Baker Salary in Memphis, TN
Bakers in Memphis, TN, in 2025, earn approximately $14.80 per hour, which translates to about $592.00 per week, $2,565.33 per month, and $30,784.00 per year.
The demand for bakers in Memphis is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive job outlook and expanding opportunities in the bakery industry.
How Much Does a Baker Make in Memphis, TN?
The salary of a Baker in Memphis varies based on experience and skill level. Here's an overview of hourly, weekly, monthly, and yearly pay ranges for different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.74 | $509.60 | $2,203.73 | $26,444.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.80 | $592.00 | $2,565.33 | $30,784.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.19 | $687.60 | $2,968.40 | $35,755.20 |
Do Bakers in Memphis Earn Tips?
Bakers generally do not earn tips since their work involves preparation behind the scenes, rather than direct customer service. Earnings typically come solely from wages or salary.
Baker Salary in Memphis vs. National Average
Nationally, Bakers earn about $17.00 per hour, which amounts to roughly $35,360 annually.
Compared to this, Bakers in Memphis make less on average, earning around $14.80 per hour and $30,784 per year.
This difference can be due to regional cost of living, demand, and local industry specifics.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Memphis for Bakers
Nearby areas with higher average pay for Bakers include:
- East Memphis: $16.00 per hour
- Downtown Memphis: $15.50 per hour
These areas tend to offer slightly better compensation, likely reflecting location-specific demand or establishment types.
What Influences a Baker’s Salary in Memphis?
A Baker’s salary in Memphis can be influenced by various factors:
- Experience: More experienced Bakers, particularly those skilled in specialty or artisan products, often earn higher wages.
- Skills and Certifications: Holding certifications like the Certified Pastry Culinarian (CPC) can enhance earning potential.
- Type of Establishment: High-end bakeries or hotels may pay better than grocery store bakeries or casual eateries.
- Shift Hours: Early morning or late shifts may come with shift differentials adding to base pay.
- Local Demand: Areas with greater demand for baked goods and specialty items often offer increased wages.
How To Become a Baker in Memphis
To pursue a career as a Baker in Memphis, consider the following steps:
- Formal Culinary Education: Programs such as the Southwest Tennessee Community College Culinary Arts Program provide a solid foundation in baking and pastry arts.
- Specialized Training: Schools like L'Ecole Culinaire Memphis offer focused training on both traditional and modern baking techniques.
- Food Safety Certification: Obtaining the ServSafe Food Handler Certification is often required and essential for food service roles.
- Professional Certifications: The Certified Pastry Culinarian (CPC) credential from the American Culinary Federation can validate skills and increase employability.
- Work Experience: Entry-level positions or apprenticeships help build practical skills and industry connections.
Top Employers Hiring Bakers in Memphis
Some of the prominent employers seeking Bakers in Memphis include:
- The Fresh Market
- Bain Barbecue and Bakery
- Nothing Bundt Cakes
Establishments That Bakers in Memphis Work At
Bakers in Memphis typically work in a variety of establishments:
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: These often have moderate pay but greater availability of positions.
- Specialty Bakeries: Offering artisan or specialty baked goods, these establishments tend to provide higher salaries due to specialized skills.
- Supermarkets and Grocery Chains: Large-scale baking operations in supermarkets provide steady work, though usually lower pay compared to specialty shops.
- Hotels and Catering Services: These employers may offer competitive wages and benefits tied to scale and event-based demand.
The type of establishment can significantly affect salary, with specialty bakeries and hotels generally offering higher earnings.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Memphis for Bakers
If you are interested in careers related to baking, here are some similar hospitality roles you might consider exploring:
These include Pastry Chef, Pastry Cook, and Chef, which share culinary skills and have diverse salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bakers in Memphis
Understanding labor laws and tax obligations is important for Bakers in Memphis.
- For state-specific regulations, visit the State of Tennessee's workforce website offering employment resources and labor law information.
- For federal labor standards, the U.S. Department of Labor website provides comprehensive guidance on worker rights and occupational regulations.