Baker Salary in St. Louis, MO
Bakers in St. Louis, MO, in 2025, earn approximately $16.86 per hour, which translates to about $674.40 per week, $2,922.40 per month, and $35,068.80 per year.
The job demand for Bakers in St. Louis is looking up with a growth rate of 5% per year, indicating a healthy increase in opportunities in the baking sector in this region.
How Much Does a Baker Make in St. Louis, MO?
The salary of a Baker in St. Louis varies depending on experience, but here is an overview of earnings for different levels of expertise.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.47 | $578.80 | $2,503.47 | $30,033.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.86 | $674.40 | $2,922.40 | $35,068.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $19.65 | $786.00 | $3,395.00 | $40,872.00 |
Do Bakers in St. Louis Earn Tips?
Bakers typically do not earn tips as their work is mostly behind the scenes, focused on preparation and baking rather than direct customer interaction. Their income generally comes from wages alone.
Baker Salary in St. Louis vs. National Average
Nationally, Bakers earn an average of about $16.86 per hour or approximately $35,068.80 annually.
Bakers in St. Louis earn roughly the national average, highlighting a consistent pay scale aligned with national trends for this role.
Highest-Paying Areas Near St. Louis for Bakers
Looking at nearby areas, Baker salaries vary as follows:
- Kirkwood: $18.72 per hour
- Kansas City: $17.13 per hour
Bakers working in Kirkwood can expect to earn higher wages compared to those in St. Louis or Kansas City, reflecting differences in local demand and cost of living.
What Influences a Baker’s Salary in St. Louis?
Several factors can impact how much a Baker earns in St. Louis:
- Experience and Skills: More experienced Bakers with skills in artisan bread, specialty pastries, or cake decorating tend to earn more.
- Type of Establishment: Bakers employed by high-end bakeries, hotels, or specialty shops often earn higher salaries compared to those in retail grocery stores or casual dining settings.
- Certifications and Training: Professional certifications such as those from culinary schools or baking programs can significantly boost earning potential.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Bakers working early morning shifts or overtime may receive shift differentials adding to their income.
- Local Market Conditions: Wages can be influenced by the local cost of living and demand for bakery goods in the St. Louis market.
How To Become a Baker in St. Louis
Starting a career as a Baker in St. Louis involves several key steps:
- Enroll in Comprehensive Baking Programs: Institutions like St. Louis Community College's Baking and Pastry Arts Program offer broad training in baking techniques, pastry arts, and food safety that prepare students for the industry.
- Obtain Professional Diplomas: Programs such as L'École Culinaire's Baking and Pastry Arts Diploma provide hands-on experience with classical and modern baking methods, giving aspiring Bakers valuable credentials.
- Earn Food Safety Certifications: Certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification are often required by employers to ensure knowledge of proper food safety practices.
- Gain Industry-Recognized Certification: The Certified Baker (CB) by Retail Bakers of America demonstrates baking professional competence and can improve job prospects and salary.
Top Employers Hiring Bakers in St. Louis
The following are notable employers in St. Louis seeking accomplished Bakers:
- Panera Bread
- Companion Baking
- The Cakery Bakery
Establishments That Bakers in St. Louis Work At
Bakers in St. Louis typically find employment in various types of establishments, such as:
- Artisan and Specialty Bakeries: These offer the highest wages, given the skill and craftsmanship required.
- Fast Casual Restaurants and Cafes: Bakers here earn moderate wages depending on the size and reputation of the establishment.
- Supermarkets and Grocery Chains: These may have larger-scale baking operations with consistent but usually lower salaries.
- Hotels and Catering Services: These establishments often pay more due to the demand for quality baked goods and event catering.
The type of establishment can significantly influence the salary range, with specialty bakeries and hotels usually paying the most.
Related Hospitality Jobs in St. Louis for Bakers
Those interested in careers similar to Baking may consider several related roles that also offer rewarding career paths.
Examples include Pastry Chef, Pastry Cook, and Chef positions which share related culinary skills and may offer different compensation levels.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bakers in St. Louis
Bakers in St. Louis should be aware of relevant labor laws and tax regulations to ensure compliance and understand their workplace rights.
- For federal labor laws, visit the U.S. Department of Labor - Federal labor laws and regulations.
- For Missouri-specific labor laws and employment resources, see the Missouri Department of Labor.
- The City of St. Louis official website provides local government resources and labor information available at City of St. Louis Official Website.