Baker Salary in Newport News, VA
Bakers in Newport News, VA, in 2025, earn approximately $16.23 per hour, which translates to about $649.20 per week, $2,813.20 per month, and $33,758.40 per year.
The demand for Bakers in Newport News is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a healthy job market with increasing opportunities for baking professionals in the region.
How Much Does a Baker Make in Newport News, VA?
The salary of a Baker in Newport News can vary depending on experience and specific employers. Here's an overview of salary levels across different experience tiers.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.65 | $506.00 | $2,191.33 | $26,280.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.23 | $649.20 | $2,813.20 | $33,758.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.82 | $832.80 | $3,592.80 | $43,305.60 |
Do Bakers in Newport News Earn Tips?
Bakers generally do not earn tips since their work is mostly behind the scenes preparing baked goods rather than direct customer service. Their income is typically based solely on their wages or salary.
Baker Salary in Newport News vs. National Average
Nationally, Bakers earn an average of around $16.23 per hour, which amounts to about $33,758.40 annually.
In comparison, Bakers in Newport News meet the national average with an average hourly wage of $16.23 and an annual salary of $33,758.40.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Newport News for Bakers
Nearby cities offer varying pay for Bakers, with some areas providing higher income opportunities:
- Vienna, VA: $20.98 per hour
- Chesapeake, VA: $17.89 per hour
Bakers commuting or relocating to Vienna could expect significantly higher hourly wages than those in Newport News, while Chesapeake offers a moderate increase over the local pay.
What Influences a Baker’s Salary in Newport News?
Several key factors influence the salary of a Baker in Newport News:
- Experience and Skill Level: Bakers with more experience and specialized skills like pastry arts often command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Employment in upscale bakeries, specialty pastry shops, or large-scale commercial bakeries can result in better pay compared to smaller or chain bakery settings.
- Certifications and Education: Obtaining baking certifications and culinary education increases earning potential.
- Shift Hours: Night or early morning shifts involving preparation can sometimes come with shift differentials.
- Local Cost of Living: Though Newport News has moderate living costs, local economic factors can affect salary rates.
How To Become a Baker in Newport News
Starting a career as a Baker in Newport News involves several important steps to develop skills and credentials.
- Enroll in Culinary Programs: Institutions like the Culinary Institute of Virginia offer Baking and Pastry Arts programs focusing on practical baking skills and kitchen management.
- Consider Local Community Colleges: Tidewater Community College provides culinary arts courses covering baking fundamentals, pastry arts, and food safety.
- Obtain Certifications: Certifications such as the Certified Baker (CB) by Retail Bakers of America require work experience and sanitation coursework. Additionally, obtaining the ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensures compliance with essential food safety standards.
- Gain Hands-On Experience: Apprenticeships and entry-level roles help develop baking skills and improve employability.
Top Employers Hiring Bakers in Newport News
Several employers in Newport News are actively hiring Bakers, including:
- Whole Foods Market
- Nothing Bundt Cakes
- Sam's Club
Establishments That Bakers in Newport News Work At
Bakers in Newport News find employment across a wide array of establishments:
- Artisan and Specialty Bakeries: These establishments often provide higher salaries due to the skilled craftsmanship involved.
- Casual and Fast-Casual Restaurants: Bakers may work to supply baked goods, usually with moderate pay.
- Supermarkets and Grocery Stores: These employ bakers for large-scale production; salaries may be stable but more modest.
- Hotels and Catering Companies: Bakers working here can expect better wages along with potential benefits.
The level of specialization and quality demanded by the establishment usually influences the salary offered to Bakers.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Newport News for Bakers
If you are looking at careers related to baking, here are some similar roles you might consider:
These include Pastry Chef, Pastry Cook, and Chef roles, all of which involve related culinary skills and can offer varying salary levels.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bakers in Newport News
Understanding labor laws and tax obligations is essential for Bakers in Newport News to ensure compliance and proper financial planning.
- For state-specific information, visit the Virginia government website, which provides detailed resources about labor laws and employment.
- The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics site offers comprehensive labor statistics and job outlook data.
- Federal labor law information is available at the U.S. Department of Labor website.