Baker Salary in Skokie, IL
Bakers in Skokie, IL, in 2025, earn approximately $18.48 per hour, which translates to about $739.20 per week, $3,203.20 per month, and $38,438.40 per year.
The demand for Bakers in Skokie is growing positively at around 4% per year, indicating a stable increase in opportunities in the baking industry within this area.
How Much Does a Baker Make in Skokie, IL?
The salary of a Baker in Skokie varies depending on experience and employer, but generally follows this scale:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.20 | $648.00 | $2,808.00 | $33,696.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.48 | $739.20 | $3,203.20 | $38,438.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $22.54 | $901.60 | $3,908.53 | $46,883.20 |
Do Bakers in Skokie, IL Earn Tips?
Bakers generally do not earn tips because their role is primarily behind the scenes. Their compensation is mostly from a regular wage or salary rather than gratuities.
Baker Salary in Skokie, IL vs. National Average
Nationally, Bakers earn around $17.44 per hour and approximately $36,275.20 per year.
Comparatively, Bakers in Skokie earn a higher average wage of $18.48 per hour and $38,438.40 annually, which is above the national average reflecting local market demands and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Skokie for Bakers
Nearby locations offer slightly different pay for Bakers:
- Downtown Skokie: $19.00 per hour
- Old Orchard: $18.75 per hour
Working closer to downtown Skokie can offer higher earning potential for Bakers compared to other nearby neighborhoods.
What Influences a Baker’s Salary in Skokie, IL?
Several factors influence how much a Baker can earn in Skokie:
- Experience and Skills: Bakers with extensive experience and skills in artisan techniques or pastry arts typically command higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Working in high-end bakeries, restaurants, or specialty pastry shops generally offers better salaries than grocery store bakeries.
- Certifications and Training: Holding certifications or completing professional baking programs can enhance salary prospects.
- Shift Timing: Early morning or late-night shifts may include additional pay.
- Local Economic Conditions: Skokie’s cost of living and demand for quality baked goods influence wage levels.
How To Become a Baker in Skokie, IL
To pursue a career as a Baker in Skokie, one can follow these steps:
- Complete Education and Training: Enroll in reputable programs such as Kendall College Baking and Pastry Program or the Chicago Culinary Institute Pastry Arts Program to gain foundational and advanced baking skills.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: Earn credentials like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification to demonstrate knowledge of food safety practices.
- Earning Professional Credentials: Consider certifications like the Certified Pastry Culinarian (CPC) from the American Culinary Federation to validate pastry expertise.
- Gain Hands-On Experience: Start with apprenticeships or entry-level bakery roles to build practical skills and industry connections.
Top Employers Hiring Bakers in Skokie, IL
The following employers actively seek skilled Bakers in Skokie:
- Whole Foods Market
- The Cheesecake Factory
- Nothing Bundt Cakes
Establishments That Bakers in Skokie, IL Work At
Bakers in Skokie commonly work at diverse establishments such as:
- Specialty Bakeries and Artisan Shops: These places often pay higher wages due to craftsmanship and product quality demands.
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: Typically offer moderate pay; salary may vary depending on the restaurant's size and prestige.
- Supermarkets and Grocery Stores: Often hire bakers for large-scale production with steady but moderate pay.
- Hotel and Catering Companies: Usually provide better pay and potential benefits reflecting larger organizational scale.
The type and reputation of the establishment significantly impact the earning potential for Bakers.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Skokie, IL for Bakers
If you are interested in roles related to baking, consider the following similar careers:
This includes Pastry Chef, Pastry Cook, and Banquet Chef positions, all of which involve strong culinary skills and may provide different salary ranges and career paths.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bakers in Skokie, IL
Bakers in Skokie should understand the local, state, and federal labor laws and tax requirements to protect their rights and manage finances properly.
- Federal labor regulations can be explored at the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For Illinois-specific employment laws and services, visit the Illinois Department of Employment Security.
- Local regulations pertinent to Skokie are available on the Village of Skokie official site.