Baker Salary in Missoula, MT
Bakers in Missoula, MT, in 2025, earn approximately $16.06 per hour, which translates to about $642.40 per week, $2,783.73 per month, and $33,404.80 per year.
The demand for Bakers in Missoula is growing positively at about 5% per year, indicating an improving job market for skilled baking professionals in the area.
How Much Does a Baker Make in Missoula, MT?
The salary of a Baker in Missoula varies based on experience, skills, and the type of employer. Here's a breakdown across different experience levels:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $13.47 | $538.80 | $2,331.20 | $27,993.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.06 | $642.40 | $2,783.73 | $33,404.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $23.14 | $925.60 | $4,001.07 | $48,012.80 |
Do Bakers in Missoula Earn Tips?
Bakers generally do not earn tips since their work tends to be behind the scenes rather than direct customer interaction. Their income typically comes from wages and salaries alone.
Baker Salary in Missoula vs. National Average
Nationally, Bakers earn an average of approximately $16.80 per hour and about $34,944 per year.
Compared to the national average, Bakers in Missoula earn slightly less hourly at $16.06 per hour and yearly earnings of about $33,404.80. This difference might reflect local economic factors and cost of living in the Missoula area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Missoula for Bakers
Nearby areas offer varying pay rates for Bakers, reflecting local demand and establishment types:
- Downtown Missoula: $17.50 per hour
- University District: $18.00 per hour
Working in the University District may offer the best pay among these locales, likely due to the presence of a diverse population and specialized food service establishments.
What Influences a Baker’s Salary in Missoula?
Several factors influence the salary potential of a Baker in Missoula:
- Experience and Skill Level: Bakers with more years of experience or specialization in pastry arts typically command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale bakeries, cafes, and hotels may offer better pay compared to standard grocery store bakeries or casual dining outlets.
- Certifications: Holding credentials such as the Certified Baker (CB) by the Retail Bakers of America can positively affect earning potential.
- Work Schedule: Bakers working early mornings or overnight shifts might earn shift premiums.
How To Become a Baker in Missoula
Becoming a successful Baker in Missoula involves several steps to build skills and qualifications:
- Complete Baking Education: Programs like Missoula College Culinary Arts Program provide hands-on training and theoretical knowledge in baking and pastry arts.
- Participate in Community Workshops: Local opportunities such as The Good Food Store Baking Workshops offer practical experience in various baking techniques.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: Certifications like ServSafe Food Handler Certification are important and often required by employers to ensure proper food handling and sanitation.
- Earn Professional Baking Certification: The Certified Baker (CB) credential by the Retail Bakers of America demonstrates professional competence and enhances job prospects.
Top Employers Hiring Bakers in Missoula
If you're looking for opportunities as a Baker in Missoula, consider these top employers:
- Albertsons Companies
- Panera Bread
- Good Food Store
- Bernice's Bakery
Establishments That Bakers in Missoula Work At
Bakers in Missoula typically gain employment at a variety of venues including:
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: These establishments often require bakers for breads, pastries, and daily fresh goods. Pay may be moderate.
- Specialty Bakeries and Artisan Shops: Offer more specialized baking tasks, which often come with higher wages due to skill requirements.
- Supermarkets and Grocery Stores: Large chains employ bakers for bulk bread production; wages can vary but are generally steady.
- Hotels and Catering Companies: Provide opportunities for larger-scale baking and pastry work with possible benefits and higher pay scales.
The type and scale of the establishment significantly influence the salary and advancement opportunities for Bakers.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Missoula for Bakers
Those interested in baking might explore several related hospitality careers that require similar culinary skills and offer various salary ranges.
These include Pastry Chef, Pastry Cook, and Chef roles, each of which builds on culinary expertise similar to baking.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bakers in Missoula
Bakers should stay informed about labor laws and tax regulations applicable locally and federally to protect their rights and manage earnings.
- Visit the Federal website for labor laws and regulations for comprehensive U.S. labor rules.
- Check the Montana Department of Labor and Industry site for state-specific labor information.
- Consult the Local government site for Missoula County for additional regulations and employment resources.