Certifications: Obtaining credentials such as the Certified Baker (CB) by the Retail Bakers of America demonstrates professional baking competence.
- Food Safety Knowledge: Serving your employer well includes getting the ServSafe Food Handler Certification, critical for food safety compliance.
- Gain Practical Experience: Starting with baking assistant roles or apprenticeships helps develop hands-on skills.
Top Employers Hiring Bakers in Lincoln
Several well-known companies in Lincoln often seek skilled Bakers:
- B&R Stores, Inc.
- Hy-Vee, Inc.
- Nothing Bundt Cakes
- LaMar's Donuts
Establishments That Bakers in Lincoln Work At
Bakers in Lincoln are employed in a variety of establishments, including:
- Casual and Fast Casual Bakeries: Often the entry point for many Bakers, pay can be modest but with room for growth.
- Specialty and Artisan Bakeries: These establishments usually value advanced skills and offer higher salaries.
- Grocery Stores and Supermarkets: Bakers here may have steady hours with competitive pay but less opportunity for creative baking.
- Hotels and Catering Companies: Work settings where Bakers may earn more due to volume and event-specific demands.
The type of establishment greatly impacts Bakers’ salary, with specialty bakeries and hotels generally providing better earning opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Lincoln for Bakers
For those interested in careers related to baking, here are some similar positions worth considering:
These include Pastry Chef, Pastry Cook, and Chef roles that share skills and experience with Bakers but may have different responsibilities and salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bakers in Lincoln
Bakers working in Lincoln should be aware of local labor laws and tax obligations to ensure proper employment conditions and financial compliance.
- Check the State of Nebraska Department of Labor website for information about Nebraska labor laws including wage standards and employment rights.
- For wider federal employment and wage data, visit the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics website.