Baker Salary in Portland, OR
Bakers in Portland, OR, in 2025, earn approximately $18.89 per hour, which translates to about $755.60 per week, $3,274.27 per month, and $39,291.20 per year.
The job market for Bakers in Portland is showing positive growth with a 5.2% increase, indicating a healthy demand in the local baking and pastry profession.
How Much Does a Baker Make in Portland?
The salary of a Baker in Portland can vary depending on experience and employer, but below is a general overview of earnings based on different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.50 | $620.00 | $2,686.67 | $32,240.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.89 | $755.60 | $3,274.27 | $39,291.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $23.03 | $921.20 | $3,976.53 | $47,865.60 |
Do Bakers in Portland Earn Tips?
Bakers typically do not earn tips as their work often occurs behind the scenes, without direct customer interaction. Their compensation is primarily based on their wages or salary.
Baker Salary in Portland vs. National Average
Nationally, Bakers earn an average hourly wage of about $16.72, which amounts to roughly $34,777.60 annually.
Compared to the national average, Bakers in Portland earn slightly more, with an hourly rate of $18.89 and an annual salary of $39,291.20.
This difference is likely influenced by local demand, cost of living, and bakery culture in the Portland area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Portland for Bakers
When exploring nearby areas, Bakers’ pay rates are as follows:
- Baker City: $28.22 per hour
- Grand Ronde: $20.11 per hour
Baker City offers a notably higher hourly wage than Portland, which could be attractive for Bakers willing to commute or relocate.
What Influences a Baker’s Salary in Portland?
Several factors can impact how much a Baker earns in Portland:
- Experience and Skill Level: Bakers with advanced skills or many years in baking generally command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Specialty bakeries or high-end pastry shops tend to offer better pay than grocery store bakeries or casual food outlets.
- Certifications: Professional certifications can enhance credibility and salary potential.
- Shift Hours: Bakers working early mornings, late shifts, or weekends might receive shift differentials.
- Local Economy: Portland’s culinary reputation and cost of living contribute to moderate wage increases over the national average.
How To Become a Baker in Portland
Launching a career as a Baker in Portland involves several important steps:
- Complete formal culinary or baking programs: Institutions such as Oregon Culinary Institute and Portland Community College offer comprehensive baking and pastry arts programs, providing valuable hands-on experience.
- Obtain food safety certifications: Certifications like ServSafe Food Handler Certification are essential to demonstrate knowledge of health and safety standards, which employers often require.
- Earn professional baking credentials: The Certified Journey Baker (CJB) title offered by the Retail Bakers of America can validate your skills.
- Gain practical experience: Apprenticeships or entry-level positions help develop your craft and prepare for advanced roles.
Top Employers Hiring Bakers in Portland
Some of the prominent employers in Portland looking for skilled Bakers include:
- Fred Meyer
- New Seasons Market
- Grand Central Bakery
Establishments That Bakers in Portland Work At
Bakers in Portland commonly work across a range of establishment types such as:
- Artisan and specialty bakeries: These establishments typically offer higher wages due to the skill required to craft specialty items.
- Casual and fast-casual restaurants: Bakers here may focus on basic bread and pastry production, generally earning moderate salaries.
- Supermarkets and grocery stores: Large chain stores employ Bakers for volume production, often with stable but moderate pay.
- Hotels and catering companies: Such facilities often pay more and may provide benefits and career advancement.
The nature and prestige of the establishment significantly influence the salary levels and growth opportunities for Bakers.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Portland for Bakers
If you are interested in careers similar to baking, consider these related positions:
These include Pastry Chef, Pastry Cook, and Chef, roles which share related culinary skills and different salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bakers in Portland
Bakers should familiarize themselves with applicable labor laws and tax requirements in Oregon to ensure compliance and understand their rights.
- Visit the Official website of the State of Oregon for detailed information on state regulations, worker protections, and labor resources.
- Consult the U.S. Department of Labor's website to understand federal labor laws and guidelines.