Baker Salary in Raleigh, NC
Bakers in Raleigh, NC, in 2025, earn approximately $15.11 per hour, which translates to about $604.40 per week, $2,619.07 per month, and $31,428.80 per year.
The demand for Bakers in Raleigh is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook for job opportunities and an expanding industry in the region.
How Much Does a Baker Make in Raleigh, NC?
The salary of a Baker in Raleigh varies across experience levels as outlined below, providing a snapshot of earning potential at different stages in the career.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.44 | $497.60 | $2,147.87 | $25,971.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.11 | $604.40 | $2,619.07 | $31,428.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $18.36 | $734.40 | $3,175.73 | $38,214.40 |
Do Bakers in Raleigh Earn Tips?
Bakers typically do not earn tips as their duties primarily involve food preparation rather than direct customer interaction. Their compensation mainly consists of hourly wages or salary.
Baker Salary in Raleigh vs. National Average
Nationally, Bakers earn an average of about $15.11 per hour or $31,428.80 per year.
Interestingly, Bakers in Raleigh earn the same hourly and annual wage on average, reflecting consistency with the national figures.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Raleigh for Bakers
Nearby cities offer slightly different wages for Bakers, detailed as follows:
- Durham: $15.54 per hour
- Cary: $15.34 per hour
Bakers seeking higher pay might consider opportunities in Durham or Cary, although Raleigh remains a competitive market.
What Influences a Baker’s Salary in Raleigh?
Several factors influence how much a Baker can earn in Raleigh:
- Experience and Skill Level: Bakers with more years of experience and advanced skills in pastry or specialized baking often command higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale bakeries, hotels, or specialty shops usually offers better pay compared to supermarkets or casual eateries.
- Certifications: Professional certifications such as the Certified Baker (CB) or ServSafe Food Handler Certification may enhance job prospects and salary.
- Working Hours and Shifts: Early morning or late-night shifts might include shift differentials that increase overall earnings.
- Local Market Demand: Raleigh's growing food scene can impact wage levels depending on competition and industry growth.
How To Become a Baker in Raleigh
To pursue a career as a Baker in Raleigh, consider the following steps:
- Complete a Culinary Program: Wake Technical Community College offers a Culinary Arts Program with hands-on baking and pastry arts training, preparing students for bakery careers.
- Enroll in a Baking & Pastry Program: Johnson & Wales University Charlotte Campus provides a comprehensive Baking & Pastry Arts program nearby, focusing on both baking science and craft.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification are often required by employers to ensure knowledge of safety and sanitation standards.
- Gain Industry Certifications: The Certified Baker (CB) designation by the Retail Bakers of America is a respected credential that validates expertise and can aid career advancement.
Top Employers Hiring Bakers in Raleigh
Some of the leading employers looking for Bakers in Raleigh include:
- Trinity Services Group, Inc.
- Aladdin Campus Dining
- Thompson Hospitality
- Harris Teeter
- Panera Bread
Establishments That Bakers in Raleigh Work At
Bakers in Raleigh typically work in various types of establishments:
- Artisan Bakeries: These usually offer higher wages due to the craftsmanship and specialty products involved.
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: May employ bakers for fresh breads and desserts with moderate salaries.
- Supermarkets and Grocery Stores: Often have in-house bakeries where pay can be steady but slightly lower compared to specialty shops.
- Hotels and Catering Services: Can provide competitive wages alongside benefits and advancement opportunities.
The type of establishment has a notable impact on a Baker’s salary, with artisan and upscale venues generally offering the best pay.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Raleigh for Bakers
If you are exploring careers related to baking, you might consider positions that engage similar skills and responsibilities.
These include Pastry Chef, Pastry Cook, and Chef roles, which require overlapping culinary expertise and may offer different salary prospects.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bakers in Raleigh
Bakers in Raleigh should familiarize themselves with relevant labor laws and tax regulations to ensure compliance and understanding of their rights and obligations.
- You can review federal labor laws at the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For state-specific workplace regulations and safety information, visit the North Carolina Department of Labor's official site.
- Local business and employment resources are available at the City of Raleigh’s official website.