Baker Salary in Madison, WI
Bakers in Madison, WI, in 2025, earn approximately $15.94 per hour, which translates to about $637.60 per week, $2,762.93 per month, and $33,155.20 per year.
The demand for Bakers in Madison is growing steadily at about 5.9% per year, reflecting a positive outlook and increasing opportunities in the baking industry in this vibrant Wisconsin city.
How Much Does a Baker Make in Madison, WI?
The salary of a Baker in Madison varies based on experience level and the employer. The following table outlines typical compensation at different stages in a Baker's career.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.14 | $485.60 | $2,092.53 | $25,235.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.94 | $637.60 | $2,762.93 | $33,155.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.93 | $837.20 | $3,616.53 | $43,534.40 |
Do Bakers in Madison Earn Tips?
Bakers generally do not earn tips, as their work primarily happens in the kitchen behind the scenes. Their income is typically based on their hourly wage or salary without additional tipping income.
Baker Salary in Madison vs. National Average
Nationally, Bakers earn an average of about $16.78 per hour, translating to approximately $34,902.40 annually.
Compared to the national average, Bakers in Madison earn slightly less per hour at $15.94, resulting in an annual salary a bit below the national benchmark. This difference may reflect local cost of living and regional market factors.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Madison for Bakers
Nearby cities offer varying pay scales for Bakers, with some paying more than Madison:
- La Crosse: $17.96 per hour
- Waukesha: $16.98 per hour
Bakers commuting or relocating to La Crosse might enjoy a higher hourly wage than in Madison, followed by competitive rates in Waukesha. These differences highlight opportunities in the broader Wisconsin area.
What Influences a Baker’s Salary in Madison?
A Baker’s salary in Madison can be influenced by several important factors:
- Experience and Expertise: Bakers with more years of experience or specialization in artisan breads or pastries typically command higher wages.
- Skills and Certifications: Skills like cake decoration, knowledge of gluten-free baking, or formal baking qualifications can increase earning potential.
- Type of Establishment: Working in high-end bakeries, fine dining restaurants, or specialty shops often pays more than employment at grocery chains or casual eateries.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Bakers working early morning or overnight shifts might receive shift differentials, boosting their overall pay.
- Local Market Conditions: Economic trends, competition, and availability of skilled bakers in Madison affect salary levels.
How To Become a Baker in Madison
Launching a career as a Baker in Madison involves several key steps:
- Enroll in Culinary and Baking Programs: Madison College’s Culinary Arts Program offers courses that include baking and pastry training, giving practical, hands-on experience.
- Study Baking Science and Technology: University of Wisconsin–Madison provides specialized programs focusing on the scientific and technical aspects of baking.
- Earn Food Safety Certifications: Obtaining credentials like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification is often required and strengthens employability.
- Obtain Professional Baking Credentials: The Certified Journey Baker (CJB) certification by the Retail Bakers of America validates core baking skills, enhancing career prospects.
Top Employers Hiring Bakers in Madison
If you are pursuing Baker roles in Madison, these employers are notable in the local job market:
- Williamson Street Grocery Co-op
- Whole Foods Market
- Texas Roadhouse
Establishments That Bakers in Madison Work At
Bakers in Madison work across various types of establishments, including:
- Artisan and Specialty Bakeries: These often provide higher wages due to craftsmanship demands and product quality.
- Casual and Fast-Casual Restaurants: Bakeries within these establishments may offer competitive but generally lower salaries than specialty shops.
- Supermarkets and Grocery Stores: Employing bakers for daily production with steady but moderate pay.
- Catering Companies and Hotels: Larger operations can provide better pay and benefits.
The type of establishment significantly affects salary, with artisan bakeries usually offering the best pay compared to other sectors.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Madison for Bakers
If you are interested in hospitality roles related to baking, consider these similar positions for opportunities to broaden your career:
These include Pastry Chef, Pastry Cook, and Chef roles—each with culinary skill requirements overlapping with Baking.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bakers in Madison
Understanding labor laws and tax requirements is vital for Bakers working in Madison, WI.
- The Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development provides detailed information about state labor laws and employment resources.
- For federal tax information, visit the Internal Revenue Service website.
- The U.S. Department of Labor offers guidance on federal labor laws and regulations applicable to Bakers.